RSHP wins new convention complex project in Zhengzhou, China

We have just revealed the designs for our latest project win in China, the Zhongyuan International Convention Centre (Phase 2), Conference Centre and Hotel competition in Zhengzhou.

RSHP, together with partners Tongji Architectural Design (Group) Co. (TJAD), have been selected to design the next phase of the Zhongyuan International Convention and Conference Centre complex. Developed by the Henan Airport Construction & Development Corporation in Zhengzhou, this project is strategically located within the Zhengzhou Airport Economic Zone (ZAEZ), adjacent to the international airport.

The new development extends to the east and west of an existing park, situated south of the original Convention Centre. Our design comprises three key components: the Phase 2 Convention Centre, a Conference Centre, and a Hotel.

Connectivity and modularity are the starting points of the design, with a 1.7 km-long elevated floor plane or central spine connecting the three main entrances, exhibition halls, Conference Centre and the hotel to create a layout that is interconnected and easily accessible. The design emphasizes pedestrian-friendliness and public realm, with two levels of the central spine creating separated circulation routes for fast and slow pedestrian traffic, splitting the flows for viewing exhibits and other activities such as dining and shopping.

The Convention Centre features sixteen exhibition halls and related facilities, arranged on either side of the central spine. Each standard hall has an approximate net area of 12,500 m², with a clear span of 78.5 m x 161 m on level 1 accommodating a broad spectrum of exhibition and event requirements.

The upper level of the central spine crosses the park via the eastern entrance pavilion, connecting the Convention Centre to the grand Conference Centre and the adjacent hotel. The Conference Centre is primarily enclosed by a spectacular floating roof that rises over the main conference hall, with large cable-net façades providing transparency and clarity to the functionality contained within. 

The lower level of the central spine offers restaurants and public spaces where visitors and exhibitors can eat, relax, and enjoy the architectural splendour of their environment.

The project aims to achieve the China Green Building rating, with plans to install a substantial number of photovoltaic panels on the roof of the entrance pavilion. The incorporation of natural daylight within the exhibition halls, along with the harvesting of rainwater for landscape irrigation, will promote and substantiate the use of passive sustainable systems.

The Phase II Convention Centre covers an area of 925 acres, with a total construction area of 527,000 m2 . The Conference Centre and Hotel complex covers an area of 122 acres, with a total construction area of 200,000 m2 .

Richard Paul, Senior Director and Partner, RSHP, says: "Our design for the Zhongyuan Convention Centre in China combines cutting-edge technology with traditional cultural elements, creating a space that meets the functional needs of large gatherings while standing as a landmark of innovation and state-of-the-art technology. Our goal was to craft an architectural experience that fosters global connections and celebrates local identity, ensuring a transformative experience for all who visit."

The General Administration Department, Henan airport construction development Co., Ltd, says: “The architectural design of the Phase II Convention Centre, the Conference Centre, and the supporting hotel facility is consistent in style with our Phase I Convention Centre. The large, cantilevered wings of canopies and the gable roof of the Conference Centre embody the spirit of Zhongyuan, which is characterized by its inclusiveness. The overall spatial arrangement is simple and elegant, it has an international style, with functional flexibility and iconic features”.