Convention centers need right design to be viable.

As cities of all sizes look for ways to generate revenues, create jobs and stimulate development, many are turning to new convention centers or expansion of existing ones. According to recent reports, new public capital spending for convention centers has doubled during the past decade, averaging $2.4 billion annually from 2001 to 2003.

A thoughtfully-planned convention center can have a tremendous positive impact on a city or entire region. The most successful of these facilities can create thousands of jobs, spur commercial development and generate much-needed tax revenues.

Design plays 'an increasingly important role in making these huge investments pay off. With so many choices, event planners can afford to be selective in their facility demands, says Donald Grinberg, FAIA, national director of convention center architecture with HNTB Architecture.

"Today's conventions and trade shows are complex operations, requiring a sophisticated facility to accommodate their programs," he notes. "Flexible spaces, accessibility, technology, amenities, excellent food service and quality finishes are no longer just desirable, but essential for a convention center to be competitive."

The new Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, which opened last spring, demonstrates this approach. Designed by the joint venture of HNTB/Rafael Vinoly Architects, the 1.7 million s/f, $850 million BCEC establishes the city as a major competitor for large conventions.

The center greets visitors with its dynamic design, featuring a dramatic curved roof that engages the surrounding skyline. Inside, the 516,000 s/f exhibition hall can be viewed from the main entry lobbies and pedestrian bridges, giving trade show exhibitors more exposure. And all the BCEC's 82 meeting rooms--as well as its 40,000 s/f ballroom--are equipped with the latest technology, including Wi-Fi networks and current audiovisual technologies, to support complex exhibits. In addition to natural light, top-of-the-line materials and tasteful furnishings that reflect regional character, dramatic views of the Boston Harbor complete the experience for visitors.

Multimillion-dollar investment in structures like the BCEC demonstrates their important role in cities' long-term plans. Convention centers are more than just functional facilities, they are anchors for the revitalization of entire neighborhoods. The BCEC, for example, is envisioned as the anchor for the redevelopment of the South Boston Waterfront District. The center is surrounded by more than 27 million s/f of property available for future mixed-use development. An attached hotel is being constructed, and 8,000 residential units, a major retail complex and more than 5,000 additional hotel rooms are planned during the next five years.

From a commercial development perspective, a well-planned and well-designed convention center offers major development opportunities. Hotels, retail outlets and mixed-use spaces enhance the attractiveness of the convention center, which in turn provides a built-in customer base for these developments. With good siting, planning and design, it can be a winning formula for everyone.