Calgary, Canada
Inspired by the Calgary region and its prairies, Populous, S2 Architecture, and Stantec have designed the expansion of the BMO Convention Center, $500 million project, incorporating distinct elements such as the sculpted banks of the Bow and Elbow Rivers, the rolling hills that lead into the Rocky Mountains, and the vibrant spirit of the Calgary Stampede, an annual rodeo held in the city every July.
The new BMO Centre is an innovative convention center featuring futuristic architecture that enhances the guest experience with unprecedented functionalities.
The expansion adds a total of 565,000 square feet, including over 100,000 square feet of new exhibition space, 38 meeting rooms, and two ballrooms totaling 70,000 square feet, along with a grand central gathering area.
The project boasts a composite metal panel roof accentuated by a sweeping 170-foot curved canopy, which extends into the outdoor public space, drawing visitors towards the main entrance and its grand staircase.
The underside of the canopy is decorated with thousands of programmable LED lights.
The building represents the next generation of convention facilities, one that promises best-in-class guest experience, boasts precedent-setting design architecture and serves as a gathering place for convention attendees and the local community alike.
Project: BMO Convention Center Expansion
Architects: Populous, S2 Architecture, and Stantec
Design Team S2 Architecture: Genevieve Giguere and Dave Symons
Client: Calgary Stampede, CMLC
Photographs: Courtesy of CMLC
