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Edinburgh International Conference Centre

Edinburgh

Project Details

£50M or more

New Build

Practice

*BDP

15 Exchange Place , GLASGOW , Glasgow , G1 3AN , United Kingdom

The Additional Function Space (AFS) enhances the EICC's prominent position in the highly competitive international exhibition and conference market by expanding the capacity and capabilities. The site, adjacent to the existing EICC building, is the last key component of the successful Exchange business district making it one of the most commercially attractive locations in central Edinburgh. As part of the scheme is a large commercial office development constructed above the AFS and entered from Morrison Street providing funding for the additional function space. The bulk of the AFS building is below ground level accessed via a wide connecting route from the existing below ground function space and from above via a new ground floor entrance foyer and registration area, which is the only part of the building which appears above ground. The new foyer gives a distinct and dynamic expression for the new facility as well as providing an independent entrance to satisfy functional and management needs. It can be combined with the existing foyer or remain separate. A gallery café overlooks the main space. It can also provide a unique space for small exhibitions, concerts or dining. From ground floor, stairs, escalators and a scenic lift descend through Level 1 cloakroom and breakout facilities to the multi-purpose hall at Level 2, drawing light to below. The multi-purpose hall is the primary revenue generator. It is a large subterranean and highly flexible function space. It is supported by a series of foyers, break-out rooms, control rooms, catering, stores and a loading bay, each integrating back to back with existing support facilities. A variety of floor configurations and events can be accomplished by the provision of an automated moving floor system allowing exhibition, banqueting, conference, various sports, fashion shows, concerts and other types of event. The speed and flexibility of this system is seen as a unique selling point by the Client. The hall, which is approximately 1600m², can be extended to over 2000m² when the folding sliding screens are activated, additionally it can be subdivided into three smaller halls. The break-out rooms can also be re-configured as single spaces or in conjunction with adjoining break out areas to create larger options.