The design for an International Convention Centre in the Nigerian city of Calabar formed part of a design competition. Calabar’s limited infrastructure was an important starting point, as did the social, economic and geographic conditions of the site.
The convention centre needed to be flexible and easy to maintain, and because of the hot, humid conditions it was imperative that the indoor climate be well managed. The design utilises the characteristic hilly landscape by positioning the building within the sloping contours.
A large incision in a green hill accommodates a covered esplanade that runs north to south through the complex. Various smaller incisions in the hill create openings and provide vistas to the surroundings.
Daylight enters the complex through skylights that are scattered in the roof landscape, along with several terraces. The cool temperature of the surrounding earth functions as natural air-conditioning for the whole complex.
The central esplanade doubles as the main entrance and atrium for the convention centre. Various functions and public spaces are distributed along the esplanade, including gardens and public squares for open-air events.
An auditorium, visitor centre, exhibition spaces, meeting rooms, offices, medical facilities and business centre are situated on one side of the esplanade. Cafes, restaurants and shops are located on the other. A loading zone services the convention centre along a straight corridor that runs through the entire complex.