Project: International Convention Centre and Theatres
Award: Future Projects - Multi Use, Silver, 2023
Location: Tahiti, French Polynesia
Architect: Zaha Hadid Architects
The International Convention Centre and Theatres will sit on a sloping five-hectare site with panoramic views overlooking the lagoon and its tropical sunsets. It will include two theatres, a 3,500 seat performance hall, two conference rooms and a 4,000 square metre multifunctional exhibition hall. These are directly accessible from a central, stepped park enveloped by vegetation, echoing a traditional Tahitian village. The foyers will be open to the outside and extended by large canopies that provide a close relationship to the external plazas. These canopies create continuous shelter to protect and guide visitors. The timber’s texture and the canopy’s gentle curvature interact with the sunlight and tropical vegetation while framing extraordinary views.
Design highlights
Locally sourced timber and low-carbon concrete, passive design allowing natural ventilation, and rationality of construction results in an efficient design that also accommodates a tight budget. The project serves its community by using local materials and craftsmanship.
Photo credit: Renders by Slashcube
LEAD ARCHITECT: Jim Heverin
ZHA PROJECT LEADS: Marie-Perrine Plaçais, Victor Orive
ZHA PROJECT TEAM: Karthikeyan Arunachalam, Anthony Awanis, Muriel Boselli, Ines Fontoura, Alejandro Garcia Gadea, Marco Guardincerri, Nelly Huang, Peter Irmscher, Man Jia, Mariagrazia Lanza, Nicolas Turchi, Adam Twigger, Angelica Videla, Adrian Yiu, Yuan Zhai
LOCAL ARCHITECT: Tropical Architecture
ENGINEERING: Buro Happold
THEATRE CONSULTANT: Charcoal Blue
LANDSCAPE: Gillespies
LOCAL ENGINEERING: IPSI, Neonergie, Vaihupe
VENUE SPECIALIST: Gaining Edge
COST CONSULTANT: BMF Conseil