The convention center was designed by Peter Eisenman, constructed in 1993, and expanded in 1999. In an attempt to tame the large volume, Eisenman created a series of separate pavilions on the High Street facade, predictably canted at odd angles. These pavilions were intended to echo the rhythm of the brick facades on the opposite side of the street. The metallic colors originally proposed for the pavilions would have lent greater definition, but the pavilions are none-the-less blank.

 

The general plan of the convention center is quite simple and functional. A major circulation spine runs from the parking lot through the complex to a pedestrian bridge which crosses a series of railroad tracks leading to the Hyatt Regency and shopping areas beyond. Most of the meeting rooms and offices are located on the High Street side of the spine, while the opposite side is dominated by the gargantuan exhibit area. This spine extends up to the roof level, with skylights bringing natural light directly into the interior corridor. Balconies overlooking the space from the meeting room side create a series of intersecting viewpoints. These are further enhanced by the level change in the circulation spine; from the connecting bridge over the railroad tracks where one descends a bank of escalators which slowly reveals the complex spatial nature of this central spine.

Home >

Columbus Convention Center

The Greater Columbus Convention Center

400 North High Street — Columbus, Ohio 43215 (614) 827-2500

Greater Columbus Convention CenterGreater Columbus Convention Center is located right in the middle of the vibrant downtown that’s alive with cultural activities, arts, sports and entertainment. Hold your next convention, social event, public show and trade show at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, and discover what so many other people already know: This is a great convention destination. As the winner of multiple Prime Site and Inner Circle Awards, this comfortable, striking facility has become one of North America’s most popular sites for local, state, regional and national groups and organizations. Excited reaction to the new Greater Columbus Convention Center traveled swiftly through the industry when the center opened its doors in 1993. Only five years later, the Greater Columbus Convention Center announced a major expansion and renovation due to overwhelming demand.

Columbus Convention Center Interior- Mail Hall

We should mention that the building is very much worth visiting, since its sheer length, color and unusual angles are in obvious contrast with the surrounding urban environment. The color palette that the architect, Peter Eisenman, used here in Columbus is much like that from the Aronoff Center in Cincinnati, and the contrast it creates with its stereotypical downtown neighbors makes the building stand out that much more. Its proximity to the Wexner Center also makes the short drive worthwhile, in order to see two slightly different types of Eisenman buildings.

HyattDirectly north of the Convention Center is the Cap and Short North Art District that both offer unique dining opportunities. For a more eclectic experience, visit the North Market which is about 1 block directly west of the Convention Center.

The Hyatt Regency connects directly to the convention center on the south end of the center. The Hyatt is also a block or so directly east of Nationwide Arena and the Arena District Dining and entertainment area. At the north end of the Convention Center across the street, is located the Hampton Inn and Suites.

See also:

Pubs & Restaurants

Huntington Baseball Park

Short North District

North Market

Nationwide Arena