Convention Centers

Designing Convention Centers?

When designing modern convention centers, it’s essential to prioritize not just aesthetic appeal, but also the functional demands of high-volume use. These venues must support the continuous movement of large crowds and rolling equipment including carts, pallet jacks, lifts, and service trucks. In addition to accommodating attendees with mobility challenges, designers must also consider structural flexibility, ensuring that the facility can handle thermal and seismic movement without compromising safety or accessibility.

Expansion joints play a critical role in achieving these goals. Properly selected joint systems enable smooth transitions between floor surfaces, reduce tripping hazards, and absorb structural movement all while withstanding the demands of constant foot and equipment traffic. By integrating flush, high-performance expansion joints into the design, architects can improve both operational efficiency and the overall visitor experience.

To achieve these goals, consider the following design priorities:

  • Crowd Flow & Accessibility – Ensure aisles, halls, and event spaces are wide and accessible for large groups and accommodate for ADA compliance and individuals with mobility devices.
  • Support for Equipment Movement – Design for easy, obstruction-free transport of carts, lifts, and service vehicles during event setup and takedown.
  • Durability of Flooring – Use surface materials and joint systems that withstand heavy foot traffic and high rolling loads.
  • Seismic & Thermal Movement – Select expansion joint systems that accommodate building movement without compromising accessibility or surface alignment.

By integrating the right expansion joint systems, designers can create convention spaces that are functional, inclusive, and event-ready, while improving safety and long-term performance.