Architecture firm Populous has released detailed images of the highly anticipated expansion to the Los Angeles Convention Center in Downtown Los Angeles, coinciding with the project's groundbreaking ceremony that took place earlier this month. The ambitious expansion project, described by the firm as "decades in the making," represents a major milestone in transforming the facility into a premier global convention destination.
The expansion plan involves constructing a new building that will bridge the gap between the two existing major wings of the Los Angeles Convention Center (LACC), spanning over the city's busy Pico Boulevard thoroughfare. According to Populous, this project "will unify and transform the LACC into a premier global convention destination, cementing its place at the heart of Downtown Los Angeles."
The architectural renderings reveal a rectangular building that will connect the LACC's distinctive semi-circular South Hall with the West Hall located across the street. The design features a unique curved roof element that transitions into a slim hook shape, wrapping around an open terrace area. This innovative design approach maintains visual continuity with the existing structures while adding contemporary architectural elements.
The new 190,000-square-foot (17,650 square meter) expansion will primarily house additional exhibition spaces, following the function of the pre-existing halls. A significant feature of the project is a substantial 98,000-square-foot (9,000 square meter) ballroom planned for the rooftop level, which will provide versatile event space for large gatherings and conferences.
Interior renderings showcase several striking design elements, including a sunken space positioned beneath a large skylight at the center of the terrace. This area features an open atrium with mezzanines clad in white, creating a bright and welcoming environment for visitors. Additional renderings display exhibition spaces with low-lying ceilings designed to accommodate various displays, including vehicle exhibitions.
The project's significance extends far beyond architectural achievement, as city officials emphasize its economic impact on the Downtown Los Angeles area. According to city projections, the expansion is expected "to create more than 15,000 jobs, generate $652 million in tax revenue, and bring in $150 million in additional visitor spending" as a major tourist destination.
Doane Liu, executive director of the LA City Tourism Department, expressed enthusiasm at the October 1st groundbreaking ceremony, stating, "A new era of LA begins today. This is a significant milestone as we signal to the world that LA is ready to invest in itself and committed to being a world-class destination with a thriving tourism industry."
The project represents a collaborative effort involving multiple industry leaders. Populous serves as the lead design firm, while Plenary Americas handles development responsibilities. Construction duties are managed by a joint venture between PCL Construction and Webcor Construction, bringing together extensive expertise in large-scale commercial projects.
The timeline for completion is closely tied to Los Angeles's upcoming role as host city for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Construction is scheduled for "substantial completion" by spring 2028, with final delivery expected in spring 2029. This timeline ensures the expanded facility will be ready to support the influx of international visitors and events associated with the Olympic Games.
The Los Angeles Convention Center expansion joins several other major development projects currently underway in the city, including a multi-tower project designed by BIG and a comprehensive redevelopment of Television City by Foster Partners. These developments collectively represent Los Angeles's commitment to urban renewal and infrastructure improvement.
However, the city continues to recover from devastating wildfires that occurred earlier this year, which destroyed more than 15,000 structures and resulted in at least 30 fatalities. Despite these challenges, the convention center project represents a forward-looking investment in the city's economic future and its capacity to host major international events.
