DE LA SALLE-LIPA
College of Information Technology and Engineering
Architecture Program
ARCDES 6
Third Year- 2nd Semester
Plate no. 2: Convention Center
Duration : 6 Weeks
Mode of Presentation : Individual
Medium of Presentation : Open Presentation
A. Introduction
A convention center is a dynamic and multi-functional venue designed to accommodate a variety of large-
scale events, such as conventions, conferences, exhibitions, trade shows, seminars, and other public or private
gatherings, conferences, exhibitions, trade shows, seminars, and other public or private gatherings. These
centers are often architecturally striking and located in major metropolitan areas or near airports, making
them accessible to both domestic and international visitors. Many convention centers are an integral part of a
city’s economic and cultural fabric, attracting thousands of participants and driving tourism, hospitality, and
other related industries.
Convention centers are characterized by their vast floor space, which can range from a few thousand to
millions of square meters. They typically offer versatile and customizable spaces, including exhibition halls,
bedrooms, auditoriums, meeting rooms, and breakout areas. This adaptability allows them to host events of
varying sized and types, from intimate meetings and corporate training sessions to large-scale international
expos or concerts.
In addition to hosting business-focused events, convention centers often play a role in community and
cultural activities. They may serve as venues for concerts, art shows, sporting events, charity galas, and
political conventions. This versatility allows convention centers to engage a broad audience, from business
professionals and industry experts to the general public, helping foster innovation, education, and
collaboration across a wide spectrum of fields.
Ultimately, convention centers are more than just event spaces—they are vital engines for economic growth,
fostering partnerships, knowledge exchange, and cultural enrichment. Their capacity to host a variety of
events makes them key pillars in the local, regional, and even global event ecosystems.
B. Background of the Study
The proposal to establish a convention center in Santo Tomas, Batangas comes in response to the city’s
urbanization and its growing role as a commercial and industrial hub in Southern Luzon. Santo Tomas,
strategically located along the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and positioned at the gateway to the
CALABARZON region, has seen significant expansion in recent years. The city is home to various industrial
estates, commercial establishments, and educational institutions, all of which have contributed to its
transformation into a vital player in the regional economy. However, despite its economic growth, the city
lacks a centralized venue for large-scale conferences, exhibitions, and corporate events, leading to a demand
for a dedicated convention center.
Currently, businesses, government agencies, and local organizations in Santo Tomas have limited options for
hosting significant events. Many of these events are held in nearby cities like Lipa, Tagaytay, or even Metro
Manila, which adds logistical challenges and costs for local stakeholders. As the city continues to attract more
investments and visitors, the absence of a modern convention facility is becoming more apparent.
The proposed convention center aims to fill this gap by providing a world-class venue for events, conferences,
trade shows, and exhibitions, contributing to the local economy and promoting Santo Tomas as a prime
destination for both business and tourism.
Key factors supporting the need for this project include:
1. Economic Growth and Industrialization: Santo Tomas is part of the Batangas Industrial Corridor,
which includes major industrial parks and multinational companies. A convention center would
leverage the city’s industrial base by hosting industry-specific trade shows, conferences, and
networking events, supporting the business community’s need for a central meeting place.
2. Strategic Location: Located along key transportation routes, including the SLEX and major national
highways, Santo Tomas is highly accessible from Metro Manila, Laguna, and other parts of Batangas.
Its proximity to these economic centers makes it an ideal location for hosting regional and national
events, offering a less congested and more cost-effective alternative to Metro Manlia venues.
3. Tourism and hospitality potential: While Santo Tomas is primarily recognized for its industrial base,
its proximity to natural attractions such as Mount Makiling, hot springs in Los Banos, and nearby
resorts enhances its potential for tourism. The convention center could capitalize on this by offering
event-goers leisure opportunities alongside business activities, promoting a blend of business and
leisure tourism.
4. Support for Local Businesses: The construction of a convention center would directly benefit local
businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments, by increasing foot traffic and
generating additional demands for services. This would, in turn, create more employment
opportunities in the hospitality and service sectors. Stimulating the local economy.
5. Addressing Local Demand for Event Spaces: in addition to serving as a venue for large-scale
corporate and industry events, the convention center would cater to the local community’s need for
space to hold civic gatherings, weddings, school events, and other social functions. This would
provide a central venue for a variety of local and regional events, further integrating the convention
center into the community’s social and cultural life.
6. Enhancing Regional Competitiveness: As neighboring cities like Lipa and Batangas City continue to
develop their own convention and event facilities, Santo Tomas must position itself as a competitive
player in the regional market. By offering a modern, accessible, and versatile venue, the proposed
convention center would attract not only the business conferences but also trade fairs, cultural
events, and exhibitions that showcase local industries and innovation.
The development of a convention center in Santo Tomas would not only enhance the city’s infrastructure but
also serve as a catalyst for further growth, fostering stronger business connections, supporting local
industries, and attracting a wider range of events. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of the proposed
project, assess its potential economic and social impacts, and ensure it aligns with the city’s vision for
sustainable development and regional competitiveness. By doing so, the project can serve as a key asset in
Santo Tomas’ ongoing development, contributing to its recognition as a thriving business and tourism hub in
Batangas.
C. Project Objectives
1. Develop a modern and versatile convention center equipped with advanced facilities to host a wide
range of events, including conferences, trade shows, exhibitions, seminars, and corporate gatherings.
2. Create a venue that encourages networking and partnerships among local industries, providing them
with a platform to showcase their products and innovations through trade fairs, exhibitions, and
corporate functions.
3. Integrate sustainable building practices and energy-efficient technologies into the convention
center’s design to reduce its environmental impact and promote eco-friendly events, aligning with
global sustainability trends\
4. Design the convention center with adaptable spaces, including large exhibition halls, meeting rooms,
and breakout areas, to cater to different types and sizes of events. Ensure the center is accessible to
all, including those with disabilities.
5. Position the convention center as a key infrastructure project that will serve as a catalyst for future
urban development in Santo Tomas, attracting further investments in the city’s commercial and
tourism sector.
D. Project Requirements
a. Exhibition Halls
b. Conference Rooms/Meeting Rooms
c. Pre-function/ Reception Areas
d. Administrative Offices
e. Storage Areas
f. Catering and Kitchen Areas
g. Restrooms
h. Parking facilities
i. Loading Docks/ Logistic Areas
j. Tech Room
k. Retail and Dining Areas
l. Outdoor Spaces
E. Site Description:
The proposed convention center is strategically located in Santo Tomas, Batangas, adjacent to the
newly opened SM City Santo Tomas. This prime location provides excellent visibility and
accessibility, making it a landmark destination for events, conferences, and large-scale gatherings in
the area.
The site spans approximately 5,458.00 square meters, situated along Maharlika Highway, a major
arterial road that connects Santo Tomas to nearby cities and provinces. Its proximity to the STAR
Tollway seamless access for guests traveling from Metro Manila, CALABARZON, and beyond.
Positioned next to SM City Santo Tomas, the convention center benefits from the bustling activity of
the mall, which offers a wide range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. This synergy
creates a dynamic environment that enhances the overall experience for event attendees.
The surrounding area is a blend of commercial and residential developments, with well-established
infrastructure and utilities in the place. The location offers ample space for parking and opportunities
for landscaping to create an inviting atmosphere.
F. Presentation Requirements
a. Concept Sheet which must contain the following: Major Plate title. Project Brief and all
articulations used in your Conceptual Development, Form Development and Space Blocking.
b. Site Development Plan using the best possible scale to fit 20” x 30” sheet
c. Floor Plans 1:100 meters or bigger
d. Four (4) Elevations and Two (2) Sections 1:100 meters or bigger consistent with Floor Plan
scale. There should be callouts to emphasize the ingenuity of the materials used.
e. Fully-rendered Interior Perspective of any vital area of the project WITH ENTOURAGE
f. Monochromatic Study model showing building blockings or massing
Note:
1. The scale indicated above is the estimated BEST POSSIBLE SCALE to be used for the said drawing
requirements. If you have concerns regarding the drawing scale (i.e. too small or too big), kindly
confer with your Design Mentor. Adjustment of drawing scale will be allowed for as long as it will not
compromise the legibility of the drawings.
2. All items above shall be drawn on 20” x 30” specialty paper. For the MONOCHROMATIC study model,
use available and appropriate materials, such as corrugated boards, chip boards, foam boards, etc.
SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES:
Week Inclusive Activities
Dates
5 Feb 24-Mar1 Launching of major Plate No. 1: Performance Arts Theater
Concept Development and critiquing
Collaborative work on Space Program
6 Mar 3-8 CONCEPT AND FORM development
Presentation 4: Museum Design 101
7 Mar 10-15 FINALIZATION OF FLOOR PLANS, ELEVATIONS, and
SECTIONS
Presentation 5:
Individual Consultation and Developing Designs
8 Mar 17-22 STUDIO WORKS
Individual Consultation and Developing Designs
Esquisse#1: TBA
9 Mar 24-29 STUDIO WORKS
Individual Consultation and Developing Designs
10 Mar 31-Apr 5 STUDIO WORKS
Individual Consultation and Developing Designs
11 Apr 7-12 SUBMISSION AND DEFENSE PRESENTATION
Continuation of Production works and final consultations
PPT/ Video presentation and Oral Defense
Prepared by:
Architecture Program
