The opening of the India International Convention Centre, which goes by the name of Yashobhoomi Dwarka, makes a serious impression on the global stage. Positioned as Asia’s second-largest – and notably the world’s third-largest – convention centre, the India International Convention Centre stands as a testament to the country’s burgeoning economic landscape and architectural ingenuity.

Designed as a multipurpose urban development intended to bolster India’s gross domestic product by establishing a dynamic centre for businesses, investors and international exhibitors. This grand project extends across 225 acres and includes an array of diverse facilities – namely exhibition halls, retail spaces, commercial offices and a world-class indoor arena with a retractable roof – and can accommodate up to 10,000 attendees.

Yashobhoomi Dwarka, with its vast capacity, pays homage to traditional Indian culture and modern design principles. It features a series of leaning arches that amalgamate modern design with ethnic sensibilities. Indian design elements such as jaalis, stepped wells and motifs like the lotus on the indoor retractable roof in the arena integrate into a modern context. Local vegetation, colonnades and water bodies throughout the site improve the microclimate and contribute to groundwater replenishment.

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The roof structure boasts skylights to maximise natural light infiltration into the halls. Adhering to green building principles and the IGBC Platinum rating standards, the Convention Centre incorporates intelligent facade systems for thermal control and acoustic regulation, extensive use of solar energy and effective solid waste management practices. Pedestrian-friendly walkways, green boulevards and water features leverage the environmental quality and user experience of the site.

Strategically located near the International Airport and the nexus of Gurgaon and Delhi, the IICC promotes public connectivity through a transportation hub at its heart. This accessibility is designed to catalyse industrial growth and position India as a premier MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination.

CP Kukreja Architects
cpkukreja.com

Photography
Umang Shah 

The 2024 AIA Conference also touched on some Indian projects