Los Angeles has taken a major step forward in reshaping its convention and events landscape as global architecture firm Populous unveils the first official renderings of the long-anticipated Los Angeles Convention Center (LACC) expansion and modernization. The announcement coincides with the project’s groundbreaking, marking the beginning of a $2.6 billion transformation aimed at positioning the city as a leading global destination for large-scale conventions and entertainment events ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games.
The design introduces a new structure that physically and visually connects the South and West halls of the LACC by bridging Pico Boulevard, creating approximately 190,000 square feet of contiguous exhibit space, a feature long sought after by convention organizers. The structure is a 98,000-square-foot rooftop ballroom, offering panoramic skyline views and flexible space for galas, banquets, and high-profile conferences. The project also includes extensive upgrades to circulation, lighting, and wayfinding to enhance the visitor experience.
The new renderings showcase a daylight-filled central atrium, or “skynode,” which serves as the architectural heart of the expansion. Featuring expansive skylights, mezzanines, and cascading terraces, the atrium is designed to bring natural light deep into the building while improving flow between exhibition levels. The multi-level structure steps down toward Pico Boulevard, transforming what was once a barrier into an active pedestrian corridor that ties the convention center more closely to the L.A. Live entertainment district.
According to Populous, this integration is central to the project’s vision to make the LACC feel like a unified, dynamic destination rather than a collection of separate halls. The firm’s approach emphasizes openness, connectivity, and a contemporary design that reflects Los Angeles’s creative design.
Construction Strategy and Economic Vision Behind the LACC Expansion
The economic implications of the expansion are substantial. City and project materials estimate that the modernization will create over 15,000 jobs, generate roughly $652 million for the city’s General Fund over 30 years, and attract approximately $150 million in additional annual visitor spending. By offering contiguous exhibition space and enhanced facilities, the project aims to make Los Angeles more competitive against cities such as Las Vegas, Chicago, and Orlando in attracting high-value conventions and events.
However, officials have acknowledged that the project’s scope carries financial and timing risks. The compressed construction schedule must align with preparations for the 2028 Olympic Games, requiring a planned pause during the event and careful coordination afterward. City planners have also noted potential challenges, emphasizing the importance of maintaining budget discipline and ensuring long-term financial sustainability.
The expansion will be delivered under a public-private partnership, with Populous leading the design, Plenary Americas serving as the city’s development partner, and a PCL/Webcor joint venture handling construction. One of the project’s primary logistical challenges will be maintaining full operational continuity at the convention center while major construction takes place directly above Pico Boulevard. Populous and the contractor team have designed detailed phasing plans to minimize disruption and maintain safety for ongoing events.
Construction will achieve substantial completion by spring 2028, ahead of the Olympics, with final delivery expected by spring 2029.
Key Highlights and Impact of the Los Angeles Convention Center Expansion
The LACC expansion is a strategic investment in Los Angeles’ economic and cultural future. Connecting the South and West halls will finally allow the city to host mega-scale, single-floor events that previously went elsewhere due to spatial limitations. The rooftop ballroom, with its skyline views, is expected to become a signature venue for major conferences and social gatherings.
Design elements such as abundant daylight, improved wayfinding, and open circulation routes reflect Populous’ intent to enhance the user experience while promoting sustainability and efficiency. Yet, as the project advances, experts note the compressed schedule introduces risk, particularly around financing and delivery timing.
At a broader level, the expansion strengthens the downtown Los Angeles brand—positioning the area not only as a convention hub but also as a vibrant, interconnected entertainment and business district. The new façades and larger footprint will also open avenues for digital signage and sponsorship revenue, further supporting the city’s return on investment.
The Los Angeles Convention Center expansion embodies a bold, forward-looking vision for the city. Through Populous’s refined design, the project seeks to transform a once-disconnected complex into a unified civic landmark, one that bridges neighborhoods and elevates Los Angeles’s global profile.
Image credit: Populous
