Birmingham architect’s conference centre scheme almost ready
A BIRMINGHAM architect’s plan for the new conference centre at the Resorts World Birmingham entertainment and leisure complex is starting to become a reality, as the development gears up for its grand opening later this year.
Monteith Scott’s vision for The Vox, the venue’s conference and banqueting facility, forms a key part of the Genting group’s £150m grand design, which is situated next to the NEC.
The architect had initially been appointed to rework the marketing visuals already produced by another agency.
However, Genting was so impressed with the designer’s ideas to improve the facility, that Monteith Scott was asked to advise on the overall look and feel, finishes and lighting used in the scheme. In addition, the interior architects were asked to put together a fly-through video to demonstrate how the revised scheme would look.
Monteith Scott creative director Derek Matthews said: “Comprising five purpose-built suites, the Vox will accommodate anything from small meetings to large-scale events, with the capacity to hold up to 900 people.
“Working around the original spatial designs, we have incorporated key feature wall cladding, softened the finishes and enhanced the lighting to give it a more sophisticated, hotel ambience.”
James Elston, sales director for the Vox and the ICC, Birmingham, said: “We were really impressed with Monteith Scott’s designs and felt they reflected the unique, vibrant space that the Vox will offer. It is really starting to take shape and we are looking forward to seeing the state-of-the-art facilities come to life as the development progresses.”
Birmingham-based fit out specialists Overbury is the contractor delivering Monteith Scott’s scheme.
Resorts World Birmingham, which is due to open later this year, will include retail outlets, a cinema, casino, bars, restaurants, spa and a four-star hotel.
Monteith Scott, based in the Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham, is led by managing director Alison Monteith, design director Derek Matthews and technical director John Millington. The company has two divisions – Work and Play – operating across a range of sectors.
The Vox, which will be operated by the event management team from the ICC Birmingham, is intended to be a flexible space for businesses looking for an affordable but prestigious conference venue with premium catering and high specification facilities.
It is being marketed alongside the unique experience being offered by the Resorts World operation.
[VIDEO: 798]
