Just over two years after the first building was laid, the h2 conference centre was inaugurated with great fanfare on 6 December. Nearly 4,000 people flocked to the centre during the open afternoon, a sign of the public's interest in this new cultural and working facility.
Why this minimalist yet enigmatic name? Those in charge of the project intend to make reference to the architectural design of this H-shaped building - designed by 3XN Architects and Chabanne - thanks to the glass footbridge linking the two structures. In addition, the letter H refers to the history of Nîmes, particularly the Roman period.
A tribute to the city's past, the new convention centre also paves the way for an ambitious future. " The opening of the h2 Convention Centre confirms Nîmes' ambition to become a key destination for business tourism "summarise those responsible for the project. They go on to say: " More than just a new facility, h2 embodies a dynamic: that of a city that reinvents itself, that creates, that inspires and attracts. ".
This newcomer to the made-in-France MICE scene covers a total surface area of 8,500 m². It includes a 673-seat auditorium, 18 modular meeting rooms (from 10 to 100 seats), a 700 m² space that can be adapted to any type of event, and a restaurant area with a terrace and an uninterrupted view of the arena.
Firmly anchored in its time, h2 claims sustainable urban construction status. ET already boasts two environmental certifications: Bâtiment Durable Occitanie (BDO) and Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM). The project's environmental credentials include 375 m² of photovoltaic solar panels and 19 geothermal probes, as well as the use of bio-sourced and recycled materials.
Another advantage of the new convention centre is that it will be located in the heart of the city, which, in addition to its logistical benefits, should transform the face of Nîmes. Local officials explain: " The Convention Centre plays a key role in boosting Nîmes' appeal. This project also contributes to the policy of revitalisation and urban regeneration of the city centre. (...) The h2, Nîmes Convention Centre, is not only a new centre of attraction for professionals, but also the symbol of the future face of the Porte de France district. ".
Let there be no mistake: Nîmes is ready to take on a new dimension on the business tourism scene, and the destination intends to shine in France and beyond. SPL Eclat, which is responsible for running h2 - as well as the Musée de la Romanité - has already launched pre-marketing and intends to step up its efforts over the coming months with a presence at a number of trade shows.
