Cankarjev dom Cultural and Congress Centre, the largest purpose-built convention centre in Slovenia, is concluding its 30th anniversary celebration with an eye to the future. Instead of a grand party, new refurbishment plans have been given priority.
Cankarjev dom, featuring altogether 21 function rooms, the largest of which is a 2,000-seater auditorium, now hosts over 1,800 events and 500,000 visitors yearly. The numbers attained over the past three decades are quite impressive: around 11,600,000 visitors at 40,000 cultural, scientific, trade and other events. Starting the fourth decade of its operation, the major part of the Centre has undergone at least a soft renovation, while certain sections have been functionally redesigned following extensive refurbishment.
The main focus during the last summer was the demanding renovation of the Grand Reception Hall which is, so as the entire building, listed as a protected architectural heritage and hence needed special attention. This project was performed as the first stage of the 2010-2013 investment cycle. The related value is estimated at 6.5 million euro, while only the hall’s renovation was worth one million. This included, among other, the placement of over 70 km of new cables, 2,000 electricity sockets and lights, practically all hidden under the ceiling, which is composed of 40,000 metal particles. The air condition and sound system, the support to IT and multimedia are among other upgrades. All the technical improvements are to provide lower energy consumption and an even better environment for large gatherings staged there.
The renovation was carried out while Cankarjev dom was fully operational and two larger congresses were taking place, without any inconveniences to organisers or delegates alike – truly a best practice case!
Happy 30 to Cankarjev dom, cultural and congress centre!
