The Mulhouse Exhibition Centre, owned by Mulhouse Alsace Agglomeration (m2A) and operated under a public-private partnership, has undergone a major renovation and expansion, culminating in its inauguration in September 2024.
The objective is to transform this facility into a contemporary venue that can effectively meet the expanding needs of the area.
Central to the project is a new 3,000 m² hall, designed to enhance the existing infrastructure and created by AEA Architectes, a firm based in Sausheim and Strasbourg. The project also included renovations of the original buildings and the development of an outdoor event space.
30 new events
This expansion aims to improve the infrastructure for major events including Foir’EXPO and the Journées d’Octobre, while facilitating the growth of other key trade fairs such as Festivitas and BE 5.0, focused on the industries of the future.
The increased capacity allows for 30 new events each year with 120,000 additional visitors, generating 4,000 extra overnight stays and contributing €8 million to the local economy.
Shifting from dark to bright, the new metal exterior captures and reflects the ever-changing light and colours throughout the day
Visible from the motorway, the industrial-inspired metal façade of the new hall pays tribute to Mulhouse’s heritage.
The modular and versatile exhibition space is equipped with natural lighting and the latest technology.
“The simplicity and minimalism of the design are reflected in the efficient use of materials demonstrated in a unified metal cladding covering the entire upper part of the project. The scale of the resulting texture evokes a pleated fabric, paying homage to Mulhouse’s history and industrial past,” explains René-Pierre Ortiz, founder of AEA Architectes.
With a budget of €10.85 million, the development is funded by various public and private entities, including m2A, the Grand Est Region, the City of Mulhouse, and the European Union.
This large-scale project represents an opportunity to strengthen the region’s attractiveness while boosting economic growth and tourism.
