With an eye on what's possible, any space – even when built for a specific function – can be transform to host a range of events. Mix looks at five outdoor spaces that have found a second purpose as corporate events venues:
BOULEVARD OF FLAGS IN SEAPORT BOSTON
Boston, United States
A sprawling complex with over 16,000 square metres of venue space, this establishment consists of the Seaport Boston Hotel and the Seaport World Trade Centre. The highlight of its many meeting spaces is arguably the Boulevard of Flags, a long outdoor mall lined with flags of the world. Under open skies, it is a very unique environment for outdoor receptions – accessible and customisable. The vastness of the boulevard coupled with the international theme makes it an ideal location for receptions of up to 8,000 people.
MARINA BARRAGE
Singapore
Constructed across the mouth of the Marina Channel, this massive dam and its surrounding greenery affords fantastic, unobstructed views of the Singapore skyline. The Green Roof is definitely the most iconic feature – a massive landscaped roof that doubles up as an open recreational park the size of about four football fields. Different areas of the Green Roof can hired for exclusive use with rates from S$600 (US$477) to S$1,050 (US$835). It is perfect for a mass picnic or even corporate recreational events like kite-flying and mass exercises, the barrage provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city while still retaining the panoramic views.
SHERATON GRANDE WALKERHILL
Seoul, South Korea
The hotel redefines creative use of space. Its parking lot can be transformed into a temporary venue. The Vista Hall has been the stager for high-profile events such as the SBS Digital Forum and the World Knowledge Forum, which were hosted by South Korea in recent years. Nothing is spared when setting up the hall and its temporary status gives it an added dimension of flexibility for the planner.
www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton
TRIBECA PARK IN CENTRAL PARK JAKARTA
Jakarta, Indonesia
A park within a shopping centre complex, the flexibility of this venue makes it one of the most widely used event sites in the city. National events like the Earth Hour 60+ National Campaign have been held on the green lawns of Tribeca Park, widely known as the green centerpiece of Central Park Jakarta. Furthermore, fireworks displays can also be enjoyed every month, along with daily musical fountain shows. Guests can even dine alfresco at the fresh air arcades situated on every level of the complex.
www.centralparkjakarta.com or contact Zico at zico@centralparkjakarta.com
THE FRONT LAWN AT THE REPULSE BAY
Hong Kong
The Front Lawn at The Repulse Bay is a favourite outdoor space for corporate cocktails. The space, which can fit up to 400 people, is shared between Spices, a cosy Asian-style restaurant, and The Verandah, a rich continental restaurant. With wide-spanning lawns and outdoor patios, it is well known as a lovely place to hold an intimate party or wedding. The quiet and soothing ambience is highly-regarded among guests looking to escape the ruckus of the city, while the restaurants ability to switch between formal and casual is an added bonus for many.
Randall Sim
