The design of the building of the Mazatlán International Center was conceived not only as an innovative, modern, functional and high tech concept, but also as a message of pride for the land and the ancestors through the local talent; a message that transcends and converts this magnificent facility into a cultural expression.
The concept of the Mazatlán International Center was created by ACQUA Arquitectura for the owning entity FLIGOSNTE 27, and its design includes architectural shapes that reflect the identity of the state and the wealth of its coast. Through its exceptional architectural draws and works of art that symbolize the natural elements of the port city such as the sun, the wind, the marine breeze, the natural wealth of the coast and the harmonious coexistence of all, the Mazatlán International Center strives to transmit part of the history and the rich culture of the region and therefore give Mazatlán more than just a modern convention center: an urban sculpture.
The setting of the architectural group of elements was organized maximizing the open spaces, offering spacious gardens and avoiding the dominance of concrete.
The architecture of this facility has been used as a tool of visual communication. And for this reason it was decided to replace the surrounding fence for a series of vertical structures that represent the breaking of the ocean waves that welcome visitors to an international business atmosphere, walking into the modern facility through “The Pearl of the Pacific”, an impressive 24 ft polished sphere.
The architecture of the bus loading area was structure in such a way that it evokes a flock of gulls in the take off around a roundabout with a symbolic structure in the center that shows the fusion between a man and a sail fish. This work of art was created by Ricardo Becerra.
Over the whole western façade of 18,060 sq ft, Ernesto Rios created a work of art named “Historic, Economic and Tourist Development of the Sea of Cortes”. This wall is composed of mosaic, tile, talavera, clay, quarry and ironwork. The author uses the mixed sculpting-painting technique to create a composition of geometric shapes and dynamic symmetry. This work of art has been registered and recognized by the Guinness Records Organization as the largest wall in the world made by a solo artist.
The incoming esplanade is partially covered by a giant sail, where outdoor functions can be celebrated. This impressive structure was inspired by the anatomy of a stingray. An art hall with works of promising young local artists is located next to the stingray. From this point you walk towards the building through a spacious corridor that symbolizes the structure of a giant fish, entering the facility through a giant double-height porch.
The main building is highlighted on its style of clean strokes and neutral colors, where special materials such as steel and glass have been used to give it a modern look.
The access to the meeting building starts through a double-height hall that welcomes visitors with a pleasant design of ceilings that reflect the relaxing sway of the ocean waves and a series of elements that attract the visitors to the various activities in the facility. All of this is contemplated with an impressive work of art oil painted over a curved wall and named “State of Sinaloa in the 20th Century: The Fusion of Two Cultures”, by Ernesto Ríos, that represents the gradual transition through time of man, the region and its identity.
The architectural design of the Mazatlán International Center has been internationally recognized by the 12th Triennial Exhibition of Architecture celebrated in Bulgary and organized by the International Academy of Architecture. This recognition to the Mazatlán International Center was based on the amalgam of international architecture with the local elements that give identity to the region, providing spaces for culture and art within the architecture of the complex.