Houston’s largest convention center is undergoing a massive transformation. The George R. Brown Convention Center in downtown Houston is at the center of a $2 billion renovation plan ahead of the city hosting 2026 FIFA World Cup matches and the 2028 Republican National Convention. The plan, unveiled by Houston Mayor John Whitmire and Houston First Corporation, has three planned phases and will mark the center’s first renovation since 2026.
Goals and Plans
The goal of the planned renovation is to make the center and surrounding downtown area including Discovery Green and Avenida Houston Plaza into a more pedestrian-friendly district. This includes building a new 700,000+ square foot southern addition to the main convention center building which will connect the entertainment district to the surrounding east end. The centerpiece of this new building will be the ambitious Central Plaza, set to be the largest ballroom in Texas at a possible 80,000 square feet. Known as GRB Houston South, this new building is scheduled to open in May 2028 with the main convention center building staying in operation throughout the entire process.
Innovative Environments at the George R. Brown Convention Center
Innovative Environments is proud to be based in Houston. Our main office is located minutes away from George Brown Center, where we’ve been proud to be a part of numerous events. You can count on us being on the floor of the new George R. Brown Convention Center when it is complete as well. If you’re looking to stand out to customers in Houston or beyond, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Innovative Environments. We have a full staff of experts in all aspects of the events industry from design to fabrication and setup.