Just thought I'd share this link from Hunt Connect (the company doing the expansion for the convention center). They have a webcam of the progress of the project. Hope you got shots in from of the cool library because it will be gone soon!
https://www.hunt-connect.com/sjcc/Pages/webcam.aspx
[Edit by MPLe: http://www.sanjose.org/content/san-jose-convention-center-expansion-and-renovation-opening-fall-2013 is Team San Jose's full construction page. It has the webcam here as well as random updates.]
I loved taking photos next to the building. Oh well. :P
Too bad the new building won't be available for Fanime usage until 2014
Quote from: HeeroYuy135 on October 12, 2011, 09:11:33 PM
Too bad the new building won't be available for Fanime usage until 2014
Yeah. I'm personally excited about the changes, but will miss the fountain out front. I (jokingly) ask to have the fountain water colored (http://eswcmalaysia.files.wordpress.com/2008/08/morning-of-1st-day-long-queue-going-into-san-jose-convention-center.jpg?w=510&h=382) every so often. :X
Quote from: MPLe on October 14, 2011, 02:40:50 AM
Quote from: HeeroYuy135 on October 12, 2011, 09:11:33 PM
Too bad the new building won't be available for Fanime usage until 2014
Yeah. I'm personally excited about the changes, but will miss the fountain out front. I (jokingly) ask to have the fountain water colored (http://eswcmalaysia.files.wordpress.com/2008/08/morning-of-1st-day-long-queue-going-into-san-jose-convention-center.jpg?w=510&h=382) every so often. :X
Wow. That WOULD be cool. That pic looks like green ecto-slime. Perfect for Ghostbusters. :D
Maybe they can extend the building to the curb, so that the protesters have no place on that side of the street to protest! jk XD
I don't think they will get rid of the fountain because of the new building; the project information said there will be minimal impact to the existing convention center (except maybe for the eyesore construction...)
Quote from: Otakuya on October 15, 2011, 02:36:20 AM
I don't think they will get rid of the fountain because of the new building; the project information said there will be minimal impact to the existing convention center (except maybe for the eyesore construction...)
Could be, but the last I heard, it was going to end up looking like this (https://www.hunt-connect.com/sjcc/photos/15%20Percent%20Plaza%20View.jpg) with this (https://www.hunt-connect.com/sjcc/photos/Plaza%20View%20Resize.jpg) being the construction being done now. I'm sure they still can change the minds though. :D
Well, the grassy steps to the right look like they'd be a fine spot for pictures ...
The problem I can see with this construction is the reduced space for cosplay gatherings. The right side that's closed off had some gatherings, especially some of the larger gatherings like Hetalia. I hope the cosplay staff can get around this for the next two years.
^ but imagine all the space Fanimecon can use after the construction is finished (a lot less line headaches for video rooms, for example).
In the meantime, maybe have more cosplay gatherings at Cesar Chavez plaza or Discovery Meadow instead of in front of the construction zone
Quote from: Otakuya on October 29, 2011, 01:34:02 AM
^ but imagine all the space Fanimecon can use after the construction is finished (a lot less line headaches for video rooms, for example).
In the meantime, maybe have more cosplay gatherings at Cesar Chavez plaza or Discovery Meadow instead of in front of the construction zone
Exactly, there's a HUGE grassy park across the street from the con I don't think enough people utilize. The .hack cosplay group I was with went back there and there was maybe like... two other cosplayers out there and its super pretty : T
Quote from: MPLe on October 15, 2011, 02:54:47 AM
Quote from: Otakuya on October 15, 2011, 02:36:20 AM
I don't think they will get rid of the fountain because of the new building; the project information said there will be minimal impact to the existing convention center (except maybe for the eyesore construction...)
Could be, but the last I heard, it was going to end up looking like this (https://www.hunt-connect.com/sjcc/photos/15%20Percent%20Plaza%20View.jpg) with this (https://www.hunt-connect.com/sjcc/photos/Plaza%20View%20Resize.jpg) being the construction being done now. I'm sure they still can change the minds though. :D
Oh dear. I hope they don't actually end up having it look like the first image linked. I'm not sure what's going on with the excessive number of walkways, but I'll miss the fountain too if they get rid of it. The fountain at the old Santa Clara convention was gorgeous and I love the one we have now too.
Hmm...? (Look at the screen on the far right)
(https://www.hunt-connect.com/sjcc/photos/DD%20Exterior%20West.jpg)
E3? lol
Quote from: 11/21/11 Project Update
The San Jose Convention Center expansion and renovation project continues to progress on schedule. September saw progress in both the Design/Build and construction components of the project, including the completion of abatement, exterior site clearing, and the commencement of soft-gutting.
In October, Cleveland Wrecking was able to disconnect the stairs, beams and slab from the existing Convention Center. Construction crews were then able to remove small sections of the cantilevered roof piece by piece and upon completion, moved to the main section of the roof eventually letting it 'collapse' inward.
The skinning of the building started in mid October and continued into November. Demolition of the superstructure is now complete and demolition of the substructure has commenced and will continue through December.
As the first phase to reactivate and open up the plaza in front of the Convention Center, the existing fountain will soon be filled in. More details on this exciting and innovative design component of the expansion and renovation to come in 2012.
With our commitment to an eco-friendly and environmentally responsible construction process, 95% of demolition spoils will be recycled, equating to approximately 1,300 truck-loads of material. As a result there will be a noticeable increase in truck traffic to and from the construction site via the San Carlos Street entrance during the final stages of demolition. In addition, the Old MLK Library concrete will be crushed on-site and re-used as aggregate fill. No road closures are scheduled at this time and all construction activity will be contained within the fenced area of the Old MLK Library site.
The San Jose Convention Center remains open during construction and will celebrate a grand reopening in Fall 2013.
I wonder why they want to get rid of the fountain?
I like most of the plans for the changes to the convention center and think they look great. However, I would miss the fountain greatly if they get rid of it. I understand why they might want it gone, since fountains can become quite expensive to maintain, but it makes such a great backdrop for cosplay photos.
Just for a fun little bit of comparison, I found a picture of the SJCC from around the time it was finished. (The structural engineering firm who designed the convention center didn't list an exact date for the picture.)
(https://forums.fanime.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lera.com%2Fpimg%2Fsanjoseconventioncen%2F9789988_large.jpg&hash=95aac3041e1114050435d4e5c098311fff42747a)
How many differences can you spot?
Quote from: AngrySean on December 08, 2011, 01:49:44 AM
(https://forums.fanime.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lera.com%2Fpimg%2Fsanjoseconventioncen%2F9789988_large.jpg&hash=95aac3041e1114050435d4e5c098311fff42747a)
How many differences can you spot?
Both the Hilton and Marriott are not built yet, though the Marriott's place is earmarked apparently. That's the most obvious difference to me. :)
As for a date estimate for the picture: I would estimate somewhere around 1989 or 1990. This guess comes from a few places, since I had a hard time finding the ending construction date for the convention center itself. First, I took a look at the cars on the road, the body styles line up with the ones I've seen in that general time frame. Then, I looked up the opening dates on the hotels. I couldn't find one easily for the Marriott, but the Hilton has it out there that they opened in 1992. Since the hotels are barely more than flat ground at this point (especially the Marriott), it's safe to infer it's after the convention center was done, but before the construction on the hotels started. A building of the size of the hotels can easily take a good year or so to build, so..
I'm glad to see if someone finds more than me though :)
^ The other difference is the old King Library which is now gone.
There's now a tall building behind the convention center (the corner of Balbach and Almaden Blvd).
Also, the old Tech Museum was right across the street from the King Library, but you can't see it from the picture.
I believe the convention center was built in 1989 during the tech boom as simply the San Jose Convention Center.
The official name now is the San Jose McEnery Convention Center from former mayor Tom McEnery, who brought many companies and the Sharks to San Jose in the early 90s. No one really calls it the McEnery Center or anything.
Well the Fountain is Officially gone.
Saw them destroying it over the course of a Week while passing by on deliveries.
How are all them Weaboos supposed to break their legs now?
*Sad Face*
Quote from: TC_X0_Lt_0X on January 02, 2012, 12:45:06 AM
Well the Fountain is Officially gone.
Saw them destroying it over the course of a Week while passing by on deliveries.
How are all them Weaboos supposed to break their legs now?
*Sad Face*
By hobbling eachother.
Quote from: renalcul on January 02, 2012, 02:57:50 AM
Quote from: TC_X0_Lt_0X on January 02, 2012, 12:45:06 AM
Well the Fountain is Officially gone.
Saw them destroying it over the course of a Week while passing by on deliveries.
How are all them Weaboos supposed to break their legs now?
*Sad Face*
By hobbling eachother.
Excellent, then there is still hope.
The Marriott hotel finished construction shortly after the 2002 WorldCon in San Jose...
Sorry to see the fountains go, I always thought they were a waste of space, never worked right and tended to spray on people when the wind was blowing...
Just my opinion...
C.
Quote from: TC_X0_Lt_0X on January 02, 2012, 12:45:06 AM
Well the Fountain is Officially gone.
Saw them destroying it over the course of a Week while passing by on deliveries.
How are all them Weaboos supposed to break their legs now?
*Sad Face*
http://nooooooooooooooo.com/
All cosplayers must cherish our picks in front of the fountains :D Fanime '12 is a challenge for us cosplayers organizing gatherings.
The fountains have been replaced by ugly green plants.... The giant globe things are still there though... Doesn't work at all in my opinion! I want the fountains back... :(
Quote from: azreale on January 12, 2012, 03:28:08 PM
The fountains have been replaced by ugly green plants.... The giant globe things are still there though... Doesn't work at all in my opinion! I want the fountains back... :(
yah, its been discussed for some time now...
I dont know how most fanime members will feel...
but a picture is worth 1000 words right?
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/429229_10150547151762881_655332880_9043468_84192470_n.jpg)
I think most people first thought would be "Dislike" :(
This looks like my harvest moon plot. When my crops are first sprouting. I don't like it, the water was pretty and made for good pictures.
What is this, Farmville?
o...how terrible..they made it look like a community garden.. they should've at least kept a small water fixture or sumthn pretty! now the spacing looks limited :'(
It looks like....poor shrubbery *bad Monty Python Knights Who Say Ni voice* :P
Quote from: kookiekween99 on February 13, 2012, 11:08:40 AM
What is this, Farmville?
Harvest moon is a game, a very good game. farmville is knock off of this. But yeah... so why did they change the fountain to this?
@Dany
I agree with you! Ni...
All I can hope is that in a few years when they grow it'll look less like a farm and more like, well, decorative plants.
Quote from: Jerry on February 13, 2012, 09:09:58 AM
Quote from: azreale on January 12, 2012, 03:28:08 PM
The fountains have been replaced by ugly green plants.... The giant globe things are still there though... Doesn't work at all in my opinion! I want the fountains back... :(
yah, its been discussed for some time now...
I dont know how most fanime members will feel...
but a picture is worth 1000 words right?
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/429229_10150547151762881_655332880_9043468_84192470_n.jpg)
I think most people first thought would be "Dislike" :(
I took that picture and my reaction was like: WHY U DO THIS? But yeah, a lot of people agree, that that place will get trampled, destroyed, and filled with litter on the first day of the con. Personally, I loved the fountains cause they were an awesome backdrop for photos. Now they are no more -_-;;
i heard rumors that the quezacotl statue is going to be moved there.
Oh noes! No more fountains?? The green looks so..... unnatural... It doesn't blend in at all. A very big dislike!
I'm hearing that a lot of people are willing to take on the risk of getting caught and fined (and maybe even arrested?) to do a photo shoot in the construction site itself
There are a lot of "urban" anime where a construction site would be a prime spot for a shoot
Quote from: HeeroYuy135 on February 14, 2012, 12:06:49 AMI'm hearing that a lot of people are willing to take on the risk of getting caught and fined (and maybe even arrested?) to do a photo shoot in the construction site itself
There are a lot of "urban" anime where a construction site would be a prime spot for a shoot
As much as I like a good cosplay photo, this is why we can't have nice things. :(
Quote from: Haunterluvcookies on February 13, 2012, 09:37:52 AM
This looks like my harvest moon plot. When my crops are first sprouting. I don't like it, the water was pretty and made for good pictures.
That was my first thought, actually!
It's really ugly and looks totally out of place. :< Would be great if I were doing a Harvest Moon cosplay, though...?
The one benefit I see is at least we will have more standing room in the front, presuming it is okay to stand in them.
This is probably just for while they do construction
Quote from: HotelGhost on February 14, 2012, 01:38:48 AM
This is probably just for while they do construction
Sadly no... many of the fountains in DT San Jose have been shut down due to the fact that it's difficult in this economy to maintain them. *sad face* http://www.mercurynews.com/bay-area-news/ci_19653492
We still have the fountains in the CC park across the street, but it'll never be the same. RIP fountain.
Quote from: Mi Feng on February 16, 2012, 03:26:00 PM
Quote from: HotelGhost on February 14, 2012, 01:38:48 AM
This is probably just for while they do construction
Sadly no... many of the fountains in DT San Jose have been shut down due to the fact that it's difficult in this economy to maintain them. *sad face* http://www.mercurynews.com/bay-area-news/ci_19653492
We still have the fountains in the CC park across the street, but it'll never be the same. RIP fountain.
RIP San Jose Mcenery Convention Center fountains
1989-2012
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmZBOY6Mczk
"Thanks for all the great memories from the hearts and minds of everyone at Fanimecon"
Seriously though, they're gone for good? Fuck, Yeah we do have the park fountains but it never will be the same :-[
I just now realized the big video board is gone too
I think that board has been gone for a while.
Has anyone seen signs hanging up at downtown yet?
Quote from: Barnes on April 25, 2012, 07:12:11 PM
I think that board has been gone for a while.
Has anyone seen signs hanging up at downtown yet?
I've been downtown a few days ago but haven't seen many signs other than construction company signs. :/
I hope the street banners will go up soon, tho I bet it'll be after Cinco de Mayo due to the craziness downtown that night.
Quote from: Otakuya on April 30, 2012, 10:33:41 PM
I hope the street banners will go up soon, tho I bet it'll be after Cinco de Mayo due to the craziness downtown that night.
*looks at notes* They will go up in about two weeks. =)
I just visited the convention center last Friday and the former fountain actually looks pretty nice as a garden!
Granted, it's definitely not the same but it looks much better than the picture that was posted earlier and should make a nice background for cosplay photos!!
Quote from: keitoghostie on May 14, 2012, 09:10:54 PM
I just visited the convention center last Friday and the former fountain actually looks pretty nice as a garden!
Granted, it's definitely not the same but it looks much better than the picture that was posted earlier and should make a nice background for cosplay photos!!
I'm glad to know that someone agrees with me :)
I honestly wished they hadn't touched the fountain. Especially if it would be a hot humid day there will be no fountains to refresh us and cool us down., and this flower bed will? Not. Seriously why destroy something that matches/fits the building's theme with a flower bed that sticks out like a sore thumb?? Who's brilliant idea was that? lol
What worries me more about the garden area is the space because 1/2 of the old fountain area is gone. At least there'll be other places for cosplay gatherings, but I'm sure it's gonna be croweded.
Quote from: Otakuya on May 15, 2012, 01:41:25 AM
What worries me more about the garden area is the space because 1/2 of the old fountain area is gone. At least there'll be other places for cosplay gatherings, but I'm sure it's gonna be croweded.
nice icon btw! Sucks ass they got raped by the Blues in the first round. I totally agree on the part about it being stuffy and crowded now, but I really hope this garden is temporary and they will change it back to some better fountain atleast!!
In other news, the banners are starting to go up. I'm glad that the characters are mixed now, instead of an entire street of Candy(?)'s banner.
Considering how crowded the convention was this year, I'm really looking forward to the expansion being done!
Is the expansion going to be done by next fanime?
Quote from: Haunterluvcookies on May 31, 2012, 03:05:26 PM
Is the expansion going to be done by next fanime?
According to the San Jose website (http://www.sanjose.org/content/san-jose-convention-center-expansion-and-renovation-opening-fall-2013), it'll be done by Fall 2013, meaning it won't be open until Fanime 2014.
Hopefully by next year the level of construction work will be a bit more minimal though!
It will get worse before it gets better. I am not privy to all the details, but I do suggest that you all pay careful attention to signs and listen to staff members when they ask you to move to another area or not take pictures in that particular location.
We might not have it next Fanime but when Fanime 2013 comes around, we won't have to deal with the whole desolate construction scene anymore since the new building should be up by then.
Here's a small preview of what is going on right now at the con. center itself:
http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f293/CapeBarnes/Downtown%20San%20Jose/000_0278.jpg
http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f293/CapeBarnes/Downtown%20San%20Jose/000_0279.jpg
As I posted in another thread in the general subforum, I've started to maintain a Google+ Album (set to public) of the progress of the expansion since the end of Fanime 2012. (https://plus.google.com/photos/102788761703888329369/albums/5749676131028641249) I'll be posting new photos every now and then as progress is made, so keep checking in!
Quote from: Stormfalcon on June 24, 2012, 01:35:14 AM
As I posted in another thread in the general subforum, I've started to maintain a Google+ Album (set to public) of the progress of the expansion since the end of Fanime 2012. (https://plus.google.com/photos/102788761703888329369/albums/5749676131028641249) I'll be posting new photos every now and then as progress is made, so keep checking in!
Holy crap, Fanime 13 is gonna be crammed like crazy.
So wait... is there now a huge... thing in the middle of Registration? That's either going to make maintaining the lines a nightmare, or they're going to have to move Registration elsewhere.
Quote from: kookiekween99 on June 24, 2012, 08:33:31 PM
So wait... is there now a huge... thing in the middle of Registration? That's either going to make maintaining the lines a nightmare, or they're going to have to move Registration elsewhere.
More rather, registration is currently walled-off as part of the renovation. How long it'll stay like this, we don't know.
Seeing as how the new wing is going to open in the fall of 2013, by Fanime 2013 all the heavy construction should be done by then, would it not?
Quote from: Xanreo on June 25, 2012, 02:16:40 AM
Seeing as how the new wing is going to open in the fall of 2013, by Fanime 2013 all the heavy construction should be done by then, would it not?
Question is, just how much of it will be left to do (Fanime being in late spring), and how much will still be cordoned off. Even if much of the construction and the renovation of the existing portions of the convention center is done by that point, not all of it will be open to the public, at least not the new wing.
"...celebrate a grand reopening in Fall 2013."
It could still be ready by June, grand reopening is just when there's gonna be a ceremony to celebrate the new additions.
All we're hoping for next year is to have more room to walk and cosplay gatherings to take place.
Quote from: Jeimizu on June 29, 2012, 12:11:28 AM
"...celebrate a grand reopening in Fall 2013."
It could still be ready by June, grand reopening is just when there's gonna be a ceremony to celebrate the new additions.
My predictions would be that the new expansion areas will be cordoned off, with no one allowed in the new areas until the Fall (I suspect that, at the very least, interior work in that area will still be in progress by Fanime '13). Aside from the new areas, the currently walled-off areas inside the center itself will likely be opened back up and renovated. It's also possible that the courtyard will be opened back up, with hopefully a new fountain (right now, Huckleberry Farm is just a dumping ground for the construction crews). However, we won't see old favorite photography spots return and I'm not sure how close to the new expansion wing the crews will allow people to gather. It's a lot of big ifs, aside from people not being allowed in the new wing. I don't expect that to happen until Fall '13.
And just to keep things updated, they started putting up the expansion's "skeleton" structure today, starting at the Hilton-side corner. I've already got some shots up at my G+ gallery linked earlier. They also cordoned off the main entrance lobby as part of the construction zone now, and put up temporary signage over part of the entrance mural pointing people towards the Marriott side for entry to the center. I didn't get to take photos of inside the lobby just yet, but the information kiosk in the corner has already been removed.
Please refrain from posting what you think will be the case for the convention center space (and passing it off as fact).
We are working closely with Team San Jose to ensure that there will be as much space (as possible) for FanimeCon 2013 (and beyond) and the current plan is to have a layout posted on our website as soon as we get the final confirmation as to what space we will and won't have. Also, many more signs will be posted around the convention center. =)
Quote from: MPLe on July 11, 2012, 04:56:47 AM
Please refrain from posting what you think will be the case for the convention center space.
Sorry for... thinking things?
Quote from: Jeimizu on July 12, 2012, 10:15:10 PMSorry for... thinking things?
Apology accepted. No thinking for you!
I added a blurb to my original post to clarify what I was trying to say. It wasn't aimed at any single post on here, but I've been seeing comments on Twitter and such where people have been passing along false information.
Things I've seen on the walk-throughs I did in November and October.
There is going to be serious congestion everything Hilton side of Stage zero. Remember how we always had that big open overhang area with the glass Bannister. Gone up to the concrete pillars that were in the "middle" of the walkway on both the upper and lower areas.
In several points in that area there are choke points down to about six feet wide.
Registration and stage zero area changes: The two escalators that were behind registration that we always sent people up after registering: Gone. That is just a giant pit. It was going to made into a walkway on the upper floor, but after they took the escalators out they found there was no structural support in the wall behind to actually do that.
Stairs down from stage zero into convention center entryway have been expanded and sort of wrap around where we had tables for events to check in and people to get directions.
glass doors and glass walls in a couple odd places Hilton side on the first floor.
Nothing really notable changed Mariott side from what I saw. If there are any changes I'll update in January.
I looked for a floor map of the convention center to illustrate the changes but found nothing. I'll see if I can find something in January.
It should be noted that we're still a little over five months away from Fanime 2013, so things can still change as far as the hallway chokepoints go. They've been making good progress so far over the months since Fanime 2012 (just check my G+ album linked above!), so there's still time for things to improve in some areas compared to how things are at the moment.
When is it scheduled to open again? Summer 2013 or 2014?
Quote from: Mi Feng on December 12, 2012, 10:38:10 PM
When is it scheduled to open again? Summer 2013 or 2014?
Last I checked, Fall 2013
A quick note! With my G+ album getting rather full and unwieldy, I decided to start a new album for this coming year. Shots for 2013 can be found here: https://plus.google.com/photos/102788761703888329369/albums/5828734887631400561
I got to go inside and walk around back in October, and I'm amazed at some of the interior changes and wondering how they'll affect con. For example, anyone notice that the hallway leading to the Hilton is super narrow now?
RIP Fountains.
someone go check how it looks now and take pictures
Quote from: Rhornez on January 03, 2013, 04:38:44 PM
RIP Fountains.
someone go check how it looks now and take pictures
Problem is, a large part of the fountain area (including where the fountains were) are fenced off as part of the construction area. I mean, you could hold a camera over fence level if you really wanted to, but you won't get anything really interesting since the late, unlamented Huckleberry Farm (the flowerbed that temporarily replaced the fountain last year) is now obliterated and used to pile construction materials and such onto.
Quote from: Stormfalcon on January 03, 2013, 10:20:09 PM
Quote from: Rhornez on January 03, 2013, 04:38:44 PM
RIP Fountains.
someone go check how it looks now and take pictures
Problem is, a large part of the fountain area (including where the fountains were) are fenced off as part of the construction area. I mean, you could hold a camera over fence level if you really wanted to, but you won't get anything really interesting since the late, unlamented Huckleberry Farm (the flowerbed that temporarily replaced the fountain last year) is now obliterated and used to pile construction materials and such onto.
Do you by chance know what the spot of the ex-fountains is going to replaced with permanently?
Quote from: Mi Feng on January 06, 2013, 01:47:16 AM
Quote from: Stormfalcon on January 03, 2013, 10:20:09 PM
Quote from: Rhornez on January 03, 2013, 04:38:44 PM
RIP Fountains.
someone go check how it looks now and take pictures
Problem is, a large part of the fountain area (including where the fountains were) are fenced off as part of the construction area. I mean, you could hold a camera over fence level if you really wanted to, but you won't get anything really interesting since the late, unlamented Huckleberry Farm (the flowerbed that temporarily replaced the fountain last year) is now obliterated and used to pile construction materials and such onto.
Do you by chance know what the spot of the ex-fountains is going to replaced with permanently?
The last concept image I saw was
(https://forums.fanime.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fc14997646.r46.cf2.rackcdn.com%2FExpansionRendering-7-22-12Small.jpg&hash=4d16803545e1965bce3715b7e0cd2073de112db2)
that will look so nice ;_; the cosplayers, its beautiful.... i wish i was younger, turning 20 feels strange
^ but as for this year, it's shaping up to be an ugly venue for picture taking because of the construction and the limited space; unless you count Plaza de Cesar Chavez
Quote from: Otakuya on January 07, 2013, 10:50:48 PM
^ but as for this year, it's shaping up to be an ugly venue for picture taking because of the construction and the limited space; unless you count Plaza de Cesar Chavez
Soon....
They should seriously build another fountain somewhere else though, it was really beautiful. I guess the problem might have been people playing in it or something. :'(
Quote from: 01 on March 27, 2013, 04:47:19 PM
They should seriously build another fountain somewhere else though, it was really beautiful. I guess the problem might have been people playing in it or something. :'(
I wanted to see the fountain so badly~ But my first Fanime was last year and it had already been filled up with dirt and plants.. T^T So disappointing...
I wish we could all like send in suggestions for a new fountain or something.. -.-'
Nice as fountains are for taking pictures and general beauty, there would be the chance that the city wouldn't want to pay for the water if the city budget gets tight. But if you guys are curious, I believe I remember there being in ground geysers in the little park near Fanime across from the Fairmont. They aren't always on, but they're pretty cool and you're actually allowed to play in these ones when they're on, which they aren't always.
Anyways, since I was in SJ last weekend I decided to drop by the construction site since I haven't seen the place since last Fanime. It's really coming along from what I can see! A lot of the building structure and exterior seems to be up, which is good. I couldn't get a peek at the new lobby sadly, still excited about it though. Hopefully the construction company puts up more progress pictures soon. Now if only SJ would start accepting plans for ways to build out that darned balloon!
I have been quietly updating my Google+ album for this current year (https://plus.google.com/photos/102788761703888329369/albums/5828734887631400561), and the last couple of shots (as of 3/27/13) are notable in that they've started tearing out the courtyard area.
Holy crap! Is that a bamboo garden behind those doors? Where did they put THAT beauty. I wanna go see it this year!
Quote from: Stormfalcon on March 28, 2013, 06:47:20 AM
I have been quietly updating my Google+ album for this current year (https://plus.google.com/photos/102788761703888329369/albums/5828734887631400561), and the last couple of shots (as of 3/27/13) are notable in that they've started tearing out the courtyard area.
Thanks for the photos. This will be my first Fanime, and while the construction is unfortunate, it certainly does look promising for future events. I can't wait to see the area for myself. ^_^
Quote from: RitsukaUzumaki on March 27, 2013, 05:54:24 PM
Quote from: 01 on March 27, 2013, 04:47:19 PM
They should seriously build another fountain somewhere else though, it was really beautiful. I guess the problem might have been people playing in it or something. :'(
I wanted to see the fountain so badly~ But my first Fanime was last year and it had already been filled up with dirt and plants.. T^T So disappointing...
I wish we could all like send in suggestions for a new fountain or something.. -.-'
We should send in suggestions for a fountain that reuses its water to where it goes in a constant cycle. Since they removed it from the entrance area then we could suggest for them to have a little area reserved for a fountain.
Going to put this in the main post of this thread, but here is the website where you can get up-to-date information....
http://www.sanjose.org/content/san-jose-convention-center-expansion-and-renovation-opening-fall-2013
Quote from: phr34kish on March 28, 2013, 08:59:12 AM
Holy crap! Is that a bamboo garden behind those doors? Where did they put THAT beauty. I wanna go see it this year!
It looks like window decals to mask whatever is behind those windows (construction, probably). You can see light around the edges. (look at the top edge, where there are windows that obviously lead to outside, but the bamboo just...stops. It also looks quite flat)
Though, a bamboo garden would be amazing if they actually had one.
I'm more wondering about those stone and wood steps you can see in the pics with the "bamboo garden"...those haven't always always been there, have they? (lol, how long have I been going to Fanime? since before it moved to this location? ;P) Those would be amazing for cosplay photos. Where in the CC are those located?
Without the fountains/big grassy patch/mostly those big stone balls, I'm not sure where I'm going to park myself for photogs this year! Maybe those stone and wood steps will have to be put to use...
Quote from: Nina Star 9 on March 28, 2013, 06:58:40 PM
Quote from: phr34kish on March 28, 2013, 08:59:12 AM
Holy crap! Is that a bamboo garden behind those doors? Where did they put THAT beauty. I wanna go see it this year!
It looks like window decals to mask whatever is behind those windows (construction, probably). You can see light around the edges. (look at the top edge, where there are windows that obviously lead to outside, but the bamboo just...stops. It also looks quite flat)
Though, a bamboo garden would be amazing if they actually had one.
I'm more wondering about those stone and wood steps you can see in the pics with the "bamboo garden"...those haven't always always been there, have they? (lol, how long have I been going to Fanime? since before it moved to this location? ;P) Those would be amazing for cosplay photos. Where in the CC are those located?
Without the fountains/big grassy patch/mostly those big stone balls, I'm not sure where I'm going to park myself for photogs this year! Maybe those stone and wood steps will have to be put to use...
Those "steps" are next to and around the stairs in the main entry hall, by where the escalators were/are? that room is the good old convention center entry way. sniff, wonder where the peace-bonding and gathering stalls will be with those steps in the way, BUT true to the a fore mentioned point, they sure will make a nice spot for pictures!
Yeah, those steps are indeed new, put in when they renovated the lobby area. The bamboo garden decals were put in place as a temporary deal so people wouldn't have to see stuff outside all torn up and dusty during the construction. One other thing that should be noted would be the installation of glass doorways in the lower level of the concourse, between the lobby area and the two hotels bookending the center.
If the bamboo decals are still there, I bet every cosplayer from a ninja, samurai, or other type of anime that would benefit from a traditional Japanese setting will be wanting pics in front of the "forest"!
Ah, so the steps are in that main area now? Huh. This'll be interesting. I bet they will be quite popular, and people will be fighting over spots on them! I have a feeling that the con is going to seem a -lot- more crowded this year, with the reduced space and changed layouts... can't wait until this renovation is done!
now that they have a new grand ballroom coming, the black & white ball would be a blast! a balcony? every classy cosplayer would be hanging out there!! :D
Quote from: 01 on March 29, 2013, 08:10:49 AM
now that they have a new grand ballroom coming, the black & white ball would be a blast! a balcony? every classy cosplayer would be hanging out there!! :D
It is way too early to plan where things will be. :P
What if we decide to play Cosplay Settlers of Catan or something?!*
*Joke
Quote from: MPLe on March 29, 2013, 11:32:29 AM
Quote from: 01 on March 29, 2013, 08:10:49 AM
now that they have a new grand ballroom coming, the black & white ball would be a blast! a balcony? every classy cosplayer would be hanging out there!! :D
It is way too early to plan where things will be. :P
What if we decide to play Cosplay Settlers of Catan or something?!*
*Joke
Pssh..go eat something ..(unrelated comment)
Quote from: MPLe on March 29, 2013, 11:32:29 AM
What if we decide to play Cosplay Settlers of Catan or something?!*
Does anyone have wood? I need wood....do YOU have wood?
[Edit by MPLe: User has been warned for this post.]
*facepalm*
So i have been given some pictures of the construction. See them on tumblr soon, find the user muchi-kun. Do enjoy :D
I'm surprised by the progress of the expansion and I hope 2014 will be awesome
I heard something about a library for the convention center, it's possible but...random. i guess.
There used to be a library in the old building in front of the con. center.
im hearing from a guy i know complaining about the hallways being too thin and alot of back up, any details guys?
Yeah, I'm curious as to the interior too.
Will the lobby be accessible, are sections blocked off, etc?
You can go inside on some days even when there's no event. So try to take a look if you're near...i think you can enter through the side across from the Subway.
Quote from: Rhornez on May 13, 2013, 12:44:29 AM
im hearing from a guy i know complaining about the hallways being too thin and alot of back up, any details guys?
I haven't been to the convention center in about a month but there's definitely points where the hallways get really thin.
I've particularly noticed it affecting the ground floor more than the second floor so at least that's a plus.
I can't really provide concrete details since it's been a while but I'd estimate it cuts down to two people wide at the smallest parts (which are fairly brief sections).
The lower level is, like a few already mentioned, a lot thinner in the previous registration area. Also, wood panels were added onto the ceilings, so they are significantly lower, so you should be careful with not smashing your face in while on the first level. There is some space and seating beyond the stairs.
Nearly the entire front of the convention center is blocked out, except a bit of the Mariott side. The "slab" area by the Hilton is also still open.
It's definitely going to be extra crowded this year.
It says on the official San Jose website that construction and renovation at the San Jose convention center will be complete in fall 2013, if it hasn't been mentioned already on here. Here is the web address for it: http://www.sanjose.org/content/san-jose-convention-center-expansion-and-renovation-opening-fall-2013 (http://www.sanjose.org/content/san-jose-convention-center-expansion-and-renovation-opening-fall-2013).
There was a lot of misinformation circulating the con and forums about this, so I just wanted to let others know that are concerned about this construction affecting Fanime 2014.
Driving by the front end of the construction, I really got a feel of how much extra space there will be once the building is done. My gf and I were having doubts if we'd be coming back to Fanime next year, but I feel like I have to at least give it a chance once the construction is done.
Any chance Fanime can use the Tech Museum, California Theatre, Camera 3, Camera 12, Montgomery Theatre, CPA, Parkside Hall, SJSU Campus, King Library (or any/all of the above) for extra space for events and exclusive video rooms?
Yeah, 2013 is really a rebuilding year
I thought i saw that some event was taking place in Parkside Hall but I forget what
Quote from: keitoghostie on May 29, 2013, 10:18:09 PM
I thought i saw that some event was taking place in Parkside Hall but I forget what
It was the Black & White ball on Sunday.
If of any interest to anyone, the original tile of the convention center is visible again.
Only a few more months until [estimated] completion!
More Fanime related, the spreading of events made it not painfully crowded. That was pretty nice.
Just makes me rather curious on what the additional rooms will be used for next year.
A preview of the courtyard area:
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151703924867566&set=pb.215374687565.-2207520000.1373671633.&type=3&theater
Quote from: lanislori on July 12, 2013, 04:30:57 PM
A preview of the courtyard area:
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151703924867566&set=pb.215374687565.-2207520000.1373671633.&type=3&theater
Is that going to be replacing the old fountain? :o
So far, it sounds like the fountain isn't going to be there anymore, but this is one of Team San Jose's comments on FB about the project:
"While the tile work is not slated to go away anytime soon there is an AMAZING interactive piece of artwork going into the plaza area that will showcase the very current (and even futuristic) side of San Jose. I'm trying to get some images and information on that to post in the next few weeks!"
I'm a huge art nerd, so an interactive art piece sounds REALLY COOL. Depending on what it is, I'd be a bit worried about congoers wanting to climb all over it or interact with it a little too hard, but I'm sure that any public art installation would account for roughhousing and such. Not sure what this means for cosplay photo locations (I loved the fountain area previously because I could park myself on one of those big stone balls and go fishing for photogs, haha), but we'll just have to wait and see!
Progress in the grand ballroom:
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151730652082566&set=a.379258807565.162080.215374687565&type=1&theater
More photos :'D
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151755953457566.1073741830.215374687565&type=3 (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151755953457566.1073741830.215374687565&type=3)
http://sjccgrandopening.org/
38 days until the grand opening :'D
FINALLY~
It's about time. I wonder how good Fanime will be next year. With the added room it should be nice and wide to move around.
IT'S DONE :'D
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151853547917566.1073741833.215374687565&type=1
Quote from: lanislori on September 19, 2013, 08:13:17 PM
IT'S DONE :'D
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151853547917566.1073741833.215374687565&type=1
(https://forums.fanime.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.giphy.com%2Fmedia%2FFjeGBljESVAzu%2Fgiphy.gif&hash=ababf7ddd80cf5e6cb3058e663d517ba7748224e)
For me, Its better than last year, by a long shot with more places for gatherings. my only question is in several pictures there are several platforms(? IDK what to call them but they look green) that i am confused if its water or just random green platforms. can anyone confirm or deny what they are?
Quote from: tjimmy2 on September 20, 2013, 12:49:07 AM
Quote from: lanislori on September 19, 2013, 08:13:17 PM
IT'S DONE :'D
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151853547917566.1073741833.215374687565&type=1 (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151853547917566.1073741833.215374687565&type=1)
For me, Its better than last year, by a long shot with more places for gatherings. my only question is in several pictures there are several platforms(? IDK what to call them but they look green) that i am confused if its water or just random green platforms. can anyone confirm or deny what they are?
If I'm assuming correctly, they are steps going down to the ballroom with artificial grass inlaid.
Look at that jimmie jam in the front, the "interactive art piece" they call it~
More photos for people who are interested in checking it out.
Lots of great new photo/gathering locations for cosplayers and lots of event space.
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10102446758049063.1073741835.1234605&type=1&l=af9a34a2fa
I got the chance to take a bunch of shots this morning as well, and it's nice to see both the upper and lower concourses opened back up again. Lots of nice new space that hopefully Fanime can take advantage of in 2014! Still curious as to how things will be with the Idea Tree (the art piece out front) once they get that fully up and running on October 10 during the grand opening.
http://stormfalcon.smugmug.com/Other/San-Jose-Convention-Center/32034995_N7sqvN
The setup for the Community Day concert. So cool :' D
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151999665202625&set=gm.1397121197188523&type=1&theater
Quote from: lanislori on October 11, 2013, 03:31:23 AM
The setup for the Community Day concert. So cool :' D
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151999665202625&set=gm.1397121197188523&type=1&theater
Is that one of the new rooms in the new wing? If so, I'm impressed. It's huge! Looks almost nearly the size of the floor area in the music hall across the street...
omfg it looks so awsome. i miss the old days though :'( but now it looks brand new and more space im hyped up
Woaaaah.