Temporary structures for events provide versatile spaces for weddings, parties, conferences, markets, military operations, and much more. Temporary buildings offer unique versatility and functionality for various uses. This guide will help you choose the best temporary structures for outdoor events in any situation.
10 Essential Tips for Choosing Temporary Event Structures
Temporary event structures can be the perfect addition to an event, enhancing the environment and the overall experience. That said, deciding on the kind of temporary structure to use for your event involves the careful consideration of a number of factors. Here are ten of them:
Tip 1: Assess the Location
Your outdoor space has to offer ample space for the assembly and disassembly of the structure. The general topography will also play a role in what type of grounding method is chosen for your tent. Ideally, however, the land should be flat and even with stable ground to ensure maximum safety for your structure.
In addition to ensuring there is ample space for entrances and exits, it is also important to ensure there is adequate room for anchoring systems. Depending on the location, anchors like bolts and weights may be needed to ensure the structure remains stable.
Tip 2: Determine the Size and Scale of the Event
The most important factor when determining the right size for temporary event structures is to consider the number of people that will be in them. You must consider both attendees and staff, such as servers, caterers, entertainers, etc., and any equipment or separate space they may need to perform their roles.
Generous space is necessary to provide maximum comfort and proper ventilation. It also ensures that your structure conforms to fire safety requirements in your jurisdiction.
Temporary structures come in a variety of pre-built sizes, such as 30×60 or 20×40, that can cater to different capacities. Shelter Structures also offers a custom service to suit venues of unusual dimensions.
Tip 3: Think about Safety Considerations
As with any event, safety is a vital factor to remember when choosing a temporary structure for outdoor events. During high-energy events—like concerts or massive corporate conferences—adequate safety and security is even more important to mitigate risks and avoid potential injury.
Adverse weather conditions are also a concern, but luckily, tents from Shelter Structures are rated to withstand winds of 120km/h and heavy snow with our combination of aluminum alloy frames, high-quality PVC tarpaulins, and stable grounding methods.
Crowd management will also be an important element of your successful event, as the risk of stampedes and personal injury increases with the size of an audience. Certain structures are better suited for free movement while others have fewer exits and entries.
For example, an outdoor wedding tent frame may be more ideal for larger crowds in good weather so guests can easily move in and out of the space.
In addition, temporary buildings also need safety features built into them, such as windproofing and safety locks. At Shelter Structures, we build the most professional and secure temporary structures to ensure that they are both safe for use and protected.
Tip 4: Examine the Local Climate
Weather considerations will influence the type of temporary event structure you choose. If you’re wondering how long you can use a temporary event structure, the answer depends largely on the weather.
Inclement weather can quickly put a stop to any outdoor event. Open structures may still stand in rain or wind, but they would be uncomfortable for guests. Larger structures are built to withstand more rain, wind, and even snow, but they are not designed to protect people against extreme storms or blizzards.
Whether it’s wind, humidity or other conditions, be sure to consider the following:
- Look for insulated structures to protect against the cold.
- Consider water-resistant or waterproof structures if you anticipate rain or snow.
- Use open-air structures in warmer climates to improve ventilation.
Tip 5: Purpose and Special Requirements of the Event
Every event is unique and, likewise, needs a unique structure solution. For example, some events will require separate areas for staff, a stage, a prep area for performers, or a separate room for caterers.
The structure needs to provide ample space for any special equipment or ensure there is sufficient room for performances or corporate presentations. Both comfort and functionality are important factors to keep in mind when choosing the best structure for your event.
You should also be mindful of noise concerns. If the structure is too small, noise could become overbearing. Think about acoustics, sound systems, and how to create the most comfortable environment for attendees.
Furthermore, you should consider the aesthetics of the event. Weddings and parties will want a much different visual aesthetic than a corporate or industrial event. And windows and natural lighting may play a larger role in some events than others.
Tip 6: Plan around Construction
Construction time varies depending on the location, site topography, and size of the structure, as well as any set-up that must take place inside the structure after it’s built. The size, complexity, and level of customization of your structure also affect construction time.
Plan ahead. Give yourself at least 60 days to fully coordinate schedules with every party involved in your event. Be sure to think about clean-up, as well, as this can also require coordinating with custodial staff after the event.
Tip 7: Coordinate with Other Vendors, Suppliers, and Service Providers
Be sure to coordinate with your other vendors, suppliers, and service providers during both the planning and construction phases. Ask them how much room they need to perform their jobs, what accommodations they need for electrical set-ups and any additional factors that might affect the structure.
Some of the professionals you should speak with early on include—but are not limited to, decorators, sound and lighting engineers, caterers, and security agencies. Be mindful of their schedules to ensure that any necessary preparations can be made before the structure is built.
Tip 8: Plan for Traffic Flow
Guests should be able to move freely throughout the structure without ever feeling cramped. A temporary event space that’s too small or narrow can hinder airflow, reduce ventilation, and quickly become uncomfortable as attendants arrive.
It’s important to consider how people will act during the event. At a wedding, you expect dancing, mingling, and eating. But at a conference, there may be more time spent sitting, and less time outdoors; you would need to reserve more space for your temporary building.
Tip 9: Additional Facilities
Any additional facilities you require will ultimately affect the type of structure you need and the time it takes to construct the temporary building. Restrooms, prep kitchens, stages, first aid stations, storage rooms, and security checkpoints are all good examples of additional facilities that your event may need to be safe and successful.
It’s important to think about not just the amount of space these facilities require, but any additional modifications they may need. Be sure to let your structure provider know about every facility you are going to have so they can include them in the design layout.
Tip 10: Consider the Local Regulations
Temporary buildings often require permits, licenses, and possibly fees depending on their jurisdiction. Be sure to consult the owner of the event space to ensure your temporary structure can be legally built on the property. They can also help you take care of additional compliance requirements, like acquiring a permit.
It’s important to do comprehensive research and ensure your structure is built in accordance with local laws and building codes. Failing to comply can result in hefty penalty fees.
Which Type of Temporary Event Structure Do You Need?
There are many different types of temporary outdoor structures, ranging from open tent frames to dome and multi-story tents for large events. Knowing each type will help you find one that suits your audience size, event space and goals.
Consulting with a temporary structure professional can help you decide on the best design for your needs.
A-frame Tents
A-frame tents are excellent options for commercial events, parties, weddings, and festivals. Their clear structure and open interior can withstand wind gusts up to 115 mph and is well-suited for events that seek to maximize the interior space for social gatherings.
The A-frame tent by Shelter Structures is made of aluminum alloy T6061/T6 and features eye-catching ornate features that make it a striking and elegant choice for an event.
Atrium Tents
The clear top and floor-to-ceiling views of the atrium tent make it perfect for outdoor events with incredible surrounding scenery. From taking in the sunset to dancing under the stars, this structure is a popular wedding tent and outdoor structure for parties and festivals.
The hard-pressed, extruded structure is made of waterproof PVC-coated polyester fabric, and can handle winds up to 60 mph.
Dome Tents
Dome tents offer a sophisticated and sleek alternative to traditional tent structures. They marry the stability and versatility of A-frame tents with the unique visual appeal and experience of a dome. The curves and circular structures of a dome tent are also a marvelous sight, as they differ wildly from your average event tent with straight-line designs. Among temporary event structures, it is one of the most likely to add a sense of grandeur to an event.
Shelter Structures’ 25m party dome tent holds up to 300 seating or 800 standing guests. The dome incorporates eco-friendly materials with thoughtful design to offer both economic value and an enhanced experience.
Two-Story Tents
For extra room and impressive views, look no further than a two-story tent with built-in deck structure. This design effortlessly merges indoor and outdoor entertainment, allowing guests to admire the commanding views and good weather—making it perfect for sporting events and games. It also essentially doubles the usable area of a given space.
We offer distinct first and second-floor design options depending on the specifications of your event. It makes an excellent choice for brand campaigns, sports events with VIP lounges, conferences, corporate dinners, and social gatherings like weddings, birthday parties, and other celebrations.
Frame Tents
Frame tents are dynamic and versatile temporary structures made with aluminum alloy frames. They can easily be scaled up or down to support your event’s needs. The open-air design allows for easy entry and exit, while the large layout allows for natural views and lighting to take center stage.
With no center pole inside, the frame tent design allows for 100% interior space usage. The lightweight alloy frame offers easy assembly, taking just two to three people one day to construct.
Pole Tents
Budget-friendly and suitable for many outdoor events, pole tents feature a center pole in the middle for added stability. These sleek tents make the perfect backdrop for an outdoor wedding, party, or other gathering. It is easy to customize the interior with furniture and enhance its ambiance with wired lighting. Above all, these tents are incredibly affordable as well.
These tents were built with a lightweight alloy frame and can easily be assembled on a variety of surfaces, including grass and loose soil. They feature UV protection and fire-resistant materials to offer additional security for guests.
Conclusion
Choosing the right temporary structure for outdoor events requires careful planning. First, assess the event space, particularly the surface material, and layout. Don’t forget to consider any necessary permits or licenses you may need to build an event tent. Coordinate with a professional to help you align construction with event vendors, suppliers, etc.
At Shelter Structures, our mission is to help everyone find the right structure for their needs. Speak with an expert at Shelter Structures who can help you find the perfect temporary event structure.
