Using Multiple Levels to Maximise Exhibition Stand Impact

Exhibition Design Evolution: Art, Commerce & Creating Immersive Experiences

In the lead up to Dubai Expo 2020, which is expected to be the largest global exposition ever in terms of exhibitors and visitors, it is interesting to look back on the interwoven history of global expositions.

Exhibits have evolved from simple display cases crammed with objects in the case of museums, and standard wooden booths displaying equipment or products, to colourful and complex installations that tell a story about the brand. Today, the primary objective of exhibition stands is not just to move products or promote services, but to create engaging, immersive experiences that will resonate with visitors a long time after the event. This means focusing on how to generate an emotional connection with people to lock in brand loyalty and to lead to recurring business, and not just one-time sales.

So how can your clients stand out from the crowd?

Killer Exhibition Stand Design Features

As mentioned earlier, exhibition stands have evolved away from just being a way to sell products into a way to make a statement about a brand. In this competitive world, you must make a distinctive statement to capture your clients’ target audience and retain their attention.

In earlier posts, we discussed how to identify the best exhibition stand contractors in Dubai and the importance of exhibition stand quality. Here, we will discuss another aspect – how the design and aesthetics can be used to create an impact and an indelible impression.

Lighting Elements: Accent Lighting, Low hanging Lights and Chandeliers

Light is one of the best tools for creating atmosphere and lending depth to an exhibition installation. For the Greenbrier at Middle East Rail 2019, bright accent lights were used around the company’s name, spotlights around the edges of the suspended roof, with the delicate yellow glow of low hanging bulbs. Each different lighting element adds a different lighting temperature to the set up ranging from cool and sharp to warm and homey. The different lighting tones re-enforce the company’s professionalism along with its environmental commitment.

The Greenbrier Exhibition Booth

Meanwhile, for Arabian Travel Market in association with A. A. Almoosa inspired by Mirna Tenidis 2018, an enormous crystal chandelier was attached using a truss to the exhibition’s stand ceiling visible. In addition, kinetic crystal chandeliers and spiral lights added to the sense of luxury and movement.

Almoosa Exhibition Stand at ATM 2018

Exhibition Stand Roofing: Overhangs, Multi-roofing, Suspended roofs & Open roofs

In the past, exhibition stand companies did not make use of the space above the stand. But it is an area that can significantly increase awareness and boost impact. There are different types of roofing that can work in exhibition spaces, including overhanging roofs, multi-roofing and open roofs.

Setting up an overhanging roof effectively creates a more enclosed space for the exhibition stand intensifying the sense of a unique experience. It also provides an opportunity to enhance branding and visibility. These elements when used singly or in combination can make any stand unique and distinctive, adding layers and depth to the experience of visitors. Some examples would be:

  • The Hensoldt stand at IDEX 2017, designed by the VRPE Team GmbH and delivered by Electra Events, creates an open-sided cube shape that is spacious and fresh, accented with the brands signature colours
VRPE Hensoldt Exhibition Stand at Idex 2017
  • Core Savills at Cityscape the large minimalist overhanging roof in bright white showcases the company name highlighted in LED lights. This delivers a powerful statement about the brand’s strength. It is modern, urban and professional.
Core Savills Exhibition Stand at Cityscape 2016
  • Hacare at Arabhealth 2019 used a floating roof, suspended above the stand with fitted spotlights.
Hacare Exhibition Stand at Arabhealth 2019

Bespoke enclosures

For brands that want to stress their exclusivity, stands which resemble closed environments can have an irresistible pull to visitors. They arouse curiosity and interest.

  • Enne the contemporary design company exhibited at Index 2017 recreated a furniture showroom, a totally enclosed structure that was nevertheless accessible from each side. The open entryways and large glass windows enhanced accessibility while at the same time giving a sense of privacy and distinctiveness
Enne Exhibition Stand at Index 2017