Should I Choose a Clearspan or Traditional Marquee

Have you been asking: should I choose a clearspan or traditional marquee? Our expert guide compares the two options, helping you make an informed decision for your marquee event.

Q: Should I choose a Clearspan or Traditional Marquee?

A: Choosing between a Clearspan and Traditional Marquee depends on various factors such as your event's requirements, aesthetic preferences, and budget considerations.

Clearspan marquees, also known as frame or structure marquees, offer a modern and versatile option. They feature a clear expanse of space without interior poles, providing flexibility in layout and maximising usable space.

Clearspan marquees are ideal for events requiring large, unobstructed areas, such as weddings, exhibitions, and corporate functions. They are also suitable for uneven or restricted sites where traditional marquees may not be feasible.

Should I Choose a Clearspan or Traditional Marquee?

When planning an event, one of the primary decisions is choosing between a clearspan or traditional marquee. This decision sets the stage for your event and influences various aspects such as the atmosphere, use of space, and how the guests interact. You may wonder - what are the differences between these marquees and which will best suit your event?

Well, both offer unique features tailored for different occasions but there are benefits and drawbacks to each that need to be considered. Traditional marquees, for instance, have an old-world charm that pairs perfectly with events like weddings or garden parties.

Their flowing lines and classic design create a sense of elegance and romance. However, their poles and guy ropes require extra space and can limit the internal layout, which could be a potential disadvantage for large-scale events.

On the other hand, clearspan marquees are noted for their versatility. They have a modern, sleek design and don’t require internal support or external guy ropes, thereby providing flexibility in space planning, which can make them an ideal choice for corporate events, exhibitions, or festivals. However, they might lack the charm and character that traditional marquees inherently possess.

Understanding the differences across these marquee types will ensure an informed decision. By considering the number of guests, the type of event, and the atmosphere you wish to achieve, you can select the most suitable marquee.

But which one is the best for your event? Let's dive deeper.

The sides and roofs of these clearspan marquees come in various materials that cater to specific preferences and needs. Notably, these materials include a transparent option that gives a unique 'see-through' look.

This creates an interesting visual appeal where you can enjoy the outdoor view while being sheltered, giving your event a distinctive feel and atmosphere. What makes clearspan marquees even more appealing is their flexibility in size. No matter the size of your event or the length of your guest list, these marquees can be adjusted accordingly to cater to your specific capacity needs.

Whether it's a small family gathering, a medium-sized corporate event, or a massive public event, these marquees are perfect for any occasion. The notable absence of internal poles in these marquees gives you more flexibility when planning the internal layout and designing the space. This freedom makes it very simple to divide or utilise the area available in the marquee to suit your needs.

You could opt for an open plan layout for a dance floor or set out individual spaces for dining, a stage area or seating, depending on the nature of the event. In conclusion, a clearspan marquee is an excellent choice for those who value flexibility, durability, and adaptability. It's the perfect solution for your creative design ideas and functional event needs.

What Are the Benefits of a Clearspan Marquee?

A clearspan marquee provides a significant advantage in the form of its remarkable versatility. This type of marquee, designed like a 'blank canvas,' gives you the unprecedented freedom to customise the interior layout according to your specific needs and preferences. With no internal poles or guy ropes to restrict your creativity, you can decide exactly where you want to situate stages, dance floors, or dining areas to create the perfect setting for your event.

Apart from its flexible design, clearspan marquees also excel when it comes to weather resilience. These structures are better equipped to cope with unpredictable weather situations, being able to resist and withstand the impacts of high winds and heavy rain more effectively than traditional marquee models. This makes them a practical and reliable choice for hosting outdoor events, irrespective of the weather conditions.

Another key feature of clearspan marquees is their option for a transparent roof and walls. This transparent design allows guests to enjoy panoramic views of the surroundings, adding an extra degree of charm to any event.

Whether it's an untouched landscape or a stunning cityscape, the clearspan marquee lets the beauty of the outdoors seep inside, enhancing the overall experience for your guests. The versatility, weather resistance, and stunning aesthetics offered by a clearspan marquee make it a strong choice for any event, helping to elevate the experience for all attendees.

What Are the Benefits of a Traditional Marquee?

Traditional marquees possess a distinguished and timeless allure that brings a sense of yesteryear to your event. Accentuated by a high peaked roof supplemented with attractive scalloped edges, these marquees can introduce an element of nostalgia. Although the internal poles found in traditional marquees may impose some limitations on the layout possibilities, they contribute significantly to the aesthetic value.

They allow for an injection of character and uniqueness to the structure of your event. Interestingly, these poles can also serve additional purposes as part of your décor theme. You can brilliantly incorporate them into your event's design by hanging decorative lights or beautiful flower arrangements from them, thereby enhancing the overall ambience and charm.

Moreover, a defining characteristic of these conventional marquees is their cost-effectiveness. More often than not, traditional marquees tend to be more price-friendly compared to their modern counterparts. As a result, they are favoured as the go-to choice for event planners who are mindful of working within a budget. This cost-benefit, coupled with their elegant design, serves to make traditional marquees an appealing choice for a wide range of occasions.

A traditional marquee can bring classic elegance to your event, create a delightful ambience, facilitate decoration versatility, and offer value for money. These tents can cater superbly to those wishing to add a touch of vintage charm to their celebrations without breaking the bank.

Traditional marquees are especially popular for their time-tested, classic appearance, and the vintage feel they bring. They come with quaint details such as wooden poles, ornamental ropes, and spikes, creating a picturesque, dreamy setting that resonates with countryside weddings. So, if you're looking for something classic and enduring, a traditional marquee could be your best bet.

On the other hand, if you're after a sharp, contemporary, and cosmopolitan wedding setting, a clearspan marquee would be a fitting choice. Characterised by their sleek lines, clear walls, and roofs and the ability to leave the layout completely open, clearspan marquees can provide the perfect backdrop for a chic, stylish wedding.

These structures are typically more adaptive and flexible, offering more space and no distractions like poles or ropes. Their transparent walls and ceilings can leave an impressive view of the surrounding landscape, creating an atmosphere that's simultaneously intimate and expansive. They allow for complete customisation, so each wedding can be unique according to the couples' personal preferences.

Are you looking for traditional marquee hire in Shropshire? We are Staffordshire Marquees, a marquee hire company offering various options to elevate your events and their visual appeal. With a commitment to excellence, our marquees are meticulously designed and maintained, suitable for weddings, corporate events, and various special occasions.