Friday, February 20, 2009

EMI Event Dialog online on Modular

Modular Exhibit Systems: More Than Just an Instant Solution
Jeff Lake - Hamilton Exhibits
Daniel Tu - Tu Design
Rory J Thompson - Moderator

There was discussion about how modular exhibits were introduced to the american market as a low cost alternative to a custom booth and design was compromised by trying to do a 'knock off' of a custom booth. Now designs if they start with the idea of developing a design based on the system to be scaleable and efficient. 

Now many modular exhibits combine the use of fabric to soften the hard lines of the posts and beams of a modular or system architecture structure.

Rentals of these systems make them even more attractive today with the economy and concerns about sustainability.

There are a lot more options in terms of extrusion and panel and fabric that allows today's design escape for the boxiness of the early extrusion.
If you listened in to day to the webinar please feel free to comment. 

Reviewed by the Event Design Diva

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Combining Tools: Advice for Making the Most of Lighting + Fabric

Exhibit Design spotlight offers this article on the web:
Combining Tools: Advice for Making the Most of Lighting + Fabric

It's relatively good advice as far as it goes. I have been a lighting designer and exhibit designer and now a creative director of the premier source for tension fabric structures I am critically aware of the interplay between the two. We regularly set-up prototypes and previews to see just how new fabrics and lighting instruments work together in structures. I'm always happy to lend my advice to projects that clients bring to us at a concept stage as well.


The only gaffe I spotted, which should be forgiven since he is a lighting designer not a fabric builder, is 'spandex remains a popular material'. While I am aware that many people use this term of the myriad of knit fabrics we use, spandex is a fiber. Trapeze Plus or Eco-Trapeze are common materials in event design and I think that designers should always look to their TFS suppliers for advice on the best current material to achieve their goals on a specific project.
I'm sure all you CGI joes will pardon my geekdom on this point.