Marquee Types Explained
If you are planning an event, there are several popular marquee types that you may be exploring and choosing the best option will be crucial to the success of your event. In this article we explain the options, style choices and break down the pros and cons of each structure when it comes to hiring a marquee for your event.
tHE MOST POPULAR MARQUEE types
Clearspan marquee
A clearspan marquee is a modern and adaptable temporary event structure that is installed using a robust, lightweight aluminium frame. This means that there is no need for internal poles or external ropes, giving a completely clear internal event space.
One of the key advantages of a clearspan marquee is its flexibility. They can be erected on almost any surface, including grass, concrete, or gravel and even sloped sites, making it a practical solution. They can be customised with a wide range of modular finishes such as solid walls, doors, windows, temporary HVAC, (heating or cooling!) as well as lighting and linings. The possibilities are almost endless!. A clearspan marquee is extended in modular bays to provide the desired size. These are a popular choice of marquee type no matter the season or event:
- Flexibility and custom options
- Safety and compliance, enhanced wind and weather rating
- Ease and speed of installation
- Clean, and professional finish with uninterrupted internal space
- Multiple capacity and size options
TIPI STructure
A tipi marquee is a conical, traditional-style tent made of canvas and supported by poles, offering a rustic and intimate alternative to a modern clearspan marquee.
Due to their rustic nature, they are great for smaller intimate weddings. They can be customised with features like fairy lights to create a cozy atmosphere. Tipi marquees feature sloped walls and low pitched roofs, reducing the flexibility and practicality of the structure. The space near the edge of the structure can be very low. They have a lower wind and weather rating compared to other types of marquee which can limit their winter usage and usable internal space.
Traditional pole and rope, circus style "big top" marquee
A traditional pole and rope marquee, or pole tent, is similar to circus style big top tent, they use support poles in the structure to provide stability and are anchored into the ground with pins. Structural stability is provided by guy ropes. They are made of canvas rather than a more contemporary and durable PVC that you will find on a modern clearspan marquee.
The internal support poles can impact the flexibility and functionality of the space inside. They do give a traditional aesthetic that suits rustic or vintage themes such as a garden party. They require space around the structure the for guy ropes but make a strong visual impression. This style is especially popular for wedding or party marquee hire.
Stretch Tent
A stretch tent is a temporary event structure made from fabric that is again anchored to the ground with pins and supported by poles. Unlike traditional pole and rope marquees, the fabric is draped and “stretched” over the support poles to create a flowing and organic shape.
Stretch tents can be used for outdoor events, including weddings and garden parties and smaller corporate gatherings. With a stretch tent, they are an open sided structure and generally without walls. Due to this, a stretch tent offers poor weather protection, which leaves guests exposed to elements. They are unsuitable in certain weather situations.
pagoda marquee
A pagoda marquee is a versatile, small structure, also know as a conical marquee. A Pagoda offers a distinctive and ornamental high peaked roof, making them a standout structure on their own or when attached to larger marquee structures to provide additional space or an elegant entrance feature. They can be linked together and provided with or without sides. Our pagoda marquees are available in 3m x 3m, 5m x 5m and 6m x 6m sizes.
What is the right marquee for your event?
The right type of event marquee will depend on how you want your event to look and feel. However, there are some important considerations that can help you choose the right marquee for your event. Firstly, once you have a date secured for the event, the size of the structure including the number of attendees and layout of the marquee are the key considerations.
Clearspan marquees can be designed to accommodate any number of attendees, up to several thousand. Take into account if you will need additional space for catering, a storage area or ticket check point? Secondly the location and ground surface. some types of marquee are not suited for sloped or uneven ground whereas a clearspan marquee can be installed on any ground surface. The weather will also inform part of the decision making process. We all know the great British summer weather can throw event organisers curveballs.
Do you need your marquee to be covered and weatherproof? If so, a stretch tent or tipi may not give you the rain protection needed. In comparison a clearspan structure can be fully enclosed and specified with heating and lighting. If you need complete flexibility, comfort, and scalability, a clearspan marquee is one of the best marquee options as an all-round choice. They’re robust, stylish, and suitable for any ground type or season. From large festivals to high-end bespoke corporate events, they deliver reliability and flexibility in one quick to install structure.
Safety, compliance and further considerations
Our clearspan marquees are manufactured to the highest standards and are specified to meet robust wind and weather loading calculations. These safety standards exceed that of pole and rope marquees, stretch tents and tipis. In addition, a clearspan marquee will also give you additional benefits:
- Total flexibility: They are available in a range of modular sizes and can be designed and configured to suit any event requirement. From guest-facing hospitality to back-of-house infrastructure.
- Visual Consistency: The modular system ensures a professional, cohesive and high-quality appearance for your event. Structures can be stand-alone or seamlessly interconnected creating weatherproof, multi-zone event spaces.
- Comprehensive fit out and finishes: Every structure can be fully tailored to your event. A choice of walling, glazing, access doors, linings options all integrate neatly into the modular frame, creating a professional finish.
- Operational efficiency: Large structures can be built and dismantled quickly, keeping programmes tight and minimising disruption. They can be installed on any ground surface, including sloping sites.
What types of marquee solutions do Field and Lawn supply and install?
Field and Lawn exclusively stock clearspan marquees and pagodas in a wide range of sizes. We hold over 800,000 sq. ft. of marquee equipment across our national branch network meaning we can cover entire festival sites or deliver one-off bespoke builds. We help event organisers create unforgettable events and a clearspan marquee is our go to choice.
Not sure which size and type of marquee to choose? Speak to an expert today…
