When creating a set design, there are many things that need to be taken into consideration: audience, environment, restrictions, budget, and the list can go on. It seems impossible to check all the necessary boxes in a timely manner.
Leave it to the pros and lean on your AV Service Provider to guide your process in developing a set that your audience is sure to enjoy. Here are five considerations you should make when working on your set design.
Overall Event Theme & Messaging
Presentation is critical, which is why set design plays such an important role. Your design should reflect the purpose and messaging of the event from general sessions and breakout rooms to the venue entrance. Maintaining a cohesive brand
throughout the space, including visuals, colors, and layout, helps create a more unified experience for your audience. Event technology supports the client’s experience, and your set design should act as the focal point that brings it all
together.
Featured image: event theme and brand is not only represented through dynamic content on screens, but also incorporated in the stage décor with LED tube fixtures.
Your Budget
The ideal technology design doesn’t have to stretch your budget, it just needs to be intentional. Focusing on key elements like screens, lighting, or scenic pieces can help create impact where it matters most. A clear budget helps guide decisions and keeps everything realistic.
Featured image: LED posters used as stage décor to intentionally highlight event sponsors.
Room and Technical Considerations
Every space is different, and your stage design should work with the room. Ceiling height, rigging capabilities, power access, and overall dimensions all play a role in what’s possible. Understanding these details early can help avoid last-minute adjustments onsite.
Featured image: event held in a historic venue that was once a train station where overhead rigging is a challenge due to high arched ceilings. The ground supported set was designed low to the floor along the horizontal lines of the room with dim room lighting to keep the audience focused and engaged on the content.
Creative Use of AV Equipment
AV elements can do more than support the show, they can be part of the design. Lighting, LED panels, and truss can all enhance the overall look when used creatively. For example, a rigged truss can double as a structural piece and a visual focal point.
Featured image: a raised platform with 3D foam letters and 3D projection mapping featured custom video content and was used as an entrance piece and photo op.
Overall Audience Experience
A great design isn’t just about how the stage looks, it’s about how it’s seen. Making sure screens are visible, content is easy to read, and lighting is balanced helps keep your audience engaged. When everyone in the room can clearly follow along, the entire production feels more seamless.
Featured image: screens placed throughout the room from front to back ensure that everyone is able to engage in the message.
