Many of the temporary structures people make use of are far from unusual. Just about everyone will have encountered stands with temporary seating, temporary stages, plus all kinds of tents and domes used for shows, parties and weddings.
However, there are some unusual structures out there that may be far less familiar to many people.
Large domes and tents
In many ways, the most unusual structures are merely so in appearance, with the development of new lightweight materials providing alternatives to canvas. As a result, the traditional shape of tents in conical (teepee) or elongated pyramid form just one of several options. Large, expansive shapes with curved exteriors are now available and in-vogue. Some can even look like UFOs.
With new materials come other advantages, such as ease of assembly and more waterproof quantities, making the heavy canvas marquee with its occasional dripping roof and puddle-strewn entrances a thing of the past.
Domes can be used in similar ways, or even used to provide microclimates, such as indoor arenas that mimic the conditions in which winter sports like skiing are staged.
Inflatables
There was a time when inflatables helped people swim or make an exhibition of themselves at a football match, but they have increasingly been used as temporary structures at exhibitions or festivals.
This can include displays at shows or even mini pitches. For example, at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow the area outside the Hockey arena had mini pitches with inflatable sides and goals, where children could have a go at the sport themselves.
Being lightweight, shrinkable and mobile, they are ideal for temporary use.
Artistic benefits
The other advantage of unusual and innovative structures is their aesthetic appeal. As mentioned above, they can come in unusual shapes, but there are also more opportunities to use innovative styles and colour in conjunction. Indeed, as many plastic-based materials are translucent, they can stand out very well during events that take place – or continue – after dark, such as music festivals.
In conclusion, the development of innovative and unusual temporary structures means they have moved beyond mere utility function, with a capacity to impress while enhancing levels of user-friendliness.
