Organising events in open spaces has become increasingly popular, whether for weddings, corporate gatherings, music festivals, or private celebrations. To address this trend, our experts at Cameo Event Hire have added a new product to our event equipment hire portfolio: stretch tents. These tents have emerged as the ultimate game changer for the event industry, blending with nature to add freshness and a flexible ambience.
But what are these? Are any designs available in stretch tents, and how do they transform an event? In this blog post, we will explore the latest trends and offer expert tips for using stretch tents to transform your outdoor event into a stunning and unforgettable experience.
If you want to speak with our experts at Cameo Event Hire for top-quality stretch tents, call us on 020 8659 8000 or email us your questions at . We will respond as soon as possible.
Create unforgettable events with expertise, elegance, and excellence – Cameo Event Hire, where your vision meets perfection.
What Are Stretch Tents?
Before we proceed with design, trends and tips, let us introduce you to the stretch tent.
Unlike traditional and a frames marquee, that have a geometric shape, stretch tents are free-form or flexed tents made of high-performance, UV-resistant fabric. Their inherent flexibility allows them to be erected in many configurations, allowing them to adapt seamlessly to any environment.
Whether you want to drape a garden nestled amongst trees or provide a chic covering for a sprawling festival space, these stretch tents offer unparalleled versatility. Moreover, when you choose these tents for your outdoor event, you’ll get the following benefits:
- Aesthetic appeal: Elegant, flowing design that enhances natural light and ambience.
- Weather protection: Provides shelter from sun for all-weather comfort.
- Customisation: Available in various colours and rigging options to match event themes.
- Atmosphere: Diffuses light for a warm, inviting setting, day or night.
Stretch Tent Design Trends For Outdoor Events
Now that you know about stretch tents and their benefits for outdoor events, below are some trendy designs you can consider for your event:
1. Floating Canopy Design
Best for: Weddings, Luxury Events, Upscale Soirées
A floating luxury stretch canopy creates a visually striking effect where the tent appears to be suspended effortlessly in the air. This stretch tent design uses hidden rigging techniques and minimalist support structures, perfect for elegant occasions like wedding stretch tents, gala dinners, or high-end brand launches.
Key features
- It creates a “floating” illusion
- Works best with neutral fabric colours like white or beige.
- It is ideal for incorporating chandeliers or fairy lights.
A wedding stretch tent with a floating canopy enhances the romantic ambience.
2. Modular And Expandable Stretch Tents
Best for: Festivals, Corporate Events, Large Informal Gatherings
Modular stretch fabric tents allow event organisers to connect multiple tents for large outdoor gatherings, creating an expansive yet flexible venue. This is particularly useful for stretch marquee setups at festivals, product launches, or sporting events.
Key features
- Scalable, allowing for different event sizes and configurations
- It is ideal for creating separate zones for entertainment, dining, and networking
- Works well for branded custom tents with company logos and digital printing
3. Open-Air Stretch Tents
Best for: Garden Parties, Beach Events, Outdoor Dining
Open-air stretch tents provide an elegant and breathable solution for events that aim to connect with nature. These outdoor shelters work well for summer weddings, rustic garden parties, and coastal retreats.
Key features
- Allows unobstructed views and natural airflow
- Works well in warm weather conditions
- Complements rustic, bohemian, or minimalist décor
Pairing an open-air stretch tent hire with ambient lighting and wooden furniture enhances the natural charm of your event.
4. Illuminated Stretch Tents With LED & Projection Mapping
Best for: Night Events, Concerts, Evening Receptions
Lighting transforms outdoor event tents into magical venues, and the latest stretch tent design trends for outdoor events incorporate LED lighting and projection mapping for immersive experiences.
Key features
- Colour-changing LED strips to create mood lighting
- Projection mapping to display brand visuals or artistic effects
- Spotlights to highlight key event areas
For corporate events or concerts, illuminated luxury stretch canopies help create a dynamic and visually engaging atmosphere.
5. Hybrid Indoor-Outdoor Setups
Best for: Corporate Retreats, Conferences, Private Lounges
A growing trend in event planning is blending indoor and outdoor spaces with flexible tent structures. A stretch marquee can be an elegant extension of an indoor venue, offering guests a relaxed outdoor retreat.
Key features
- Seamless transition between indoor and outdoor event spaces
- Ideal for breakout sessions, networking areas, or VIP lounges
- It can be customised with furniture, plants, and decorative lighting
This stretch tent design works exceptionally well for high-end business events, where comfort and aesthetics are equally important.
6. Geometric And Sculptural Stretch Tents
Best for: Art Exhibitions, Luxury Fashion Shows, Exclusive Brand Events
Stretch tents are now used as custom tents with bold geometric shapes, making them a centrepiece of modern architectural design for high-end events.
Key features
- Sculptural forms that create a unique event atmosphere
- Ideal for luxury brand showcases and artistic installations
- It can be customised with bold colours and printed designs
For an avant-garde luxury tent experience, geometric stretch tents redefine what an outdoor venue can look like.
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Tips For Choosing And Setting Up A Stretch Tent Safely
Selecting and setting up outdoor event tents requires careful planning to ensure safety, comfort, and a visually stunning atmosphere. Here’s how to do it right:
1. Choose The Right Size & Configuration
The success of your event depends on selecting the correct stretch tent designs based on guest count and layout. For example, wedding stretch tents need at least 1.2m² per person for seated dining, while lounge-style setups require more space.
2. Select A Stable And Scenic Location
Find level ground to anchor your stretch tents, avoiding uneven or loose surfaces—maximise natural surroundings for an elegant luxury stretch canopy.
3. Optimise Decor And Lighting
Enhance the ambience with chandeliers, lanterns, or draped fabrics. Custom tents can incorporate flooring, and bespoke decor for a cohesive look.
4. Hire Professionals For Safe Installation
Stretch tent hire providers ensure proper rigging, stability, and compliance with safety standards. Investing in expert installation reduces risks and enhances the benefits of stretch tents for outdoor events.
Here’s how our professional installation benefited our esteemed customer, Steve Hill – we delivered and installed hard floor at his event with expert precision, ensuring proper rigging, stability, and compliance with safety standards for a seamless and stress-free event setup. Rest assured – at Cameo Event Hire, we can install a stretch tent that meets your requirements.
Conclusion
So, that’s how stretch tent designs revolutionise outdoor events with flexibility, style, and weather protection. Perfect for weddings, festivals, and corporate gatherings, they offer stunning designs like floating canopies, modular setups, and illuminated tents. These versatile structures create a visually captivating and comfortable atmosphere for any occasion.
Cameo Event Hire is your ultimate partner for creating extraordinary outdoor events. We offer:
- 33 years of expertise in event hire solutions
- Wide range of products – marquees, stretch tents, tableware, furniture, linen, and catering equipment
- Professional installation – ensuring stability and safety compliance
- Price promise – high-quality equipment at the best rates
- Trusted certifications – reliable and industry-approved services
- Dedicated customer service – support from planning to execution
Contact us today on 020 8659 8000 or email us your questions at to discuss your requirements and get a free consultation!
