Top 12 Tips from Claudia van der Werf, owner & founder of Desert River Event Rentals

One of the biggest dilemmas when planning spaces for events is keeping in mind social distancing restrictions without compromising on style and impact. After all, the most successful events are all about human connection, visual excellence and creating unforgettable experiences. Whether you are using existing furniture at a venue, renting from a professional supplier or manufacturing every piece from scratch, here’s some tips from the experts to make the most of a typical 2020 event layout.

Tip 1:

Use room dividers for a funky background while spacing the room out. Think box hedges, glass dividers or rows of illuminated sticks with a see-through effect.

Tip 2:

Consider wooden tables for a warmer look. As tables typically need to be larger and/or more spread out, wood or dark materials will make a large and light space look less institutional.

Tip 3:

Add small table lights for extra ambiance. Battery operated lamps will create the illusion of intimate candle light, without the mess and the safety issues of real candles.

Tip 4:

Greenery adds freshness to the space. And yes, it’s ok to fake it – artificial plants and hedges will have the same effect.

Tip 5:

Combine soft materials with smooth surfaces for a textured and varied look. Think sheepskin rugs with glossy wood, velvet chairs with metal tables, or squishy bean bags with minimalist side tables.

Tip 6:

Use modular sofas systems for spacious and comfortable seating. Your furniture supplier can help you design the most optimal set up, you’ll be amazed by the endless possibilities.

Tip 7:

Add oversized standing lamps for visual interest and atmospheric lighting. And we mean really oversized – some of the floor lamps in our collection are true objects of art.

Tip 8:

Mix and match pieces to create different zones. Low lounge seating in one area, high tables in another. That way your guest can gather where they feel most comfortable.

Tip 9:

Make use of your supplier’s rendering services to design the optimal layout. Sometimes you just need a few cool visuals before making a decision about furniture. With our 3D software we can help you to better understand the effect of different set ups.

Tip 10:

Seating islands are a great solution for large venues – indoors or out. You can get creative by turning seats outwards or at a different angle, and fill gaps in the middle with tall lamps or plants.

Tip 11:

Accessorize! Add plants and decorative cushions as finishing touches. OK, nothing new here perhaps, but details are so important if you want your guests to not feel lost in a space.

Tip 12:

Funky individual lounge chairs with large coffee tables are a great solution for smaller spaces. Not everybody might be happy about sharing a sofa space with a total stranger these days. Individual seats need not be boring – opt for cool designs with a swivel base for easy communication.

Claudia van der Werf is the owner and founder of Dubai based Desert River Event Rentals. Originally from the Netherlands, she has lived in the UAE for the last 18 years. Claudia is a qualified interior architect with a passion for contemporary furniture and design.

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