We were approached by Outbound to support the delivery of an exhibition stand for HP (Hewlett-Packard). Having worked together on a number of projects over the years, we have built a strong working relationship based on trust, collaboration and a shared understanding of what it takes to deliver successful, unique and engaging exhibition spaces. This project was another opportunity to combine our production and installation expertise with Outbound’s creative vision to bring the stand to life.
The brief consisted of three key elements:
a large stand within the main exhibition hall, a smaller stand on the upper level to serve as a meeting and office space, and a branded archway positioned above the front desk. Working from reference imagery and a clear objective to achieve the appearance of a custom-built stand, we carefully planned how our beMatrix system could be utilised as the foundation of the structure.
The challenge was to create clean, angled walls that felt bespoke while incorporating striking bands of HP blue throughout the design. Through thoughtful frame planning and detailing, we were able to achieve the desired look while retaining the flexibility and efficiency of a modular build system.
With two substantial stands being built simultaneously, the project required careful coordination and efficient use of resources. We were fortunate to be supported during the build by Jamie Ellis from Spiral Creative, whose assistance proved invaluable in helping the team deliver both stands successfully within the available build schedule.
Much of the work on a project of this scale happens long before the site build begins.
As many of the graphics were applied individually, every element had to be printed and prepared as a separate vinyl application. We then applied backing tape to each piece, allowing intricate lettering and smaller graphic elements to be installed accurately without shifting or losing alignment. While it can be a time-consuming process, this preparation is essential for achieving the crisp, professional finish seen on the completed stand. And while the work itself wasn't all that complex it was time consuming.
Several elements were prepared ahead of the event, including the slatted counter, which was custom-built in-house by Richard and featured integrated lighting and hidden cable management for the displayed products.
The counters also incorporated preserved moss panels, painted to achieve the vibrant green colour shown in the reference imagery. Using preserved moss allowed us to achieve the desired look without the maintenance requirements of live foliage.
Build day is always more work than you expect, and this project was no exception. To achieve the seamless finish required by the design, the entire stand was wrapped in white vinyl to conceal the beMatrix framework beneath. Every logo, graphic, photograph and piece of text then had to be carefully measured and applied on site. With two large stands being installed simultaneously, careful planning and teamwork were essential to keep everything on schedule. To complete the stand, a large hanging lightbox was suspended above the structure, helping draw visitors in from across the exhibition hall and giving the space the sense of scale the client was looking for.
Working on this project for Outbound encouraged us to look at creating seamless finishes on a large scale and how to take a reusable system like beMatrix panels and utilise them in a unique way.
Its clear to say that this stand is a perfect example as to why the details matter so much, if this was just a regular stand it wouldn't feel the same.
"Stunning quality and build as always, thank you for always being the partners that you are."
Tracy Patient - Head: Channel Marketing, Outbound Ltd.
