Standalone Marquee vs. Scalable Tent: Which Suits Your Event?
Planning an outdoor event in Singapore requires more than just a good guest list and delicious catering. The type of tentages in Singapore you choose can significantly affect the atmosphere, comfort and overall success of your celebration. Whether you’re organising a garden wedding, corporate gathering or community festival, selecting between a standalone marquee and a scalable tent is a key decision that deserves careful consideration. Both tent types offer unique advantages, so let’s explore which one might be a better fit for your event.
Understanding the Standalone Marquee
The standalone marquee consists of Mongolia, Hexagon, Octagon and Dodecagon.
The Mongolia marquee is the most commonly seen, and its 4-sided shape allows joining of other Mongolia marquees in different directions to form unique shapes. The versatility of the Standalone marquee means that it can also be used on its own by placing different Mongolias at different points.
The Mongolia marquee is a traditional yet versatile choice. With a high peaked roof and open side panels, it offers a classic look that can be dressed up or down depending on the theme of your event. These tents are particularly popular for wedding receptions and formal dinners due to their elegant silhouette and spacious interior. The high ceilings also provide a sense of grandeur, making the space feel open and inviting.
When it comes to customisation, Mongolia marquees offer plenty of flexibility. You can line the interior with fabric drapes, add chandeliers for a touch of luxury or incorporate fairy lights for evening events. They also pair well with event furnishings, especially when using curated options like wedding chair rentals to maintain a consistent aesthetic throughout the venue.
Why a scalable tent might be your style
As its name says, it can be scalable in length to fit a larger group of crowds or activities. Some examples of scalable tents consist of A-shape, Dome-shape, Single slope and Half-Dome tents.
These tents give off a contemporary vibe, making them ideal for corporate events, product launches, brand activations and mega festivals. Choosing the right tent size is crucial, and scalable tents come in various width and length to suit both intimate and large-scale events.
One of the standout features of large scalable tents is their structural strength. The engineered design distributes stress evenly, allowing the tent to remain stable even during heavy downpours or gusty conditions. If your event setup includes expensive audio-visual equipment or sensitive displays, the dome tent’s robust construction provides added reassurance.
Furthermore, scalable tents can be transformed into striking focal points. With LED lighting and projection mapping, organisers can turn the clear-span interior into a multisensory experience. They also work well with stylish seating options like chameleon chairs, creating a cohesive and high-end feel for upscale events.
Space and layout considerations
Both standalone marquees and scalable tents offer spacious interiors, but the shape of each structure affects how you can lay out your event. The squarish design of a Mongolia marquee provides a straightforward floor plan, similar to an A-shape or Dome-shape tent. This is especially useful for events involving long banquet tables, buffet lines or stage setups. It simplifies the process of arranging tables and chairs, particularly if you’re aiming for a symmetrical or formal layout.
Hexagon & Octagon marquee feature a circular layout, which encourages more fluid and informal arrangements. This can be beneficial for interactive events or exhibitions, where you want guests to move freely around installations or stations. However, it might be trickier to place square or rectangular furniture without creating awkward gaps or angles.
Ease of setup and location flexibility
Singapore’s urban and green spaces offer a range of venue options, from beachside lawns to rooftop gardens. Petite-sized marquee such as Mongolia, Dome walkway or Half-dome tents are typically easier and quicker to install, making it suitable for locations with limited access or tight timelines. Its modest design means you can add or remove sections based on your guest count or site constraints.
Large tents like Dodecagon or A-shape tents often require more time and manpower to erect, given their complex structure. However, their visual impact often justifies the extra effort, especially if your event is in a high-traffic or photogenic area like Sports Hub or Gardens by the Bay. They also hold up well in exposed areas, making them a practical choice for long-duration events or outdoor exhibitions.
Which suits your event better?
Choosing between a standalone marquee and a scalable tent ultimately depends on the nature and goals of your event. If you’re looking for timeless elegance and customised layout planning, the standalone marquee is an excellent choice. It suits intimate weddings, festivals and community events where a touch of class is appreciated.
If you want a modern, standout structure with strong weather resistance and unique interior possibilities, the scalable tent may be more your style. It’s particularly fitting for corporate, sports events, or immersive installations that aim to impress.
Conclusion
Regardless of your pick, ensuring that your tent is styled and furnished appropriately can elevate the entire guest experience. Matching your tent with the right tables and chairs or opting for eye-catching pieces like chameleon chairs can make a big visual difference while keeping guests comfortable.
For reliable, professional support in tentage and event setup, trust Nanyang Inc to help bring your vision to life. Explore our wide range of tent options and event solutions and let us make your event a memorable one.