An in-depth look at how stretch tent operators are pushing the boundaries with extraordinary rigging configurations, using RHI-manufactured structures.
What makes a rigging configuration extraordinary?
- Some tents are small, but creatively rigged using untraditional pole lengths. This creates a captivating effect through a focal masterpiece that aims to “wow” event guests.
- Setups in unconventional locations that weren’t possible before stretch tents came onto the scene.
- Then there are the so-called mega structures, our focus point in this article.
Mega structures in South Africa
A mega structure is the linking of multiple (stretch) tents to form a covered area in excess of 1 000m².
Expert tip: Extreme rigging is only advised for setups in areas with zero wind, ideal weather conditions and by highly experienced riggers.
Our love of megastructures is not only kindled by our obsession with stretch tents, but also through bearing witness to the experienced rigging that accompanies their setup.
Stretch tent megastructures is the ultimate demonstration of the extreme strength of RHI tents’ fabric and manufacturing expertise.
Let’s look at a setup in action at a conference in Sun City, South Africa.
The Saphila 2014 setup: 1 500m²
This setup used a combination of a 22m x 30m tent linked to smaller tents ranging from 20 x 15m to 15 x 7.5m, creating a structure of over 1 500m².
It’s a fantastic example of the modular nature of RHI stretch tents, and the linking capabilities when using gutters.
Multiple stretch tent in different sizes: 1 600m²
Here we look at a spectacular mix of different sized, chino-coloured stretch tents linked together, creating a 1 600m² structure.
A key point to note here is the internal down rig system at strategic points in order to achieve such a huge span. An eye-catching feature of this linking style is the “scalloped” natural lighting effect achieved through the tent joins.
We congratulate our experienced stretch tent operators and partners for their vision and expertise in achieving these exceptional rigging configurations.
Need expert help or advice? Get in touch with one of our seasoned specialists.
Disclaimer
Safety is a fundamental priority with any tent setup, and as a stretch tent manufacturer with years of experience, we must bring to your attention that we do not promote or encourage that rigging crews new to the stretch tent business attempt such large setups.