ENGINEERING PERFORMANCE SCENERY FOR TERHAL BY DRAGONE

In 2023, Evolution Scenic was selected by Dragone to fabricate custom scenic elements for Terhal in Diriyah, Riyadh. The commission required visually authentic scenery that could also perform reliably within a demanding live-production environment.

The creative concepts were supplied by the client, with Evolution Scenic responsible for translating them into practical, production-ready scenic pieces. This involved developing the construction, structural approach and operational details needed for repeated use during rehearsals and performances.

The scope included six Saudi street-market carts and a traditional Arabian land-abra. The market carts were designed to function as parkour obstacles, requiring sufficient strength, stability and mobility for direct performer interaction.

The land-abra was engineered to move under its own power while maintaining the appearance of a traditional Arabian boat. Across the scope, structural engineering, mobility, performer interaction and scenic authenticity were central to the fabrication process.

BUILDING SIX STEEL-FRAMED PARKOUR CARTS

The six market carts were developed to preserve the visual character and traditional appearance of Saudi street-market furniture while also providing the structural strength required for demanding live performance use. Their construction needed to support repeated performer interaction and physical movement without affecting the overall scenic look of the finished pieces.

Evolution Scenic fabricated the primary internal frameworks using 48 mm diameter mild-steel pipe, creating a strong and reliable structural core for each cart. This steel framework carried the required performance loads while allowing the decorative scenic surfaces to be developed independently around the supporting structure.

Plywood, MDF and timber were applied over the steel framework to establish the external profiles, panels and recognisable market-cart forms. Fibreglass, foam, fabric and acrylic were also incorporated where appropriate to create shaped details, lightweight decorative components and additional scenic features required by the supplied concepts.

This combination of metalwork, carpentry, composite materials and scenic fabrication allowed each material to serve a specific structural or visual purpose. The completed carts retained the appearance of traditional timber-built market objects while incorporating a substantially reinforced internal construction suitable for parkour performance and repeated use within the production environment.

DESIGNING FOR PERFORMER LOADS

The distinctive feature of the market carts was their role as active parkour obstacles within the performance. Performers were expected to climb, jump, land and interact directly with the structures, creating significantly different demands compared with conventional decorative scenic furniture.

To support this level of physical interaction, the carts required a strong and stable internal construction capable of handling the intended performance loads. At the same time, they needed to remain mobile and practical for movement within the production environment without losing their traditional scenic appearance.

Evolution Scenic used 48 mm diameter mild-steel pipe as the main structural framework, providing the reinforced core required for the carts' performance function. Load limits formed part of the technical considerations, ensuring that the scenic elements were approached as functional performance structures rather than lightweight decorative props.

This combination of scenic appearance and engineered strength demonstrates the difference between conventional scenic fabrication and performance-focused scenic engineering. What appeared on stage as a traditional market cart incorporated a more substantial internal structure, allowing it to function reliably as part of the performers' physical environment.

DEVELOPING THE SCENIC SURFACES

With the structural framework completed, Evolution Scenic developed the visible forms of the scenic elements using plywood, MDF and timber. These materials were shaped and applied around the engineered structures to establish the required profiles, panels and traditional visual character of the finished pieces.

Fibreglass, foam, fabric and acrylic were incorporated where the scenic design required more detailed, lightweight or shaped decorative components. Combining these materials allowed the fabrication team to create varied forms and textures while maintaining a consistent overall appearance across the scenic elements.

Scenic painting, distressing, textured coatings and timber staining were then used to visually unify the different construction materials. These finishing techniques helped create depth, variation and a more authentic aged appearance rather than allowing the newly fabricated surfaces to appear overly clean or factory-produced.

Careful variations in colour, timber tone, texture and surface treatment helped reinforce the traditional character required by the supplied creative concepts. The completed scenic surfaces therefore combined a strong engineered construction beneath with a detailed, deliberately aged exterior suitable for close performer interaction and live theatrical presentation.

TURNING A GOLF BUGGY INTO AN ARABIAN BOAT

The second major fabrication challenge was the creation of the land-abra, which needed to operate as a moving scenic element rather than a static boat prop. Evolution Scenic transformed an existing golf buggy into a traditional Arabian boat capable of travelling through the performance environment under its own power.

The golf buggy provided the underlying vehicle platform, including the basic propulsion, steering and braking functions required for controlled movement. Around this operational base, Evolution Scenic fabricated the boat structure using a combination of mild-steel framing, timber, plywood and fibreglass.

A key part of the fabrication process was integrating the vehicle and the scenic boat body as one functional assembly. The finished scenic shell needed to conceal the recognisable golf-buggy form while maintaining access to the operating components and allowing the steering and braking systems to function effectively.

Once completed, the transformed vehicle could move through the performance area as a convincing Arabian land-abra while retaining the practical control of the golf buggy beneath it. This approach combined scenic fabrication, structural integration and vehicle functionality to create a self-powered theatrical boat suitable for live performance.

INTEGRATING STRUCTURE, MOVEMENT AND FINISH

The land-abra demonstrated how the functional requirements of a moving scenic element directly influenced its construction. Unlike a static boat prop designed mainly around shape and appearance, the golf-buggy-based land-abra required careful coordination between its scenic form and its operational vehicle components.

The supporting structure was developed using mild-steel framing, while timber and plywood formed much of the visible scenic body. Fibreglass was incorporated to create additional boat profiles and shaped details without depending entirely on heavier timber construction.

Because the land-abra needed to move through the performance environment, the construction also required consideration of weight distribution, structural interfaces and access around the existing golf buggy. The supporting framework and scenic body therefore had to work together without restricting steering, braking or general vehicle operation.

Scenic paint, textured coatings, timber staining and distressing were applied to visually unify the different construction materials into one convincing traditional boat form. The final result brought structure, movement and scenic finishing together as a single functional assembly, allowing the land-abra to maintain its theatrical appearance while operating reliably during the performance.

ADAPTING THE PROPS DURING REHEARSALS

Rehearsals became an important stage in refining the performance behaviour of the scenic pieces under actual show conditions. The uneven, sand-like performance surface affected how the wheeled market carts moved, responded and stopped during repeated use within the production environment.

Evolution Scenic adjusted the carts by modifying and refining the caster wheels and manual braking arrangements. These changes improved control and allowed the carts to move more predictably across the textured floor while remaining suitable for performer interaction and carefully coordinated stage movement.

The land-abra also required adjustments to its braking behaviour during rehearsals. Because the golf buggy was being used as a theatrical stage vehicle, its stopping and manoeuvring characteristics needed to work accurately with the movement patterns and timing required by the production.

These rehearsal-based refinements helped ensure that the moving scenic elements performed reliably within the actual venue rather than only under workshop conditions. The process demonstrated the importance of testing mobility, braking and control on the final performance surface, where textured flooring, performer movement and precise stage cues could directly influence the behaviour of each scenic element.

DELIVERING WITHIN A TWENTY-DAY PROGRAMME

The Evolution Scenic scope was delivered within a confirmed 20-day programme, requiring close coordination across fabrication, finishing and production activities. Within this limited timeframe, multiple technical disciplines had to progress efficiently while maintaining the structural and scenic requirements of the Terhal performance elements.

The six market carts required the fabrication of reinforced mild-steel frameworks, followed by the construction of timber-based scenic bodies and the application of specialist scenic finishes. Metal fabrication, carpentry, composite work and surface treatment therefore had to be carefully coordinated to keep each cart progressing through the workshop without unnecessary delays.

The land-abra introduced an additional technical challenge because an operational golf buggy had to be integrated within a custom-built scenic boat structure. Steel framing, timber, plywood and fibreglass construction needed to be developed around the vehicle while maintaining its movement, steering and braking functions before the completed piece could enter rehearsals.

Once completed, the scenic elements were delivered into the production environment for movement checks, rehearsal use and final operational adjustments. Floor protection formed part of the site requirements while moving and testing the substantial steel-framed pieces, helping ensure that installation and rehearsal activities could proceed efficiently throughout the 20-day delivery programme.

PERFORMANCE SCENIC FABRICATION IN PRACTICE

The Terhal project demonstrates the technical depth required to transform traditional-looking scenic objects into fully functional performance elements. What appeared on stage as familiar market carts and an Arabian boat incorporated engineered structures, moving systems and carefully developed scenic finishes beneath their visible surfaces.

The six market carts combined mild-steel framing with plywood, MDF, timber and additional scenic materials to create strong performance structures suitable for direct physical interaction. Fibreglass, foam, fabric and acrylic were incorporated where required to develop shaped details while maintaining the intended visual character of the client-supplied concepts.

The land-abra followed a similar approach by combining a functioning golf buggy with a custom scenic boat structure. Its construction needed to support steering, braking and controlled movement while the scenic body concealed the vehicle beneath and maintained the appearance of a traditional Arabian boat during the performance.

Scenic painting, distressing, textured coatings and timber staining completed the visual transformation of the engineered assemblies. The finished result brought together custom scenic fabrication, structural engineering, mobility and specialist finishing, allowing the scenery to operate as an active and reliable part of the Terhal production rather than simply serving as a static background.

Transforming the Saadiyat Rotana Ballroom for Ghadan 21

Ghadan 21 – The Gathering took place at Saadiyat Rotana Hotel in Abu Dhabi from 19–21 March 2019.

The programme required the hotel ballroom to support several formats over three days, including collaborative workshops, auditorium presentations, panel sessions and a final awards presentation. Rather than treating these as unrelated areas, the scenic approach needed to establish one connected temporary environment.

Evolution Scenic developed the production details from a client-supplied concept and delivered the scenic fabrication and installation package.

The completed environment combined a central presentation stage with surrounding workshop zones, graphic walls, display structures, directional elements and architectural branding. Technical systems supplied by Evolution Technical and furniture supplied by Evolution Furniture were incorporated into the wider layout.

Developing the Scenic Package from a Supplied Concept

The client-supplied concept established the overall visual direction, but the individual elements still needed to be converted into buildable scenic components. This required the development of practical dimensions, internal frames, material build-ups, modular junctions and interfaces with technical equipment.

The central stage was the primary focal point. Its composition included a raised deck, carpeted steps, scenic backdrop walls, red LED screen surrounds, dimensional lettering and a linear speech-inspired detail. Each part needed to align with the others. The stage deck established the finished floor level, the scenic walls created the overall elevation, and the red surrounds defined the position and proportions of the technical screens.

The dimensional lettering and acrylic detailing added physical depth to the graphic composition. These elements allowed the backdrop to operate as a constructed scenic elevation rather than as a flat printed surface.

Building the Main Presentation Environment

The stage deck and steps were fabricated as temporary structural scenic elements. The deck provided a level presentation surface and supported the visual relationship between the speakers, lecterns, screen content and scenic backdrop. Carpet was applied to create a consistent finished surface and to connect the stage with the designated floor areas in the ballroom.

Behind the stage, modular timber- and metal-framed walls formed the central backdrop. The visible surfaces were clad using MDF and plywood, creating smooth substrates for PU paint, printed panels, vinyl graphics and dimensional detailing. Strong red scenic sections framed the LED screens. These surrounds needed to be fabricated around the dimensions and installation requirements of the equipment supplied by Evolution Technical.

Accurate workshop production was important because inconsistent apertures, edges or panel lines would have remained visible around the illuminated screens. The screen surrounds also needed to retain sufficient access for technical installation, adjustment and cable routing. The visible scenic finish could therefore only be completed in coordination with the technical system behind it. Custom lecterns were placed within the same visual language as the stage, allowing the furniture used for presentations to appear as part of the scenic architecture.

Creating Functional Zones Around the Ballroom

The project extended beyond the main stage. Large perimeter graphic walls were installed around the ballroom to organise the wider floor plan and provide visual separation between workshop and presentation functions.

These freestanding scenic walls carried printed information and project graphics while also operating as temporary architectural partitions. Their scale helped convert the open ballroom into a series of more clearly defined working areas.

Monitor surrounds and display stations were positioned within the workshop environment. Evolution Technical supplied the monitors, while Evolution Scenic created the scenic structures and graphic surfaces around them.

This division of responsibility required accurate coordination. Monitor openings, supporting surfaces and cable routes needed to correspond with the supplied equipment without leaving the technical components visually disconnected from the scenic environment.

Workshop counters provided practical surfaces within the individual zones. Evolution Furniture supplied the workshop tables and furniture, which were arranged within the scenic layout alongside Evolution Scenic’s fabricated walls, counters and displays.

Directional signage helped visitors move between the stage, workshops and circulation areas. Rather than treating the signs as separate additions, the graphic and dimensional elements were coordinated with the wider scenic identity.

Fabricating the Architectural Entrance Feature

An entrance or photographic feature incorporating architectural skyline forms established the project identity before the main ballroom environment. The layered skyline shapes reflected the urban planning context of the programme while functioning as a temporary scenic feature.

Fabricated using framed sheet materials, painted surfaces, printed graphics and dimensional components, the entrance feature provided a transition between the hotel circulation areas and the constructed environment inside the ballroom. 

Its freestanding format also allowed it to be positioned without permanent intervention into the hotel architecture. The feature was planned as temporary scenery: stable during use, compatible with the available access route and removable at the end of the programme.

Modular Workshop Construction

The major scenic structures were fabricated as modular workshop-built sections. This approach was important because hotel access routes, working periods and on-site construction conditions can restrict the size of components and the type of work that can be undertaken inside a finished venue. Building the scenery in the workshop allowed the frames, cladding, paint finishes and graphic applications to be completed in a controlled production environment.

The central walls, red screen surrounds, graphic partitions, display stations and entrance feature could then be divided into transportable sections. Connection points were incorporated into the construction so that adjacent modules could be aligned and secured on site. Panel joints and fixing positions needed to remain discreet once the complete elevation had been assembled.

Modularity also supported the phased installation requirement. Different areas of the ballroom could be delivered and assembled according to the agreed sequence rather than requiring every component to arrive simultaneously.

Coordinating Scenic, Technical and Furniture Packages

The project brought together three specialist Evolution divisions. Evolution Scenic was responsible for the scenic construction, including the stage, walls, surrounds, entrance feature, dimensional branding, graphic structures, counters, display stations, signage and floor finishes.

Evolution Technical supplied the LED screens, monitors, truss, lighting and audiovisual equipment.

Evolution Furniture supplied the workshop tables and associated furniture. The visual success of the ballroom depended on these packages operating as a single environment.

Screen surrounds needed to align with the supplied displays. Monitor stations needed to accommodate the correct equipment. Scenic walls and overhead elements needed to respect truss positions and rigging restrictions. Workshop furniture needed to fit within the circulation routes and spaces established by the partitions. This coordination allowed the technical equipment and functional furniture to appear integrated rather than added after the scenic environment had been completed.

Installing Within a Finished Hotel Ballroom

The scenic package was installed through a phased programme. Individual scenic modules were delivered to the ballroom and assembled according to the planned sequence. The stage deck and primary structural elements established the main levels and reference points before the central scenic walls and screen surrounds were completed.

Technical truss and audiovisual systems had to be coordinated alongside the scenic installation. The exact sequencing of particular systems has not been supplied, but the confirmed phased requirement meant that the working areas and access routes needed to remain controlled throughout the build.

The existing hotel finishes introduced additional responsibilities. Floors and walls were protected while scenery, tools and technical equipment were transported and positioned. Large modular sections required careful handling within the venue to prevent contact with finished surfaces.

Rigging restrictions also affected the integration of scenic and overhead technical systems. The temporary environment could not rely on unrestricted suspension or fixing into the existing hotel structure. Freestanding scenic construction, controlled support positions and coordination with the approved truss system therefore formed important parts of the installation approach.

Dismantling the Complete Environment

The entire scenic environment was temporary and was dismantled after the three-day programme. The modular construction approach supported this requirement. Walls, screen surrounds, display structures and entrance features could be separated into their original sections and removed from the ballroom in a controlled sequence.

Technical equipment and furniture also needed to be released from the integrated layout before the final scenic elements were removed. Venue protection remained relevant during the dismantling process. Floor coverings, wall protection and controlled material routes helped reduce the risk of damage as the large scenic package left the hotel. The ballroom could then be returned to its normal configuration without retaining permanent elements from the installation.

A Coordinated Temporary Working Environment

The completed scenic package transformed the Saadiyat Rotana Ballroom from an open hotel function room into a structured temporary environment. The main stage provided a strong presentation setting through the combination of carpeted levels, red screen surrounds, scenic backdrop walls, dimensional branding and integrated technical equipment.

Perimeter walls, workshop counters, furniture, display stations and signage created the supporting working environment around it. The architectural entrance feature established a clear arrival point, while the repeated materials, colours and graphics connected the individual elements across the venue.

Behind the finished appearance was a coordinated process involving scenic detailing, modular fabrication, technical integration, phased installation, venue protection and complete dismantling.

The project demonstrates Evolution Scenic’s ability to convert a supplied design concept into a practical scenic construction package suited to the operational restrictions of a finished hotel venue.

Custom Scenic Fabrication For The Montenegro Pavilion

The Montenegro Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai marked Montenegro’s National Day with a bespoke exhibit designed and installed by Evolution Scenic. The project combined custom scenic fabrication with traditional joinery, specialist finishing and contemporary acrylic lighting. The fabricated elements were designed to integrate with the existing pavilion while introducing a distinctive physical feature to the environment.

Evolution Scenic delivered a custom scenic table constructed from a timber structure with MDF cladding and a PU paint finish, together with a clear acrylic lighting installation. The combination of painted scenic construction and transparent illuminated fabrication created a multi-material installation that brought together several different areas of scenic manufacturing.

Turning A Pavilion Design Into Fabricated Scenery

The exhibit needed to integrate with the existing Montenegro Pavilion while maintaining a modern and refined appearance. The main scenic table therefore needed to function as a purpose-built fabricated element rather than standard exhibition furniture.

Its timber structure provided the underlying support, while MDF cladding established the finished external surfaces. The MDF was subsequently finished with PU paint, creating a smooth and controlled surface treatment across the visible scenic construction. The project also introduced a clear acrylic lighting feature. This required a separate fabrication approach in which the acrylic itself formed part of the visible illuminated installation. The result was an exhibit that combined solid fabricated forms with a transparent lighting element.

The original Evolution Scenic project description confirms that the exhibit was intended to enhance the existing pavilion and combined traditional joinery methods with contemporary lighting and acrylic fabrication.

Fabricating The Scenic Table

The main scenic table was constructed using a timber structural framework. Timber provided the supporting structure required to establish the overall form of the fabricated table. MDF cladding was then applied to create the visible scenic surfaces.

This construction method allowed the structural framework and finished scenic surface to perform different roles within the same component. The MDF provided a clean surface that could be prepared for the final PU paint treatment. The finished paintwork gave the fabricated table the controlled appearance required within the pavilion.

The construction demonstrates a typical scenic approach in which a structural framework supports a fabricated outer skin that can then be prepared and finished to a higher visual standard. The table was therefore developed as a complete scenic object, combining structural joinery, cladding and decorative finishing rather than relying on off-the-shelf furniture construction.

Fabricating The Acrylic Lighting Feature

Alongside the scenic table, Evolution Scenic delivered a lighting installation fabricated using clear acrylic. The acrylic provided a transparent physical element for the lighting feature, allowing the illumination to become part of the scenic construction. This introduced a contrasting material to the timber and MDF table.

Where the table relied on solid scenic construction and painted surfaces, the acrylic feature used transparency and illumination to produce a lighter visual treatment. Clear acrylic can also provide a clean edge and controlled visual appearance when used within illuminated scenic fabrication, making it appropriate for contemporary exhibition and pavilion environments.

The original project source specifically confirms the use of specialised acrylic lighting elements and identifies acrylic fabrication and contemporary lighting as part of the fabrication approach.

Combining Joinery, Scenic Finishing And Acrylic Fabrication

The Montenegro Pavilion installation brought several fabrication disciplines together. The timber structure formed the foundation of the custom table. MDF cladding established the visible scenic surfaces, while the PU paint finish completed the external appearance. The acrylic lighting installation introduced a separate fabrication technique, using clear acrylic to create a transparent illuminated element. Each material therefore had a distinct role within the completed installation.

The timber provided structure. The MDF provided the scenic skin. The PU paint created the finished surface. The clear acrylic provided the physical basis for the illuminated feature. Bringing these different materials together required the fabrication to be considered as a complete scenic installation rather than a collection of unrelated components.

The original project description similarly identifies the combination of traditional joinery, contemporary lighting and acrylic fabrication as a defining feature of the work.

Working Within The Existing Pavilion Environment

The completed exhibit was installed within the Montenegro Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai. The fabricated elements therefore needed to work within an existing pavilion environment rather than being developed as a standalone scenic installation. The original project source describes the exhibit as integrating with the existing pavilion and aligning with its overall design language.

This made the finished quality of the fabrication particularly important. The painted MDF surfaces of the table needed to read as finished architectural scenic elements, while the clear acrylic lighting installation needed to sit comfortably alongside the solid fabricated construction.

The combination of materials created visual contrast while maintaining a coherent overall installation. The supplied information does not confirm specific site restrictions, installation duration, access arrangements, crew numbers or transportation methodology, so these details have not been added.

Delivering A Finished Pavilion Installation

The completed scenic elements were delivered and installed for Montenegro’s National Day celebration at Expo 2020 Dubai. The final installation brought together the custom scenic table and clear acrylic lighting feature within the pavilion environment. The table provided the principal solid fabricated element, combining timber construction, MDF cladding and PU paint finishing.

The acrylic installation provided a contrasting transparent and illuminated element. The completed exhibit therefore demonstrated Evolution Scenic’s ability to move from scenic construction and joinery through to specialist surface finishing and acrylic fabrication within a single project.

A Multi-Material Scenic Installation

The Montenegro Pavilion project demonstrates how a relatively focused exhibit can involve several distinct areas of scenic manufacture. The timber structure established the supporting construction of the main table. MDF cladding created the visible scenic form, while the PU paint finish established the final surface treatment.

Clear acrylic introduced another fabrication discipline through the illuminated installation. Together, these components created a cohesive temporary scenic environment that combined solid architectural fabrication with transparent illuminated scenery.

The project demonstrates Evolution Scenic’s capability in custom scenic construction, joinery, scenic finishing and specialist acrylic fabrication, while maintaining a consistent finished standard across different materials. The completed installation provided the Montenegro Pavilion with a bespoke fabricated exhibit that combined practical scenic construction with contemporary lighting and material treatment.

Building Santa’s Sustainable House at Expo City Dubai

Santa’s Sustainable House was created for Winter City 2023 at Expo City Dubai as a complete festive environment built around sustainable materials and immersive scenic construction. The original attraction combined Christmas storytelling with sustainability education inside a visually detailed interactive house.

Evolution Scenic designed, fabricated and installed the entire freestanding temporary structure.

The delivery extended beyond the visible front elevation. It included the primary house construction, multiple roof profiles, artificial-snow finishes, entrance architecture, windows, doors, fencing, access ramps, interior walls and ceilings, a fireplace environment, decorative timber beams, custom furniture, storage joinery, workshop tables, Christmas trees, wrapped presents, detailed props, flooring, lighting and electrical systems.

The result needed to feel like one coherent house, even though it was constructed as a temporary modular scenic installation.

Fabricating the Festive Exterior

The external façade combined a varied roofline with shaped gables, painted wall sections, framed openings and strong red and green detailing. Artificial-snow treatments were applied across the roof profiles to create the winter appearance. The snow finish also visually connected roof sections that differed in height and shape.

The entrance was developed as a principal scenic feature. Candy-cane columns framed the doorway, while the Santa’s Sustainable House sign established a clear focal point above the opening. Windows and doors were treated as architectural components within the façade rather than simply applied graphics. Contrasting surrounds, painted trims and adjacent decorative details gave the elevation additional depth.

Picket fencing enclosed the exterior areas and helped define the footprint of the attraction. Access ramps were incorporated into the installation, connecting the surrounding area to the raised temporary house.

The exterior needed to work at two scales. From a distance, the roof silhouette, entrance sign and colour palette established the identity of the building. At closer range, the layered trims, artificial snow, windows, doors, candy-cane columns and scenic decorations provided the detail expected from an immersive attraction.

Using Materials as Part of the Visual Language

The material palette included timber-based construction, OSB-style panels, painted sheet materials and applied scenic finishes. The OSB-style surfaces were not treated only as concealed structural material. Their visible texture supported the workshop character and contributed to the sustainability-led appearance of the interior.

This allowed the material choice to become part of the storytelling. Areas that required a cleaner architectural finish received painted surfaces, while selected textured panels retained a more practical fabricated appearance. Timber-based construction also provided flexibility across the complete scope. Similar workshop methods could be used for structural modules, shaped roof components, façade profiles, shelves, worktables, storage units and other custom joinery.

The project incorporated reused or recycled materials. Exact material percentages and product specifications have not been supplied, so the case study does not assign recycled content to specific components. Energy-efficient LED lighting formed the second confirmed sustainability measure. The lighting was integrated into the temporary house to support both the exterior identity and the internal scenic environment.

Creating a Complete Interior Workshop

The interior was constructed as a sequence of detailed scenic settings. Walls and ceilings enclosed the environment, while exposed timber-style beams and OSB-style surfaces established the architectural character. Painted areas, red window treatments and carefully positioned decorative elements introduced contrast across the rooms.

One of the principal spaces resembled a working office or workshop. A substantial timber worktable occupied the centre of the setting, supported by storage units, shelves, display surfaces and small scenic props. The furniture and joinery were proportioned to the room and positioned as part of the complete visual composition.

Wall-mounted materials, shelving and decorative objects created depth around the central table. Rather than leaving large areas of undecorated wall, the interior used multiple fabricated and dressed surfaces to create the appearance of an active working environment.

Evolution Furniture supported the furniture package, while Evolution Prop Shop contributed to the decorative content and detailed dressing. These specialist elements were coordinated with the scenic build rather than added without reference to the architecture. Shelves, counters and tables were positioned according to the room layout, sightlines and circulation requirements.

Constructing the Fireplace Setting

A separate interior area was organised around a brick-effect feature wall and decorative fireplace.

The brick-effect scenic treatment established a warmer domestic setting distinct from the workshop-style surfaces elsewhere in the house.

The fireplace surround provided the main fabricated focal point. Hanging stockings, framed details, wrapped presents and a decorated Christmas tree completed the setting. The surrounding window, curtain treatments, furniture and prop placement created multiple layers within the room. This ensured the area remained visually complete when viewed from different directions rather than functioning only as a front-facing photographic backdrop.

The use of scenic construction, furniture and props as one coordinated system was essential to the finished result. The fireplace wall provided the architectural context. The custom and supplied furniture established the usable room arrangement. The trees, stockings, presents and detailed props then developed the festive narrative within that structure.

Integrating Lighting and Electrical Systems

Evolution Technical supported the lighting and electrical components of the house. Energy-efficient LED lighting was used as part of the sustainability approach. The fixtures helped establish the warmth of the interior spaces and supported the visibility of the exterior sign, façade details and decorative features.

The lighting needed to work with the selected scenic finishes. Warm internal illumination enhanced the timber and OSB-style surfaces, while the Christmas trees, fireplace environment and decorated shelving required more focused lighting to retain their detail.

Because the house was assembled from modular wall and ceiling sections, electrical routes had to remain compatible with the temporary construction. Services needed to pass through or alongside the fabricated architecture without interrupting visible surfaces.

The exact lighting fixture schedule and electrical control arrangement have not been provided. The confirmed scope is limited to Evolution Scenic’s supply of the lighting and electrical systems with support from Evolution Technical.

Engineering for Temporary Public Use

Structural stability and fire-rated materials were confirmed technical requirements. The house needed to remain stable as a freestanding temporary structure throughout its operating period. The wall modules, roof sections, entrance features and internal construction therefore had to work as one connected scenic assembly.

The external ramps and fencing were also part of the installed environment. Their connections and positioning needed to be coordinated with the house footprint rather than treated as unrelated temporary accessories. Fire-rated materials formed part of the project requirements. The supplied information does not identify the individual material classifications or certification documents, and these have not been inferred.

Temporary environments intended for interactive use normally require careful control of structural connections, projecting details, decorative fixings, electrical components and access routes. These considerations reflect Evolution Scenic’s standard methodology. Only structural stability and the requirement for fire-rated materials are presented as confirmed project facts.

A Complete Sustainable Scenic Environment

Santa’s Sustainable House demonstrated how a temporary attraction could combine structural scenic construction with detailed interior production. The exterior established a complete festive building through its roof profiles, artificial snow, shaped gables, entrance sign, candy-cane columns, windows, doors, fencing and ramps.

The interior extended the environment through scenic walls, ceilings, exposed beams, custom joinery, a brick-effect fireplace setting, furniture, trees, presents and workshop props. Reused or recycled materials and energy-efficient LED lighting supported the sustainable brief. Modular workshop construction supported the one-week programme and the later dismantling of the temporary house.

The completed project depended on more than decorative finishing. It required the coordination of temporary architecture, structural stability, scenic fabrication, interior construction, technical systems, furniture and prop dressing. That integrated approach allowed Evolution Scenic to deliver Santa’s Sustainable House as a complete immersive environment at Expo City Dubai.

Building An Interactive Exhibition Environment For UNIDO In Abu Dhabi

The 18th session of the General Conference of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization took place at Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi from 3–7 November 2019. The conference focused on “Industry 2030 – Innovate. Connect. Transform our Future”, with the exhibition environment providing a physical setting for the different areas of the programme. 

Evolution Scenic was tasked with constructing the exhibition space within the Emirates Palace atrium. The scope extended across seven themed hubs covering Gender, Youth & Entrepreneurship, Circular Economy, Industry 4.0, Industrial Parks, Sustainable Energy and Partnerships.

The challenge was not simply to create visual backdrops. The scenic construction needed to accommodate interactive technology, display content and dedicated exhibition areas while remaining integrated with the existing architecture of the atrium.

Creating Seven Distinct Scenic Hubs

The exhibition was organised around seven subject areas, each requiring a clearly defined physical environment. Evolution Scenic constructed custom scenic panels and interactive stations for the individual hubs, creating a consistent architectural language across the exhibition while allowing each subject to retain its own identity.

The fabricated panels provided the physical framework for the information and interactive content presented throughout the space. This approach allowed the exhibition to function as a connected environment rather than a series of unrelated graphic displays.

Integrating Technology Into Scenic Construction

Interactive technology formed a significant part of the installation. Touchscreens, large displays, AI stations and personal iPads with headsets were incorporated into the scenic environment. The technology therefore became part of the physical construction rather than being positioned independently around the exhibition.

Custom mounting systems were required to hold the different interfaces within the scenic elements, allowing the displays to remain integrated with the individual themed areas.

From a scenic fabrication perspective, this creates a different set of requirements from a conventional decorative wall. The fabricated structure has to provide the necessary physical support while also accommodating the technology and maintaining the intended visual composition.

Fabricating The Photo Gallery

Alongside the seven themed hubs, Evolution Scenic fabricated a dedicated gallery space for Elisabetta Lattanzio Illy’s photographic exhibition. The gallery incorporated custom display structures to present the photographic work within the wider exhibition environment. 

This extended the fabrication scope into a different form of exhibition construction, where the scenic elements needed to provide an appropriate framework for the displayed works while maintaining continuity with the surrounding installation.

Working Within The Emirates Palace Atrium

The installation was constructed within the existing Emirates Palace atrium, meaning the scenic environment had to work with the architecture and circulation of the venue. The source specifically confirms that the scenic elements were designed and installed while maintaining guest flow and functionality. 

This is an important aspect of exhibition fabrication. Large scenic structures need to create visual definition without unnecessarily obstructing movement or compromising the operation of the surrounding venue.

The installation therefore combined physical separation, display infrastructure and interactive technology while retaining functional circulation through the space.

Delivering Against A Tight Production Timeline

Evolution Scenic delivered the project against a tight production timeline, requiring the scenic components to be fabricated and installed efficiently while maintaining structural integrity.  The combination of seven themed hubs, interactive technology, a dedicated photo gallery and wider atrium fit-out created multiple interfaces that needed to work together as one completed exhibition. The supplied project information does not provide the detailed fabrication schedule, installation duration or crew structure, so those elements are not assumed here.

A Fabricated Environment For Interactive Exhibition Content

The completed UNIDO exhibition transformed the Emirates Palace atrium into a purpose-built scenic environment. Seven themed hubs provided the principal structure, while interactive technology and custom display systems were incorporated into the fabrication. A dedicated photo-gallery fit-out added another layer of custom exhibition construction. 

The project demonstrates Evolution Scenic's ability to take an exhibition concept and translate it into a fabricated physical environment, combining scenic panels, display structures and technical interfaces within an existing venue.

DESIGNING THE ICE FUTURES SCENIC ENVIRONMENT AT ADGM

ICE Futures Abu Dhabi launched at ADGM on 29 March 2021.

Evolution Scenic developed the scenic design and delivered the complete scenic environment, taking responsibility for the physical integration of the stage architecture, scenic walls, screen surrounds, lecterns, branded structures and flooring. The completed scope included the main stage deck, curved steps, curved backdrop and screen surround, front branded fascia, lecterns, side scenic walls, additional branded scenic structures and flooring.

The environment was developed as a coordinated temporary architectural system rather than a series of independent event components. This required the stage geometry, scenic wall profiles, technical screen openings, branding positions, material transitions and floor finishes to operate as one continuous composition. The project programme was one month, covering the development and delivery of the scenic package at the ADGM venue in Abu Dhabi.

FABRICATING THE CURVED BACKDROP AND SCREEN SURROUNDS

Evolution Scenic fabricated the principal curved scenic backdrop and screen-surround structures using a combination of MDF, plywood, timber framing and metal framing. Timber framing provided the structural basis for much of the scenic construction, while MDF and plywood created the visible architectural surfaces required for paint, laminate and graphic finishes.

Metal framing was incorporated where additional rigidity or structural support was required within the scenic assembly. Producing the curved backdrop required the framing and surface layers to remain dimensionally coordinated. The supporting structure had to maintain the intended scenic profile while providing sufficiently stable surfaces for the final finish.

The large screen openings introduced additional interface requirements. Scenic edges around technical equipment must remain visually clean while allowing the technical systems to sit correctly within the surrounding architecture. The resulting construction combined conventional scenic carpentry with structural support, curved fabrication and accurate finishing around integrated audiovisual elements.

PU PAINT, GRAPHICS AND FINISHING

PU paint provided the principal high-quality scenic finish across the fabricated environment. Large scenic surfaces require careful substrate preparation before painting. Panel joints, fixing points, edge conditions and transitions between individual fabricated sections must be prepared so that they do not remain visible through the final coating. The quality of the painted finish therefore depends heavily on the accuracy of the underlying scenic carpentry.

Vinyl graphics and printed panels were applied to selected surfaces to introduce project identity and detailed branding. Laminate provided an alternative decorative surface where required, introducing additional material variation within the overall scenic package. Illuminated branding added a further layer of fabrication by incorporating light directly into selected branded elements.

These finishes were coordinated across the backdrop, stage fascia, lecterns, side walls and supporting scenic structures to maintain a consistent visual language. The finished result depended on control at every stage, from framing and sheeting through surface preparation, paint application, graphic positioning and final installation.

FABRICATING LECTERNS, SIDE WALLS AND BRANDED ELEMENTS

The main stage environment was supported by a wider package of custom scenic elements. Evolution Scenic fabricated lecterns that followed the same material and branding language as the principal stage. Because lecterns are positioned close to presenters and cameras, their visible faces, joints, graphic alignment and finished edges form an important part of the overall scenic quality.

Side scenic walls extended the architectural language beyond the central backdrop and helped define the boundaries of the presentation environment. Additional branded structures allowed project identity to be incorporated throughout the physical setting rather than being concentrated only around the central screens. Flooring completed the lower visual plane of the environment and helped connect the audience-facing floor treatment with the stage, steps and surrounding scenic structures.

Together, these elements created continuity across the full scenic package.

FABRICATING THE SUPPORTING SCENIC ELEMENTS

The main backdrop was supported by a broader group of fabricated elements. Custom lecterns provided dedicated presentation positions while retaining the same visual identity as the stage. Side scenic walls extended the architecture beyond the principal screen area and helped establish the boundaries of the environment.

Additional branded scenic structures provided further opportunities to integrate identity into the physical space. Flooring completed the composition at ground level, allowing the scenic environment to read continuously from the audience-facing floor through to the raised stage and backdrop.

The project used a broad scenic material palette.MDF and plywood formed the principal sheet materials, supported by timber and metal framing. Acrylic, fabric and laminate were incorporated within the wider scenic package. Selecting the appropriate material for each component allowed Evolution Scenic to combine large architectural surfaces with smaller fabricated details and branded elements. The finished environment therefore depended not on one construction method but on the controlled integration of several scenic disciplines.

INSTALLING THE ENVIRONMENT AT ADGM

The scenic package was installed at the ADGM venue in Abu Dhabi. The overall project programme was one month. During installation, protection was applied to the existing floors and walls to reduce the risk of damage while scenic sections, stage components and finished structures were moved through the venue and positioned. The stage deck, curved scenic elements, screen surrounds, steps, fascia, lecterns, walls and flooring were then brought together on site. Evolution Technical’s screen systems were coordinated with the scenic works during the installation process.

DELIVERING A COMPLETE TEMPORARY SCENIC SYSTEM

The completed ICE Futures environment demonstrates how conference scenery can be approached as temporary architecture rather than conventional event dressing. The stage deck, curved steps, screen surrounds, backdrop, front fascia, lecterns, side scenic walls, graphics, illuminated branding and flooring were developed as interconnected elements within one physical system.

The project combined scenic design development, timber fabrication, metal framing, curved scenic construction, substrate preparation, PU finishing, graphics, branded fabrication and audiovisual integration. Evolution Scenic delivered the scenic architecture, while Evolution Technical supplied the screens incorporated within the finished environment. The resulting installation depended on accurate coordination between structural framing, visible scenic surfaces, technical interfaces and final finishes.

For Evolution Scenic, ICE Futures Abu Dhabi demonstrates the technical value of controlling the complete scenic process from design development through workshop fabrication, finishing and installation within an existing venue.