Luxury cultural events demand environments where art, architecture, furniture and technical integration operate as one carefully controlled experience. For the eighth edition of Prada Mode in Downtown Dubai, Evolution Scenic delivered bespoke scenic and artistic elements for the two-day programme at ICD Brookfield Place.

Centred around Damien Hirst’s Pharmacy concept, the event combined contemporary art, music, dining and conversation within a highly curated setting. Evolution Scenic’s scope included a suspended DNA molecule, a custom central bar, bespoke furniture, a life-sized medical display cabinet, column and window treatments, and collaborative rigging coordination with FARO Studio lighting designers and VCA Projects.

The Challenge

Prada Mode required a scenic environment that could support a highly distinctive artistic concept while maintaining the level of refinement expected from an international luxury fashion house.

The suspended DNA molecule needed to achieve significant visual impact while remaining lightweight enough for overhead installation. Its form, material choice and internal weight distribution therefore had to be considered carefully.

The existing venue architecture also needed to be transformed without losing its premium character. Eight-metre-high circular columns, windows, furniture and bar elements all had to contribute to the wider Pharmacy-inspired visual language.

The ceiling conditions added another layer of complexity, requiring accurate scanning and close collaboration with the wider design and rigging teams to position suspended scenic and lighting elements safely.

The Solution

Evolution Scenic fabricated a large-scale Styrofoam DNA molecule as one of the principal visual features of the event.

The structure was engineered specifically for suspension, with material strength and weight distribution considered throughout the fabrication process so that the sculptural form could be installed safely while maintaining its intended scale.

A custom central bar was designed and built as a major functional feature within the space, supported by bespoke comfort furniture tailored to the luxury hospitality environment.

A life-sized medical display cabinet was also fabricated in response to Damien Hirst’s Pharmacy concept, creating a more literal connection between the scenic environment and the artistic narrative.

Eight-metre-high circular columns were wrapped with custom wallpaper to transform the venue architecture, while transparent vinyl graphics were applied to the windows to extend the visual treatment across the wider interior.

Ceiling scans were carried out to support the rigging strategy, with Evolution Scenic collaborating with FARO Studio lighting designers and VCA Projects to coordinate the suspended scenic and lighting installations accurately and safely.

Delivery Highlights

• Scenic fabrication for the eighth edition of Prada Mode.
• Two-day event at ICD Brookfield Place, Downtown Dubai.
• Damien Hirst Pharmacy-inspired environment.
• Large-scale suspended DNA molecule.
• Styrofoam sculptural fabrication.
• Engineered weight distribution for suspension.
• Custom central bar.
• Bespoke comfort furniture.
• Life-sized medical display cabinet.
• Eight-metre-high column transformations.
• Custom wallpaper application.
• Transparent vinyl window graphics.
• Ceiling scanning.
• Collaborative rigging coordination.
• Coordination with FARO Studio lighting designers.
• Coordination with VCA Projects.
• Luxury scenic finishing and installation.

Outcome

The completed Prada Mode environment transformed ICD Brookfield Place into a highly controlled art and hospitality setting aligned with the event’s luxury and avant-garde character.

The suspended DNA molecule created a strong sculptural focal point, while the central bar, medical display cabinet, bespoke furniture and architectural treatments extended the Pharmacy-inspired concept throughout the space.

The project demonstrates Evolution Scenic’s ability to deliver art-led event environments where sculptural fabrication, premium finishing, venue transformation and rigging coordination all need to work together at a high level of precision.

Project Ecosystem

Evolution Scenic – Sculptural scenic fabrication, suspended DNA molecule, central bar, bespoke furniture, medical display cabinet, column treatments, window graphics, ceiling scanning, rigging coordination, delivery and installation.

FARO Studio – Lighting design collaboration.

VCA Projects – Rigging and installation coordination.

Executive events require environments that can support formal programmes, brand engagement and high-level networking while maintaining a consistent standard across every guest area. For HSBC’s Circle of Excellence 2023, Evolution Scenic delivered bespoke scenic elements, sponsor activations and premium hospitality spaces at Dubai’s Museum of the Future.

Working with MCM Creative Global, the team created an integrated environment comprising exhibition areas, sponsor stands, a conference space, a VIP lounge with a virtual-reality experience and an executive networking lounge.

Sustainability and brand alignment informed the scenic approach, with environmentally considered materials and elements incorporated while maintaining the refined aesthetic required for a high-profile HSBC event.

The Challenge

The event included several spaces with distinct operational purposes. Exhibition and sponsor areas needed to communicate brand messages effectively, the conference environment needed to support the formal programme, and the VIP and executive lounges required a more exclusive hospitality experience.

These environments had to feel connected while responding to HSBC’s visual identity and sustainability objectives. The scenic design therefore needed to balance brand consistency, premium finishing, visitor engagement and environmental considerations.

The Museum of the Future also provided a distinctive architectural setting. Each installation needed to complement the venue while creating a recognisable event identity within it.

Delivery Highlights

• Scenic production for HSBC Circle of Excellence 2023
• Installation at the Museum of the Future
• Immersive exhibition environment
• Custom sponsor stands
• Sponsor activation spaces
• Conference environment
• Premium VIP lounge
• Dedicated virtual-reality experience
• Executive networking lounge
• Brand-aligned scenic design
• Environmentally considered materials
• High-quality scenic fabrication
• Detailed production planning
• On-site installation and management
• Collaboration with MCM Creative Global

Outcome

The completed environment brought HSBC’s Circle of Excellence programme together across its exhibition, conference, activation and hospitality spaces.

Sponsor stands supported brand engagement, while the VIP and executive lounges provided distinctive settings for immersive experiences and professional networking. Consistent scenic detailing connected the different areas and maintained the premium character of the event.

By integrating sustainability considerations with brand-led scenic production, Evolution Scenic delivered a polished environment suited to HSBC’s requirements and the architectural setting of the Museum of the Future.

Project Ecosystem

Evolution Scenic – Scenic design, exhibition environments, sponsor stands, activation spaces, VIP and executive lounges, sustainable material integration, fabrication, production planning and on-site management.

Opening ceremonies require scenic elements that operate at architectural scale while responding precisely to choreography, lighting and live performance.

For the Expo 2020 Opening Ceremony on 1 October 2021, Evolution Scenic produced six large-scale kinetic flower sculptures and a collection of engineered scenic features for the performance beneath the Al Wasl Dome.

The package included moving flowers with illuminated details, interactive six-metre performance poles, manually operated flower props, a motorised stage-reveal mechanism and a 12-metre-diameter rehearsal stage. Each element combined specialist fabrication with mechanical movement, technical integration and detailed testing.

The Challenge

The scenic features needed to remain visually effective against the immense scale of the Al Wasl Dome while integrating closely with performers and the ceremony’s choreography.

The six kinetic flowers required dependable movement and illumination without restricting their scenic appearance. Hydraulic mechanisms, fibre optics, LEDs, batteries and wireless controls needed to be integrated within the fabricated forms.

The performance poles had to allow artists to move in different directions while suspended from their upper sections. This required careful attention to their bases, counterweights and structural behaviour.

A separate motorised quick-release system was also required for a precisely timed stage reveal. All elements needed to be delivered early enough for rehearsals and produced within the ceremony’s fixed timeframe.

Strict site-access and health requirements applied throughout delivery. Crew members were required to complete venue inductions and undergo regular COVID-19 testing.

The Solution

Evolution Scenic designed and fabricated six giant kinetic flower sculptures in different forms. Hydraulic systems were integrated with the petals to create controlled blooming movement, including twisting, spiralling and synchronised sequences.

Fairy lights, fibre optics and battery-powered LED systems were incorporated into the flowers to produce changing colours and illuminated effects. Wireless functionality allowed the movement and lighting to operate without visible connections interfering with the performance.

Additional flower props were fabricated with spring mechanisms, enabling dancers to open and close them manually during the ceremony.

Six-metre-high scenic poles were constructed with circular bases, integrated LED decoration and counterweights. These structures allowed performers positioned at the top to swing and travel in multiple directions as part of the choreography.

For the stage reveal, the team developed a motorised quick-release mechanism using a steel-wire system. Its operation was tested and refined to ensure the reveal could be synchronised with the live performance.

A 12-metre-diameter rehearsal stage was also constructed and delivered to the client’s designated location, providing a full-scale environment for daily performer rehearsals.

The scenic elements were produced using timber, metal and fabric, with repeated testing undertaken to verify movement, durability and safe operation before delivery to Expo.

Delivery Highlights

• Six large-scale kinetic flower sculptures
• Hydraulic petal movement
• Twisting and spiralling flower actions
• Synchronised blooming sequences
• Battery-powered scenic elements
• Integrated fibre optics
• Wireless LED illumination
• Fairy-light detailing
• Spring-operated dancer flower props
• Six-metre interactive performance poles
• Circular pole bases and counterweights
• Integrated LED pole decoration
• Motorised quick-release stage mechanism
• Steel-wire stage-reveal system
• 12-metre-diameter rehearsal stage
• Timber, metal and fabric construction
• Factory testing and technical refinement
• Transportation from the Evolution facility to Expo
• Venue induction and COVID-19 testing compliance

Outcome

The kinetic flowers and engineered scenic features became integral components of the Expo 2020 Opening Ceremony’s visual storytelling.

The flowers combined large-scale sculptural forms with controlled movement and illuminated effects, while the performance poles enabled dynamic interaction between the artists and scenery. The motorised quick-release system delivered the planned stage-reveal moment in coordination with the choreography.

The full-scale rehearsal stage allowed the performance team to practise with an environment suited to the production’s requirements before the live ceremony.

Through detailed fabrication, mechanical integration and extensive testing, Evolution Scenic delivered a complex scenic package for one of Dubai’s most significant global ceremonies.

Project Ecosystem

Evolution Scenic – Kinetic flower fabrication, hydraulic mechanisms, illuminated scenic integration, performer props, counterweighted poles, motorised stage-reveal engineering, rehearsal-stage construction, testing and delivery.

Seasonal destinations rely on scenic environments to create a strong sense of place while offering visitors memorable opportunities for interaction, photography and family activity.

For Christmas at Expo City Dubai in 2022, Evolution Scenic fabricated a wide-ranging collection of festive installations that transformed the venue into an immersive winter environment.

The project included large snow-covered décor islands, giant baubles, illuminated reindeer, stylised trees, Santa’s sleigh, oversized nutcrackers, Santa’s house, festive retail units and a Letters to Santa activation. Each feature combined specialist fabrication with detailed scenic finishing to create a cohesive seasonal experience.

The Challenge

The project involved numerous large-scale scenic elements, each with different structural, material and finishing requirements.

The freestanding décor islands were particularly difficult to handle. Their substantial size and lack of caster wheels made them challenging to move through confined workshop areas while snow-effect flocking was being applied in different locations.

Santa’s sleigh and reindeer also required careful fabrication. The sleigh needed to accommodate children safely for photography, while both elements required sufficient structural strength and detailed scenic finishes.

All installations needed to work together visually while supporting different functions, including photography, children’s activities, retail and general venue decoration.

The Solution

Evolution Scenic constructed the freestanding décor islands using expanded polystyrene foam and moisture-resistant medium-density fibreboard. Snow-textured finishes were applied to create the winter appearance required for the wider environment.

Stacks of oversized baubles were designed and fabricated as colourful focal points, while illuminated reindeer and stylised tree sculptures introduced light and visual depth throughout the venue.

Santa’s sleigh was built at a scale suitable for children to sit inside for photographs. The sleigh and accompanying reindeer were fabricated from a combination of polystyrene and timber, then completed with detailed scenic painting to create a more realistic appearance.

Oversized nutcracker sculptures provided additional festive landmarks and photography opportunities. A custom Santa’s house was fabricated as a central attraction, incorporating detailed architectural and decorative features.

Holiday-themed retail units were produced to support event activities and merchandise sales. Evolution Scenic also created a giant Letters to Santa mailbox with custom tables and seating, forming a dedicated writing activity for children.

Delivery Highlights

• Large freestanding festive décor islands
• Expanded polystyrene foam fabrication
• Moisture-resistant MDF construction
• Applied snow-texture finishes
• Stacked giant bauble installations
• Illuminated reindeer
• Stylised illuminated tree sculptures
• Santa’s sleigh for children’s photography
• Scenic reindeer fabricated from foam and timber
• Detailed scenic painting
• Oversized nutcracker sculptures
• Custom-built Santa’s house
• Holiday-themed retail units
• Giant Letters to Santa mailbox
• Custom children’s tables and seating
• Installation across Expo City Dubai

Outcome

The completed installations transformed Expo City into a varied festive environment offering visual landmarks, interactive activities and photography experiences for visitors of different ages.

Santa’s house, sleigh and oversized nutcrackers created recognisable seasonal attractions, while the illuminated reindeer, stylised trees and giant baubles extended the winter theme throughout the venue.

The Letters to Santa area provided a dedicated children’s activity, and the festive retail units supported the event’s commercial requirements.

By coordinating structural fabrication, sculptural production, scenic painting and snow-effect finishing, Evolution Scenic delivered a cohesive Christmas environment despite the handling and installation challenges created by the scale of the individual elements.

Project Ecosystem

Evolution Scenic – Scenic development, EPS-foam fabrication, moisture-resistant MDF construction, sculptural production, timber fabrication, scenic painting, snow-effect finishing, festive retail units, interactive installations and venue installation.

Donor events require environments that recognise individual contributions while communicating the wider purpose and achievements of an organisation.

On 6 March 2018, Sandooq Al Watan hosted its inaugural Al Awa’el Retreat at Manarat Al Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi. The event honoured donors and supporting partners and was attended by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Evolution Scenic delivered a refined event environment comprising a custom stage with an integrated screen, a commemorative photography platform, an interactive achievements gallery and a symbolic donor tree installation.

The Challenge

The inaugural retreat needed to recognise Sandooq Al Watan’s donors and partners while communicating the organisation’s role in supporting the UAE’s social and economic development.

The event required spaces for presentations, awards, donor recognition, commemorative photography and organisational storytelling. Each area needed to fulfil its specific function while maintaining a consistent and prestigious visual identity.

The scenic environment also needed to introduce meaningful symbolism without detracting from the formal character of the occasion.

The Solution

Evolution Scenic designed and fabricated a bespoke stage incorporating a built-in presentation screen. The integrated structure provided a clear focal point for speeches, presentations and awards.

A dedicated platform was constructed for donor recognition and commemorative group photography, giving official moments an appropriately designed setting.

The team also created an interactive gallery presenting Sandooq Al Watan’s principal achievements. Visual storytelling and scenic display techniques were combined to make the organisation’s work accessible and engaging for guests.

A bespoke donor tree formed a symbolic feature within the environment. Individual donor names were represented as leaves, expressing how separate contributions combined to support community growth and shared progress.

Premium scenic finishes were applied throughout the stage, gallery and recognition areas to maintain a cohesive standard appropriate to the event and venue.

Delivery Highlights

• Scenic production for the inaugural Al Awa’el Retreat
• Installation at Manarat Al Saadiyat
• Bespoke event stage
• Integrated presentation screen
• Setting for speeches and awards
• Dedicated donor-recognition platform
• Commemorative group-photography area
• Interactive achievements gallery
• Organisational storytelling displays
• Symbolic donor tree
• Donor names displayed as leaves
• Bespoke event branding
• Premium scenic finishes
• Coordinated spatial design
• Venue installation

Outcome

The completed environment gave Sandooq Al Watan a refined setting in which to recognise its donors, supporting partners and organisational achievements.

The integrated stage supported the formal programme, while the dedicated platform provided an appropriate location for donor recognition and commemorative photography. The interactive gallery communicated the organisation’s work, and the donor tree transformed individual names into a collective symbol of community and growth.

The inaugural retreat established a scenic and experiential foundation for Sandooq Al Watan’s future events while delivering an elegant experience aligned with the organisation’s mission.

Project Ecosystem

Evolution Scenic – Stage design and fabrication, integrated screen structure, donor-recognition platform, interactive gallery, symbolic donor tree, event branding, premium finishing and venue installation.

Temporary hospitality structures at sporting events must combine guest comfort and clear sightlines with the load capacity, access controls and structural support required for safe public use.

For Beats on 2 Decks 2023 at Rugby Sevens Stadium in Dubai, Evolution Scenic constructed a 54,000 × 29,000mm elevated platform beside the rugby pitch. Designed to accommodate 200 guests, the structure provided an integrated bar, restaurant and viewing environment.

The platform incorporated VIP pergolas, a larger bar and restaurant pergola, solid timber flooring, perimeter handrails, counters, lounge seating, barrel tables, bar chairs, lighting, sound and a large branded frontage.

The Challenge

The platform needed to accommodate a live capacity of 200 guests while supporting several hospitality functions within one elevated structure.

Its position beside the rugby pitch required the platform to provide a comfortable viewing environment without compromising stability or guest safety. Scaffolding braces, structural supports and perimeter protection were therefore central to the build.

The delivery programme created an additional constraint. The structure had to be completed ahead of the event so the client could install and prepare the restaurant and bar. It then needed to be dismantled immediately after the event.

Strict health and safety requirements applied throughout the construction, live-event and removal phases.

The Solution

Evolution Scenic constructed a heavy-duty temporary platform measuring 54,000 × 29,000mm. Scaffolding braces and supporting components were incorporated to provide the stability required for its intended capacity of 200 guests.

The platform was finished with solid timber flooring and a varnished surface, creating a durable and refined foundation for the hospitality environment. Heavy-duty handrails were installed around its perimeter to provide guest protection.

Pergolas created defined hospitality areas across the deck. Smaller structures provided lounge settings for VIP guests, while a larger pergola accommodated the principal bar and restaurant operation.

Bar counters, couches, barrel tables and bar chairs were positioned across the platform to support different styles of dining, socialising and match viewing.

Lighting and sound systems were incorporated to establish the event atmosphere. A printed vinyl banner measuring 54,000 × 4,000mm was installed across the front of the platform, giving the large structure a clear branded identity.

The platform was completed ahead of schedule, allowing time for the client’s hospitality setup. Following the event, the temporary structure was promptly dismantled and the area cleared.

Delivery Highlights

• 54,000 × 29,000mm temporary platform
• Capacity for 200 guests
• Elevated rugby-pitch viewing environment
• Heavy-duty scaffolding structure
• Structural braces and supports
• Solid timber flooring
• Varnished floor finish
• Heavy-duty perimeter handrails
• VIP guest pergolas
• Large bar and restaurant pergola
• Custom bar counters
• Couches and lounge seating
• Barrel tables and bar chairs
• Integrated lighting and sound
• 54,000 × 4,000mm printed vinyl banner
• Completion ahead of schedule
• Immediate post-event dismantling

Outcome

The completed platform provided an elevated hospitality and viewing environment for 200 guests beside the rugby pitch at Rugby Sevens Stadium.

Its combination of VIP pergolas, bar and restaurant facilities, varied seating and integrated event systems allowed the structure to support several guest experiences within one coordinated space.

Early completion gave the client sufficient time to prepare the hospitality operation before the event. Following its live use, the platform was dismantled promptly in accordance with the removal schedule.

The project demonstrated Evolution Scenic’s ability to deliver large temporary structures under strict safety, programme and operational requirements.

Project Ecosystem

Evolution Scenic – Temporary-platform construction, timber flooring, VIP and hospitality pergolas, perimeter handrails, bar counters, guest seating, branded frontage, installation and dismantling.