Custom Experiential
Installation for PANDORA
Full-Scale Scenic Tree Built for Fast Assembly
with High-Impact Visual Finish
Project Summary
A large-scale decorative tree installation designed for a branded event environment, combining lightweight structural engineering with detailed, high-end finishes to achieve strong visual impact with efficient production and installation.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Event Production Facility (US) |
| Industry | Experiential / Event Production |
| Client Type | Brand Activation / Event Agency |
| Product | Custom Scenic Tree Installation |
| Materials | EPS Foam + Polyurea Coating + Scenic Finishes |
| Timeline | ~2-3 weeks |
| Budget Range | $$ |
Project Overview
This project involved the fabrication of a large-scale custom scenic tree designed for an immersive brand activation environment.
The installation needed to serve as both a visual centerpiece and an interactive element, incorporating a swing while maintaining structural integrity, lightweight construction, and efficient transportability.
The final structure delivered a highly detailed organic appearance while remaining optimized for production timelines and event logistics.
The Challenge
Context
- Large-format experiential installation for branded environment
- Required both visual impact and functional interaction (swing element)
Constraints
- Tight production timeline typical for event builds
- Need for lightweight structure to simplify transport and install
- Requirement for detailed organic texture (tree bark, branches, canopy)
Risks
- Structural instability due to interactive load (swing usage)
- Excessive weight if built using traditional materials
- Complex geometry increasing fabrication time
- On-site installation limitations
The Solution (Engineering Approach)
Material System
- EPS foam core (lightweight structural mass)
- Polyurea hard coating for durability and impact resistance
- Hand-finished scenic coating for realistic bark texture
- Applied paint system for natural wood replication
Structural System
- Internal reinforcement to support suspended swing load
- Integrated anchoring within base platform
- Load-distribution design through trunk core
- Stable footprint to eliminate need for heavy external supports
Fabrication
- CNC-assisted foam shaping for base geometry
- Hand sculpting for organic detailing
- Section-based fabrication for transport efficiency
- Pre-finishing in controlled environment
Customization
- Fully custom tree geometry and proportions
- Integrated swing system
- Scenic detailing (bark, canopy, ground base)
- Decorative blossom application for final visual layer
System Architecture
Layer Structure:
- EPS structural core (primary volume, lightweight)
- Reinforcement system (internal support for load-bearing elements)
- Polyurea coating (impact + structural surface strength)
- Scenic detailing layer (texture, carving, finishing)
- Final paint and decorative elements (visual realism)
Result: High visual fidelity with structurally stable, lightweight construction suitable fo interactive use.
Before / After (Adapted)
Pre-installation
- Raw foam structure under fabrication
- Structural shaping and detailing in progress
Final Result
- Fully finished scenic tree with realistic bark texture
- Integrated swing functioning as interactive feature
- Decorative blossom canopy creating high visual impact
Implementation Process
Step 1 – Design (2-3 days)
- Concept development
- Proportion and structure planning
- Integration of interactive elements
Step 2 – Engineering (2 days)
- Load considerations for swing
- Internal reinforcement design
- Stability and base planning
Step 3 – Fabrication (5-7 days)
- Foam shaping (CNC + manual)
- Assembly and detailing
- Coating and finishing
Step 4 – Delivery (1 day)
- Lightweight transport without heavy equipment
Step 5 – Installation (1-2 days)
- Fast on-site setup
- Minimal crew required
- No complex rigging needed
Results (Key Metrics)
| Metric | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Weight reduction | Up to 80-90% lighter than comparable solid material structures |
| Installation speed | Completed 2-3x faster than traditional scenic builds |
| Heavy equipment | Crane-free setup |
| Logistics | Reduced overall logistics complexity |
| Surface durability | Durable coated surface suitable for repeated event use |
| Visual outcome | High-end visual finish comparable to carved wood structures |
Value Analysis (TCO)
| Parameter | Traditional Build | Foam-Based System |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Heavy | Lightweight |
| Installation | Complex | Fast |
| Transport | Costly | Efficient |
| Fabrication Speed | Slower | Faster |
| Flexibility | Limited | High |
| Maintenance | Moderate | Low |
Compliance & Engineering
- Designed for structural stability in temporary installations
- Load-conscious design for interactive components
- Durable coating system resistant to wear and handling
- Lightweight structure reducing installation risk
Client Feedback
“The installation came together faster than expected, and the level of detail exceeded what we typically see with lightweight builds. It integrated seamlessly into the overall setup and performed reliably on site.”
– Event Production Team
FAQ
Is the structure strong enough for interaction (e.g., swing use)?
Yes – internal reinforcement systems are designed to support controlled interactive loads.
How durable is the surface?
Polyurea coating provides high resistance to impact and wear during event use.Polyurea coating provides high resistance to impact and wear during event use.
Can this be reused for multiple events?
Yes – the structure is designed for transport and reuse when required.
How long does production typically take?
Similar projects are usually completed within 2-3 weeks depending on complexity.
Can the design be customized?
Fully customizable in scale, shape, texture, and finish.
