Why equip your venue with an event structure?

Demand for outdoor receptions is growing: tent weddings are on the rise, whereas indoor spaces have limited capacity.

To add extra space to a reception venue, owners have three options: one-off rental (event by event), long-term rental (rental for the whole season) and purchase.

An event structure thus opens up a new revenue stream without building work or altering the property, while enhancing the venue's heritage and commercial offering.

Renting event structures: flexibility and cost control

Renting event structures meets many needs: it gives access to an installation suited to the venue, without tying up capital, and the rental company takes care of storage, assembly, maintenance and certification. It comes in two formats, depending on how often you hold events.

One-off rental: one event at a time

The structure is installed for a specific event, then dismantled once the reception is over. This format suits venues holding a few receptions spread across the year. This type of rental is ideal for testing a new event format, with a structure whose configuration adapts to each occasion. Costs stay under control because you only pay at the time of the event.

Long-term rental: one structure for the whole season

The structure is installed for several months, for the length of a season. For venues that concentrate their events over a given period, a long-term space extension becomes noticeably more cost-effective than repeated one-off rentals. It also limits the logistics costs of repeated one-off installations: rather than assembling and dismantling a structure every weekend, it is erected at the start of the season and only dismantled a few months later.

For tent rental, there are two possible approaches:

• You offer your end clients the option of renting the tent directly from Atawa. You simply recommend Atawa, and we take care of the rest directly with the client, from choosing the tent to installation on the day.
• You rent the tent yourself and offer your clients an all-inclusive service. You keep direct contact with your clients, and Atawa handles setting up the tent alongside you.

Buying your event structure: when does it make sense?

Buying your event structure can make sense depending on your venue's profile. Purchasing adds undeniable value to the venue: the structure, which can be customised in the estate's colours, can host the public at any time. It is an investment, ideal for high-activity venues looking to pay it off over several seasons.

That said, the initial investment is high (from €30,000 to €300,000 or more), significant storage space is needed, and both maintenance and certification remain entirely the owner's responsibility. 

Buying or renting an event structure: the comparison to help you decide

To decide between renting event structures and buying, here are the 6 key criteria that make the difference.

Event frequency determines the most suitable solution: 

• under 10 events, one-off rental is enough;
• 10 to 25 events, long-term rental becomes the most cost-effective;
• beyond 25 events, buying can become the most advantageous option.

Which structure suits your venue's profile?

The choice of structure depends as much on the venue's aesthetic as on the desired frequency of use. Here's an overview of the main formats and the profiles they suit.

Reception tents: the versatile choice

Modular and available in many styles, reception tents adapt to any terrain and any atmosphere. From the classic white-canvas tent to the Clear Roof Marquee, they offer the best balance of flexibility and elegance for most events.

Nomadic tents: the bohemian-chic ideal

Sailcloth Tent, Bamboo Marquee, Stretch Tent… many models offer a nomadic aesthetic. These tents reinvent themselves with every event, blending harmoniously into the venue.

The Glass Wall Tent and the orangery: the premium options

With their fully glazed façades and walls, the Glass Wall Tent and the orangery offer a sumptuous, light-filled interior. The structure's black finishes bring a high-end signature look. They are very popular with venues wanting to offer their clients a luxurious atmosphere.

Atawa, a turnkey solution for your venue

As a specialist in renting event structures, Atawa helps venue owners bring their projects to life, whether it's one-off rental, long-term rental or purchase.

Atawa brings together 9 areas of expertise: structure, furniture, flooring, tableware, decor, sanitation, lighting, sound and video, and power. A dedicated advisor supports you, from the initial assessment of your venue through to a coordinator on site on the day, anywhere in France. 

FAQ: Questions about buying and renting event structures

Is it better to buy or rent an event structure for an estate?

For the vast majority of estates, renting remains the most sensible choice: flexibility, controlled budget and no logistical burden. Buying becomes worthwhile once activity is very regular (around 25 events). If you're unsure, starting with rental remains the most prudent decision.

Does Atawa only sell demountable structures?

Yes. Atawa only sells demountable structures: reception tents, marquees and temporary structures, which you can assemble and dismantle yourself, or which our teams can come and assemble and dismantle for you. Permanent constructions, such as a building extension or a veranda, are not part of our offer.

How much does renting an event structure cost?

The cost of renting event structures varies according to size (from 50 to 500 m²), the type of structure and the duration. Expect prices to start at €3,000 for a standard 100 m² tent. For more detail on pricing, see the guide: Tents, understanding the prices.

Do you need authorisation to install a structure open to the public at your venue?

As soon as a structure hosts 50 people or more, CTS regulations apply, whether the event is public or private. Depending on the size of the structure and how long it will be installed, a declaration at the local town hall may also be required. Atawa advises you on these procedures and provides the required technical documents (plans, safety certificates).

Can you rent and then buy an event structure?

Absolutely, and it's even recommended. One-off rental lets you test a format, a layout and a volume of activity full-scale before considering a purchase. It's a chance to validate profitability before investing.

From how many events does a structure become worth buying?

Generally, beyond 25 events: from the 26th event, the structure pays for itself. Below that, renting remains more advantageous.