Challenge

The client had requested a full custom build with a 2,400 sq ft footprint, integrated AV, hospitality suites, and a branded environment – all with a 12-week lead time dictated by McCormick Place regulations.

Coordinating union labor, material deliveries, and electrical certifications across four states required pre-show logistics planning that left zero margin for error.

"The build window was non-negotiable. Every hour of delay risked the client's ability to host their VIP reception on opening night."

— Project Lead, AES

Approach

01

Site Survey & Planning

Conducted a detailed walk-through of the venue floor plan and mapped electrical, deployment cycles, union labor and load-in rigging.

02

Vendor Coordination

Assigned a dedicated lead to oversee 14 subcontracted vendors - eliminating cross-team conflicts.

03

Structural Build

Pre-fabricated 80% of the modular structure offsite to compress on-site assembly into a single 48-hour window.

04

Final QA & Handoff

Held two complete walkthroughs with the client to confirm every detail before show open.

Booth Highlights

Six standout moments from the build, captured during install and the show floor.

Custom Structure

Two-story aluminum frame with custom- tensioned printed graphic header walls.

Branded Graphics

Large-format SEG fabric graphics and backlit lightbox displays through the booth interior.

Lighting & AV

Programmable LED lighting and matched display walls calibrated for show-floor demo cycles.