Choosing between a Shell Scheme or Space Only stand depends on your goals, budget, and creative vision. Shell schemes offer convenience and lower costs, while space-only stands deliver full design freedom and higher visual impact.
Every exhibitor faces the same decision before any major show: Shell Scheme or Space Only? It sounds simple enough: pick your space, add your brand, and show up. But the choice between structure and freedom can shape everything from cost to visibility to how visitors feel when they step onto your stand.
The truth is, neither option is universally “better.” The right one depends on your goals, budget, and brand personality.
SHELL SCHEME OR SPACE ONLY: WHAT’S THE REAL DIFFERENCE?
Shell schemes come pre-built with walls, carpet, and lighting, while space-only stands start as an empty floor you design entirely from scratch.
A shell scheme stand is the plug-and-play option of the exhibition world. The organiser provides the structure, walls, carpet, and lighting, so you only bring graphics and a few finishing touches.
A space only exhibition stand gives you the opposite: an empty floor and total creative control. It’s for brands ready to design every inch from the ground up, including custom exhibition stand design, lighting, furniture, flooring, and all.
In short, one is about simplicity; the other is about statement.
THE CASE FOR SHELL SCHEME
A shell scheme is best for smaller exhibitors or those short on time and budget. It’s quick to set up, cost-effective, and organiser-friendly.
For smaller companies, start-ups, or international exhibitors with tight schedules, a shell scheme is often a relief. It’s the ready-made stage that lets you focus on your pitch, not your panels.
Why exhibitors choose it:
- Cost-effective: It’s already built, which keeps hire and labour costs low.
- Quick setup: Arrive, unpack, and your booth is ready in hours, not days.
- Simpler logistics: Less to ship, fewer headaches, especially when exhibiting abroad.
But convenience has its ceiling.
Shell schemes limit how far your creativity can stretch. You’ll share similar-looking frames with neighbouring exhibitors, and even the best exhibition booth setup can blend into the background.
Still, with the right shell scheme upgrades, custom lighting, printed panels, or modular graphics, you can raise your presence without raising your budget.
THE POWER OF SPACE ONLY
Space-only stands suit established brands that want full creative freedom and maximum visual impact, but they require more planning and investment.
Choosing space only is like walking onto an empty stage before the curtain rises. You get to decide everything: the walls, height, flow, and feel.
Why brands love it:
- Total customization: You can build a fully bespoke stand design that mirrors your brand’s tone, product, and ambition.
- High visual impact: Space only stands can soar up to four metres, with hanging signs, rigging, and lighting design that stop people mid-stride.
- Strategic flexibility: Create zones for meetings, demos, or immersive tech, ideal for storytelling and engagement.
The flip side? More planning, more expense, and more responsibility. You’ll need a stand builder, contractors, and logistics support. That’s why EMS Events often steps in to manage everything, from event exhibition planning to installation and storage, so your team can focus on results, not regulations.
SHELL SCHEME OR SPACE ONLY: THE KEY DIFFERENCES
Shell schemes offer ease and affordability; space-only stands provide creative freedom and branding power, but come with higher costs and logistics.
| Feature | Shell Scheme | Space Only |
| Setup | Pre-built walls and lighting | Blank space for full design freedom |
| Cost | Lower, fixed price | Higher, based on design and build |
| Branding | Limited visual flexibility | Fully customised, branded experience |
| Build Time | Fast and simple | Requires planning and contractors |
| Ideal For | First-time or budget exhibitors | Established brands or product launches |
WHICH OPTION FITS YOUR BRAND GOALS?
Choose a shell scheme for simplicity and savings; go space only if you want maximum control, height, and creative storytelling.
If your aim is presence on a budget, go shell. If it’s impact and memorability, go space only. For smaller companies, a shell scheme provides structure without stress. For established brands, modular exhibition stands and custom exhibition stand design can make your booth the main attraction.
Either way, your decision should align with what you want attendees to remember, not just what you can afford today.
UPGRADING A SHELL SCHEME WITHOUT REBUILDING
You can enhance a shell scheme with custom lighting, branded panels, flooring, and modular add-ons, no rebuild required.
You don’t need to tear down to stand out. Many EMS Events clients transform their standard booths using:
- Custom lightboxes to brighten graphics
- Branded flooring to define space
- Raised counters or AV walls for product demos
These subtle tweaks turn practicality into polish, ideal for exhibition stand hire London clients who want impact without going full bespoke.
WHEN SPACE ONLY IS WORTH THE INVESTMENT
Space-only stands are worth it for large expos or product launches where creative freedom and visual presence justify the higher cost.
Choose space only when your brand story deserves more room to breathe.
Space only exhibition stands shine at large expos, product launches, or international showcases where every square meter is a stage. The design freedom supports immersive experiences, interactive screens, lounge areas, and even elevated decks.
Yes, the logistics are heavier, but the return is often bigger: stronger recall, deeper engagement, and a stand that truly feels like yours.
HOW DO EMS EVENTS SUPPORT BOTH PATHS?
EMS Events designs, builds, and manages both shell and space-only stands, balancing creativity, budget, and logistics from start to end.
Whether you choose a shell scheme or space only, the planning shouldn’t fall entirely on your team. EMS Events handles everything from design and build to lighting, AV, and on-site support, balancing creative ambition with practical precision.
If you’re unsure which direction suits your next show, our London exhibition specialists can help you weigh the pros, cons, and costs before you book to hire.
Speak to our team about designing your next exhibition stand, whether it’s a smart shell scheme upgrade or a fully bespoke space-only build.
FAQs
What is the difference between a shell scheme and space only stand?
A shell scheme includes pre-built walls, lighting, and carpet, while a space only provides an empty plot for a custom stand.
Which option is more affordable?
Shell schemes are cheaper upfront, but can be enhanced for more visual appeal. Space-only stands cost more but deliver stronger branding.
Can a shell scheme be customised?
Yes. With printed panels, lighting, and flooring, you can transform it without breaking the organiser’s rules.
How far in advance should I plan a space-only build?
Ideally, 3–6 months before the event to allow for design approval, venue permissions, and logistics.
Does EMS Events handle both options?
Yes, EMS Events manages both shell and space-only stands across the UK, from creative design to on-site build and technical support.
