Client: NASC (National Access & Scaffolding Confederation)
Partner: Layher UK
Location: Manchester Central
Date: September 2025
Overview
For ScaffEx25, the UK’s leading scaffolding and access exhibition, Event & Media Structures Ltd was appointed to design and deliver the Black Hat Lounge – a brand-new VIP hospitality space. Working in partnership with Layher UK, the project set out to showcase how scaffolding can be transformed into an exclusive, high-impact environment.
The Brief
ScaffEx25 wanted more than just an exhibition feature – they wanted a landmark space. The Black Hat Lounge needed to provide:
- A premium hospitality area for NASC members, VIPs, and invited guests.
- Flexible areas for networking, private meetings, and client hosting.
- Seamless branding and creative decoration.
- A bold demonstration of what scaffold systems can achieve beyond access.
Original renders
The Build
Over just two days on site, our team designed, managed, and built the entire VIP area, using Layher’s Allround and Event System as the foundation.
Key features included:
- Raised platforms & decking to create a distinct event space.
- Scaffold board bar dressed with greenery and lighting.
- Private booths and seating areas built from scaffold and timber, with turf-covered benches.
- Festoon lighting, screens, and bespoke signage, giving the lounge a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
- Themed decoration including vintage scaffold artwork, rope pulleys, chute installations, and floral displays.
The result was a hospitality hub that blurred the line between construction and creativity.
Industry Response
The Black Hat Lounge quickly became one of the standout features of ScaffEx25.
- Wayne Connolly, NASC President, praised the “stunning members area” and thanked the team for their effort.
- Mark Collinson, Head of Technical at NASC, described it as “so cool… the creativity, attention to detail and standard of finish blew me away. This was one scaffold I was truly gutted to see struck.”
The positive feedback from both visitors and the client made this project extra special – particularly as it was delivered for our own industry peers.
Collaboration in Action
This project highlighted the strength of collaboration. By combining EMS creativity and event expertise with Layher’s world-class systems, the Black Hat Lounge showcased the very best of the scaffolding sector: safe, versatile, and full of potential.
“Our team specialises in pushing the boundaries of what temporary structures can achieve. Creating a VIP space that raised the bar for our own industry was a proud moment.”
– Matt Bowler, Director of EMS
The Result
A bold, innovative feature that redefined what scaffolding can be – not just a tool for access, but a medium for design, hospitality, and brand storytelling.
The Black Hat Lounge was open throughout ScaffEx25, offering exclusivity, comfort, and inspiration to hundreds of industry leaders.
Let’s Build Something Different Together
Whether it’s a VIP hospitality suite, a branded showcase, or a bespoke modular structure, our team knows how to turn scaffold systems into unforgettable experiences.
Get in touch with Event & Media Structures today to discuss how we can bring your next project to life.
