Creating the perfect event sometimes involves working with a less-than-perfect venue. Whether it’s an outdated wall, a peeling ceiling, or an awkward architectural quirk, every planner has encountered unattractive areas that don’t quite fit the vision of the day.
These unappealing aspects of a venue can detract from the experience, but with the right tools and a creative approach, you can successfully transform a venue into a stunning space your clients will love.
Hiding unattractive areas isn’t just about covering flaws; it’s about enhancing the overall environment so every corner of the venue supports the event’s theme and atmosphere. Smart, stylish solutions can turn even the most unpromising spots into seamless contributors to a beautiful event.
Don’t miss this comprehensive guide, which is full of easy, stunning ways to hide unattractive areas of any venue.
1. Illuminate the Best Parts of Your Venue
Lighting does far more than set the mood; it can act as a powerful tool for directing attention and masking imperfections. By strategically using uplighting, string lights, or spotlights, you can shift focus from problematic areas to the venue’s more attractive features.
For instance, unattractive walls can be concealed with clever combinations of shadows and highlights, which can add depth and texture to the room while subtly masking imperfections.
Colored lighting is another excellent way to enhance ambience and draw eyes away from problem areas. Soft blues or warm amber tones create an inviting glow that diminishes the prominence of imperfections.
Similarly, light patterns projected onto walls or ceilings can create a beautiful visual distraction. Consider using moving gobos or patterned projections to add an artistic flair that makes unattractive spaces disappear into the background of your overall design.
2. Cover Blemishes With Decorative Draping
One of the most versatile tricks in an event planner’s toolkit is fabric draping. The eye-catching arrangement of backdrop panels includes faux burlap, poly satin, sheer voile, and many more, each bringing a unique texture the event space.
Luxurious and elegant, draping works wonders to hide unattractive walls, odd-shaped ceilings, or industrial beams. Simply covering these elements with soft fabric can instantly transform a venue into a cohesive, polished area.
For example, high ceilings with exposed wiring can be softened with flowing fabric to bring a sense of intimacy and warmth. Dark or dingy walls can be concealed using vibrant, themed drapes that tie seamlessly into the event’s color palette. Even large structural flaws, such as cracked plaster or uneven panels, instantly disappear behind the simple elegance of well-placed fabric.
The type of fabric you choose makes a huge difference. Sheer materials are perfect for daytime events where natural light enhances their delicate quality, while richer fabrics, such as velour, are well-suited for evening receptions that exude a sense of opulence. Either way, draping creates an impressive visual effect while effortlessly hiding problem areas.
3. Draw Attention With Stunning Greenery
Nature has an innate ability to improve any setting, so floral arrangements or lush greenery are especially helpful for concealing unattractive areas. Strategically position tall plants, flower walls, or cascading foliage to divert attention from low-quality aspects and create a fresh, inviting vibe.
For instance, a section of chipped wall can be easily hidden with an elegant vertical garden or trellis adorned with climbing vines and blooms that align with the event’s theme. Large flower arrangements placed in front of unappealing corners hide flaws and create stunning, eye-catching focal points.
For outdoor events, oversized potted plants can camouflage unsightly fences or utility equipment, blending these spaces effortlessly into the natural setting. The diverse options available make greenery and florals adaptable for any event’s tone, ranging from romantic weddings to vibrant corporate gatherings.
4. Arrange Furniture for Unsightly Areas
Furniture arrangement is a practical yet impactful way to hide unattractive areas in a venue. Carefully planning furniture placement will help you guide guests’ attention while creating functional and stylish spaces.
One approach is to use large furniture pieces like screens, bookshelves, or custom buffet tables to physically block unsightly views. For instance, a large shelving unit set against a cracked wall, adorned with elegant decor or themed event props, is both a visual barrier and a functional feature.
Another strategy is creatively positioning lounge seating to draw focus away from imperfections. Plush chairs and sofas create inviting clusters that keep guests engaged and less aware of the venue’s problem spots. Similarly, high-top tables with attractive centerpieces can occupy an awkward corner while contributing to the overall decor.
5. Bring Creativity and Cohesion to Chaotic Spaces
A strong, consistent theme can work wonders in minimizing the visibility of unattractive corners. When every decorative element ties cohesively into a purposeful design, it automatically creates a more polished atmosphere, allowing imperfections to fade into the background.
For example, an industrial venue with exposed pipes and brickwork can be easily turned into a trendy urban hotspot with modern, minimalistic decor. String lights, geometric centerpieces, and sleek furniture add charm while blending flaws seamlessly into the industrial aesthetic.
For garden or botanical themes, earthy details like faux ivy, lanterns, and rustic wooden signage transform an imperfect backdrop into a complementary part of the experience. Thematic decor has the power to obscure flaws by incorporating them into the event’s visual narrative.
6. Don’t Be Afraid To Lean on Temporary Structures
Sometimes, entire sections of a venue may need to be creatively hidden, and this is where temporary structures like screens, partitions, or backdrops shine. These elements are functional and attractive, offering an easy way to redefine or compartmentalize spaces.
For instance, freestanding dividers with custom panels can block off unsightly corners while providing space for branding, menus, or artistic designs. Custom-built walls or backdrops are especially popular for weddings and corporate events, as they make for gorgeous photo areas that cleverly mask inconvenient or unattractive features. Crafted to suit the theme, these temporary additions create a flawless impression while solving practical layout challenges.
Explore the beautiful range of pipe and drape kits and event draping as well as other essential supplies that will help you cover unsightly venue areas at Pipe & Drape Online.
Think Creatively, Plan Confidently
Transforming a space from flawed to fabulous is a challenge every event planner should be ready to tackle with confidence. By thinking outside the box and deploying smart strategies, such as lighting, draping, greenery, furniture placement, thematic decor, and temporary structures, you’ll turn even the most problematic venues into striking, cohesive environments.
Every space has potential; it just takes a little creativity to bring it to light. Whether you’re coordinating a dreamy wedding or an elegant corporate gala, don’t be afraid to experiment with these techniques to create unforgettable event experiences. Once event planners harness these methods, even the least attractive venues can become a canvas for memorable, beautiful occasions.