In a unique and challenging project, a visionary client sought to create an extraordinary event venue on a lake. With steep property and limited options for construction, the goal was to build a floating structure that could support a large wedding tent while maintaining aesthetic appeal and ensuring functionality. The solution required innovative thinking, engineering expertise, and creative problem-solving to bring this dream to life, overcoming logistical, environmental, and design challenges to create a stunning floating venue that left a lasting impression.
Project Goals
The primary goal was to create a floating platform for a wedding tent on a steep property, overlooking a lake. The client, a visionary with a clear aesthetic in mind, wanted an elegant all-white setup, far from the typical barges or scaffolding. The tent's foundation needed to be sturdy, aesthetically pleasing, and able to support the weight of the event’s infrastructure, including lighting, décor, and flooring. Additional goals included:
- Building a secure floating structure that could support the wedding's logistics.
- Ensuring the structure met all environmental and regulatory requirements.
- Maintaining the aesthetic quality that matched the client's vision, including floating bathrooms.
Our Process
Initial Planning and Challenges
The project began with a bold idea—building a deck, or "tent floor," on top of scaffolding on the lake bottom. However, challenges arose when it became clear that the lakebed was not solid enough to support the structure. This led to discussions with engineers and exploration of alternative solutions.
Next, barges were considered, but logistical challenges arose, including the high demand for barges in the summer and their aesthetic unsuitability for the client’s vision. This prompted a shift to exploring floating dock manufacturers, eventually connecting with Dennis Large from Advanced Tent, who coordinated the project.
Collaboration and Engineering Solutions
With no previous examples of similar projects, the team relied heavily on consultations with experts and engineers. Measurements, calculations, and budget approvals followed. To ensure stability and durability, the floating structure was anchored with nine 2,000-pound weights and 75 pontoons. Additional materials used included 360 2x8x16 lumber, 900 bolts, and 160 sheets of plywood.
Construction
The first phase involved securing the pontoons, which arrived via barge. Over a month of detailed work, the pontoons were assembled, and the floating structure began to take shape. With the foundation in place, the next steps included installing flooring, rigging, draping, and setting up the tent. White carpet was laid, and decorative elements such as floating plexi shelves with candles were designed to match the client's all-white aesthetic.
The floating bathroom solution—another creative challenge—was implemented successfully, adding a level of innovation and convenience that aligned with the event’s grandeur.
Success Story
The wedding day arrived, and all elements came together seamlessly. The floating tent, measuring 50’ x 100’ and spanning 5,000 square feet, became the canvas for event designer Bill Fulghum’s magic, bringing the bride's vision to life. The bride, inspired by a previous all-white tented wedding, chose stunning floral arrangements with orchids and roses, symbolizing her Brazilian heritage.
The event was beautifully captured by internationally acclaimed photographer Jerry Ghionis, showcasing the elegance and uniqueness of the floating venue. As the night ended, fireworks illuminated the sky over the lake, with the tent serving as the perfect backdrop. The success of this project exemplifies how overcoming challenges and embracing creative solutions can lead to a truly unforgettable experience.
This project is a testament to our commitment to turning bold ideas into reality, no matter the complexity or scale. Challenges like this are what fuel our passion for creating extraordinary events.