Shell Scheme vs Space Only – what’s the difference, and which is right for you?
Making a splash at a large-scale exhibition starts with making an informed decision about your stand setup and what impact that has on your planning and your budget.
At Tecna, we work with businesses of all sizes to help them get more from their exhibition stand space. One of the first decisions you need to make once you have agreed that the expo is the right to attend, is choosing between shell scheme vs space only, and the pro’s & con’s of each to deliver a high-impact experience that stands out in a busy exhibition hall.
In this guide, we’ll unpack what these two options really mean in practice. Whether you’re exhibiting for the first time or managing a multi-show calendar, understanding the difference between a shell scheme exhibition stand and a space only exhibition will help you show up with confidence.
What is a shell scheme exhibition stand?
A shell scheme is a pre-existing structure supplied by most event organisers. It’s a package deal that includes:
• Wall panels defining your allocated floor space
• Basic carpet or floor covering
• Lighting and fascia nameboard
• Sometimes, power and standard exhibition stand setup elements
Want to scope this out further? Read our blog about What are shell scheme exhibition stands?
A sea of shell schemes
You’re essentially renting a ready-made frame—your own individual exhibition stand space within a row of others, all shaped the same.
Shell scheme stands are offered by most exhibition organisers and are commonly seen in designated spaces throughout most exhibition halls. They’re ideal for first-time exhibitors, smaller teams, businesses with tight event budgets or an existing trade show or pop-up stand smaller than their chosen floor space.
A note on shell scheme systems
The panels used in a shell scheme exhibition vary by provider – but you’ll always need to leave the space as you found it. You might be allowed to attach graphics directly, or you may need to use pop-up graphics or freestanding displays that don’t affect the structure.
Pros and cons of shell scheme stands
Pros
✔ A simple start for new exhibitors
With a shell stand, you arrive on-site and the structure is already in place. Great for self-build setups, or when your assets don’t fully match the exhibition space.
✔ Included services
Lighting, flooring, fascia board—your shell scheme is a package deal including just enough to let you focus on messaging and setup.
✔ Lower risk and easier planning
This is a great option for brands testing the waters, especially those attending a large-scale exhibition for the first time.
Cons
✘ Limited customisation
You’re working within fixed walls, height limits, and layout restrictions. You can add branding through shell scheme graphics, but you can’t change the shape or structure.
✘ Uniformity across stands
Shell schemes all follow the same shape—which can lead to a “cookie cutter” effect unless your stand design is truly eye-catching.
✘ Higher costs than you’d expect
You’re paying for convenience, and for some shows, a shell scheme space can actually be more expensive than space only per square metre.
✘ Location limitations
Some prime locations only offer space only exhibition stand space, so shell scheme availability can limit your position.
How Tecna elevates shell scheme exhibition stands?
At Tecna, we believe shell scheme systems shouldn’t hold you back.
We help you get the most from your shell scheme stand either through clever stand design, shell scheme graphics, gamification, or impactful activations that pull people in.
We also offer tailored advice on how to train your team, optimise your layout, and make your stand work harder. With the right support, even a standard shell scheme stand can become an eye-catching display.
What is a ‘Space Only’ exhibition stand?
A space only exhibition stand gives you just one thing: exhibition space. No walls, no structure, no lighting—just a blank canvas ready for you to build on.
This option is for businesses that want complete control. You bring everything—structure, power, flooring, graphics, and services. It’s perfect for brands looking to create an immersive, custom exhibition stand, from scratch.
With space only, you can build something bold, modular and reusable—especially powerful for brands exhibiting across multiple events with different stand spaces.
Pros and cons of space only exhibition stands
Pros
✔ Full creative control
You’re not restricted by a pre-existing structure. You can build height, depth, and completely personalise your stand experience.
✔ Bold brand impact
A strong space only exhibition design breaks the shell scheme pattern. It helps you get noticed in a busy exhibition hall.
✔ Greater flexibility and reusability
Design it once, use it across multiple events and formats. Whether you have a corner plot in Paris or a row-end in London, the right stand can adapt for whatever event you have next.
✔ Ideal for larger builds
If you need to showcase large equipment, product demos, or immersive storytelling, space only stands give you more space to do it right.
Cons
✘ More planning and budget responsibility
With space only, it’s all on you. You (or your exhibition stand contractor) must manage design, H&S, installation and logistics.
✘ Higher initial investment
This isn’t a cheap option, but with a modular system, it’s often more cost effective long term.
✘ Time and resource heavy
Building from scratch takes time, so you’ll need to start early and work with the right partners to stay on track.
How Tecna makes space only simpler?
We specialise in space only stand needs—from scale-ups to global brands.
Our team handles everything: layout planning, modular design, build, event organiser submissions, logistics and install. We help you make smart choices that match your event budget and strategy.
Want to build once and reuse across 10 events? We’ll help you create a modular, scalable structure that flexes to each exhibition stand space and venue footprint.
Shell scheme vs space only: what’s best for you?
Shell scheme is ideal for:
• First-time exhibitors or small teams
• Simpler messaging or low-hassle setups
• Brands that want a defined shell scheme space and easy logistics
Space only is ideal for:
• Large businesses/brands with bold ideas
• Custom, experiential, or product-led displays
• Companies building modular stands for multiple events
• Anyone wanting full control over stand design and exhibition space
At Tecna, we’ll help you make the right call—then make it count.
Let Tecna help push the possible
No matter which format you choose – shell scheme or space only = we make sure your investment works harder.
Our consultative approach means we’ll:
• Help you make an informed decision
• Maximise every inch of your build stand space
• Deliver standout results across trade shows and venues
• Provide turnkey support from design to installation
• Help you reuse your stand across multiple events
Frequently asked questions
Shell scheme vs space only – what else should I know?
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What does ‘space only’ really mean at an exhibition?
‘Space only’ means you’re renting just the allocated space on the show floor—nothing else is included. No walls, no flooring, no power. Just a blank canvas to build your own custom solution. It gives you complete freedom, but also more responsibility. That’s why most brands work with an experienced exhibition stand contractor to bring their vision to life.
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Is a shell scheme stand always cheaper than space only?
Not always. While event organisers include structural elements in the shell scheme package, you still pay a premium for that convenience. A smart modular space only exhibition stand—especially one used across multiple events can often be the more cost effective solution in the long run.
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Can I add a freestanding display to my shell scheme?
Yes. If the organiser restricts attaching items to the shell walls, you can still use freestanding displays, pop up graphics, or lightweight structures that sit within the shell scheme space without impacting the framework. We help clients maximise visual presence even when options are limited.
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Why do some organisers only sell space only stands in key areas?
Exhibition organisers often sell space in premium areas (like corners or entrances) as space only to give exhibitors maximum flexibility—and command a higher price. If your stand must be in a prime location, you’ll likely need to choose space only and build it out yourself.<!– wp:heading –>
<h2 class=”wp-block-heading” id=”h-let-tecna-help-push-the-possible”>Let Tecna help push the possible</h2>
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Can Tecna help with shell scheme and space only stands?
Absolutely. Whether you’re working within the limits of a shell scheme exhibition stand or building from the ground up with space only, Tecna’s consultative approach means we’ll maximise your impact. From design, logistics and layout to interactive features and staffing—we make your stand work harder.
