5 Ways to Style a Historic Venue for Modern Corporate Events
5 Ways to Style a Historic Venue for Modern Corporate Events
Transforming a historic venue into a modern corporate event space is all about blending the old with the new. Here’s how you can achieve this balance:
Smart Lighting: Use LED lighting to highlight architectural features and incorporate brand colors
Modern Furniture: Pair sleek furniture with vintage accents to complement the venue's charm.
Integrated Technology: Add AV systems, digital displays, and Wi-Fi without disrupting the historic feel
Balanced Table Settings: Mix vintage tableware with contemporary designs for a cohesive look
Outdoor Areas: Use the outdoor space for networking or presentations with weather-ready setups.
Quick Tip: Venues like Fire House KC, a restored 1930s fire station, offer a perfect mix of history and functionality. It's a great choice for corporate events with built-in AV equipment, seating for 150 guests, and weekday rates of $250/hour.\
Keep reading for detailed tips on how to style your next corporate event in a historic venue.
1. Smart Lighting for Historic Features
Smart lighting can turn historic venues into modern spaces for corporate events. Fire House KC's 1930s architecture pairs beautifully with creative LED lighting solutions.
LED Lights to Highlight Building Details
Use LED uplighting to emphasize features like brick walls and chandeliers. This approach enhances the venue's charm while avoiding harsh shadows.
Incorporating Brand Colors with Lighting
Modern LED systems let you incorporate corporate branding seamlessly. Wireless, battery-powered fixtures can highlight architectural elements while preserving the venue's historic appeal. This flexibility allows for customized lighting setups tailored to different event types.
Lighting Adjustments for Event Types
Corporate events often require specific lighting to set the right tone. Here's how to match lighting setups to various event purposes:
Moving head lights are great for transitioning between event segments, such as switching from a presentation to a networking session. LED string lights can provide soft ambient lighting that combines the venue's historical charm with corporate branding.
2. Modern Furniture and Simple Decor
Blend modern furniture with the venue's historic architecture to highlight its charm while keeping the overall look balanced.
Mix New Seating with Old Architecture
Pair modern seating with classic elements like exposed brick walls or crystal chandeliers. Opt for furniture with sleek, simple designs that complement the venue's historic details. For formal events, pick seating that enhances the vintage feel. For breakout sessions, go with versatile layouts. In VIP areas, include stylish accent chairs to add a touch of modern elegance.
Clean Lines and Metal Accents
Fire House KC’s industrial past makes it an ideal setting for modern metal accents. Think brushed steel tabletops that complement traditional chandeliers, geometric dividers that create defined spaces without closing them off, or brass details that reflect the building’s original hardware.
"Industrial elegance meets historic charm." - Fire House KC
Balance Old and New Pieces
Combine old and new design elements seamlessly to create a cohesive look. Use modern seating to frame historic features, add high tables with vintage touches in networking spaces, and place contemporary dining tables against classic architectural details.
The 1930s fire station design provides a timeless backdrop. Modern decor can elevate the space while ensuring the venue’s original character remains the centerpiece for any corporate event.
3. Integrated Technology
Using Fire House KC's AV Equipment
Fire House KC's audiovisual system provides high-quality sound without being intrusive. You can create separate audio zones with directed sound technology—perfect for breakout sessions or simultaneous presentations. Wireless controls allow adjustments without disrupting the venue's historic look.
Digital Displays and Projections
Modern displays are thoughtfully placed to enhance the venue's architecture. High-resolution LED screens provide clear visuals without overpowering the space, and adjustable brightness ensures great visibility in any lighting condition.
Wi-Fi and Power Station Setup
Discrete charging stations are designed to blend seamlessly with the venue's historic style. Fire House KC offers high-speed Wi-Fi capable of supporting multiple devices and strategically placed power outlets that maintain functionality without disrupting the aesthetic. Custom power stations, crafted with brass and steel finishes, reflect the building's original design while providing modern convenience.
4. Table Settings That Mix Old and New
Create table settings that honor Fire House KC's 1930s roots while embracing a modern corporate vibe.
Combine Vintage and Contemporary Tableware
Blend timeless pieces with sleek, modern items to create a polished and visually engaging setup. Metallic touches, like brass accents, can tie the building's historic charm to contemporary designs.
Include Local History in the Decor
Highlight Fire House KC's heritage by using centerpieces inspired by its 1930s design. Geometric arrangements with fresh flowers can nod to its industrial past while adding a modern twist. Position these pieces to enhance features like crystal chandeliers and exposed brick walls, creating a seamless blend of old and new.
Choose Harmonizing Colors
Pick color schemes that connect the venue's classic features with the event's modern requirements. A well-thought-out palette ensures a cohesive look.
Incorporate company colors as accents to tie in branding while complementing the venue's historic and modern elements. These table settings set the stage for seamlessly integrating indoor elegance with outdoor event designs.
5. Outdoor Space Setup
Take the event's atmosphere outside once you've nailed the indoor vibe. Fire House KC's historic courtyard offers a stunning backdrop for modern corporate events, blending charm with functionality.
Create Outdoor Meeting Areas
Design outdoor zones that match the professionalism of indoor spaces. Add high-top tables near the bar for networking and group seating for breakout sessions. Use café lighting to keep the area usable and inviting after sunset.
Be Prepared for the Weather
Ensure the outdoor setup is ready for any weather without losing its polished look. Use elements that maintain the venue's historic charm while keeping guests comfortable.
Key weather solutions include:
Tents designed to complement the building's style
Strategically placed portable climate control units
of pathways connecting indoor and outdoor spaces
Indoor backup areas ready for quick use if needed
Align Indoor and Outdoor Designs
Make sure the outdoor decor complements the indoor setup. Recreate the venue's signature look outside - think pendant lighting inspired by indoor crystal chandeliers and industrial-elegant furniture that ties the spaces together.
The courtyard's flexibility makes it perfect for various event formats. Start the day with morning presentations, then transition to an evening reception with adjusted seating and lighting. The space comfortably accommodates up to 150 guests while maintaining the sophisticated feel needed for corporate events.
Blending History with Modern Corporate Events
Transforming a historic venue into a functional corporate event space takes careful consideration to balance its rich past with today’s business needs. Fire House KC, a beautifully restored 1930s fire station, provides an ideal setting that merges vintage charm with modern conveniences.
Highlight the venue’s character by incorporating thoughtful touches like strategic lighting, sleek furnishings, and integrated tech. Priced at $250 per hour on weekdays, the space includes essentials like tables, chairs, and linens, making planning easier. With room for up to 150 guests, Fire House KC features built-in AV equipment, a projector screen, and a microphone system while retaining its historic charm.
Make your next corporate event unforgettable by hosting it at Fire House KC, where history and modern style come together. To schedule a tour or share your event details, contact the team at info@firehousekc.com. With weekday availability from Monday to Thursday, the venue offers the flexibility to suit your plans.