How WH Silverbacks Built a One Night Alpine Resort Experience in the UK

Imagine the charm of the snowy Alps transported to the serene UK countryside for a festive Christmas event this was the extraordinary vision that WH Silverbacks was tasked to bring to life.  Dubbed the ‘Après Ski’ style event, this one-off project required the utmost creativity and technical expertise to construct a ski resort-like wonderland on private property.

To achieve this ambitious undertaking, WH Silverbacks collaborated with another leading company in stretch tents and trussing. Together, we engineered an unforgettable immersive experience for a spectacular evening that fused hospitality, entertainment, and a touch of winter magic.

This niche project demanded more than the usual event preparation. It required a robust team of skilled professionals from WH Silverbacks, our partners, project managers, and other key suppliers.  The coordination of this project unfolded over five days of intense work during the typically cold weather of a British winter.

The event featured lorries, trailers, portable facilities, heavy concrete weights and timber; all of which contributed to the creation of a winter-themed spectacle. Disco balls in every conceivable size were also incorporated into the design!  Our team created two key spaces at the event.

Under 21’s Chill Out Area:

The first part focused on the ‘Under 21’s’ chill out area, positioned on the front drive of the client’s home.  To protect the newly installed driveway, strategic weighting was essential.  Once green carpeting was laid, the WH Silverbacks team created the interior, with stud walling serving as the foundation for a 20-meter-wide panoramic Alpine scene. Printed on durable PVC, the scene was divided into four sections and meticulously attached to the stud walls, which were subsequently installed along the marquee sides.

A navy blue stretch roof lining, custom made by our partners in South Africa, was then fitted to evoke the night sky, peaking at the center of the structure to amplify the immersive atmosphere. This set the stage for the production and furniture teams, who brought in lighting to mimic the aurora borealis, cozy furnishings, and engaging, themed, games.

Adjacent to the main area, we erected a couple of pagodas alongside a 9x5m marquee, which facilitated the serving of canapés and other treats to guests throughout the evening.

Catering Area:

Another significant area was the catering zone, which had to be securely ballasted due to the existing underground utilities.  Near the catering vans, we constructed an inviting ‘Après Ski’ style setting with a chino coloured stretch tent roof and window wall panels.

The space was prepped with dandy dura matting; then, the stretch tent roof was installed. Conscientious placement of weights was critical before laying out the matting and erecting the roof. Timber-framed clear PVC panelled windows and sliding doors were added to maintain transparency and accessibility. Festoons adorned the area, creating a cozy, inviting space.

Through meticulous planning and creative execution, the alpine ski resort-themed evening was a resounding success. The space, adorned with festive décor, real foliage, and atmospheric lighting, transported guests to a venue reminiscent of the Alps amidst snowfall.

At WH Silverbacks, we love helping our clients set the stage for whatever wild or wonderful theme they’ve got in mind.  This project is a perfect example of how a rock solid set up, creativity and clever decoration and set dressing can bring just about any crazy idea to life!

Have a Big Vision for Your Event? – Collaborate with WH Silverbacks – Get In Touch

Whether you’re looking to recreate the Alpine slopes into a UK based Alpine Resort Experience or envision another themed experience, we’d love to hear your ideas and provide tailor made solutions to bring it to life.

• Tel: 01202 096957
• Email: info@whsilverbacks.co.uk