Bespoke Woodwork vs. Modular Systems: When to Choose Custom Carpentry for Your Event
When planning an international event in Spain, deciding on the construction method is a critical technical crossroad. Both modular systems and bespoke carpentry offer distinct advantages; the right choice depends on your design requirements, budget, and brand sustainability goals.
At Saez Decom, we operate our own in-house carpentry workshop in Barcelona while maintaining an extensive stock of beMatrix modular frames. This dual capability allows us to provide an objective analysis of which system suits your project best, without any commercial bias.
Technical Comparison: Modular vs. Custom Carpentry
To help you make an informed decision, we have summarized the key technical differences between these two production methods:
| Feature | Modular Systems (e.g., beMatrix) | Custom Carpentry (Bespoke) |
| Design Flexibility | High (within standard angles) | Unlimited (curves, organic shapes) |
| Assembly Time | Very Fast (standardized assembly) | Moderate (requires joinery & finishing) |
| Sustainability | Excellent (reusable frames) | High (when using FSC-certified wood) |
| Finishes | Textile (SEG) or rigid panels | Natural wood, lacquers, laminates |
| Cost Profile | Efficient for standard structures | Higher investment in labor & material |
| Logistics | Highly efficient (lightweight) | Lower efficiency (bulky panels) |
When to Prioritize Modular Systems
Modular engineering, specifically the beMatrix system, is the industry standard for high-performance exhibition stands. We recommend this approach when:
Sustainability is a Key KPI: The aluminum frames are reused thousands of times, significantly minimizing waste generated at each show.
Timeframes are Tight: In venues with strict load-in schedules (such as Fira Barcelona or IFEMA), the speed of modular assembly is a vital operational advantage.
Logistics Efficiency: The lightweight nature of aluminum reduces transport costs and the carbon footprint associated with moving materials.
Custom Event Carpentry and the FSC Commitment
There are scenarios where standardized frames cannot satisfy the creative or technical demands of a project. Our custom event carpentry in Spain is the preferred solution for:
1. Exclusive Brand Architecture
When the design features curves, circular counters, or unconventional angles that modular grids simply cannot replicate with precision.
2. Premium Tactile Finishes
If your brand requires specific textures—such as real wood veneers or high-gloss lacquered surfaces—woodwork is the only way to achieve that sense of luxury and warmth.
3. Responsible Sustainability (FSC Certification)
We are deeply aware of the environmental impact of timber use. Therefore, in our workshop, we exclusively use FSC-certified wood (Forest Stewardship Council).
What does this mean? All the timber we transform comes from responsibly managed forests that guarantee biodiversity and protect workers’ rights.
This ensures that our bespoke solutions meet the strictest Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) standards of the most demanding international agencies.
The Hybrid Strategy: The Saez Decom Approach
Most of our high-impact projects utilize a hybrid approach. We use modular frames for the main structural walls (ensuring speed and cost-effectiveness) and integrate bespoke carpentry elements—such as unique reception desks or custom ceiling features—to provide the “wow” factor.
By having our own workshop, we ensure that the transition between modular and custom elements is seamless, maintaining 100% quality control over the final finish.
Technical Guidance for Your Next Build
Choosing the right system is a balance between aesthetics and logistics. Our technical team can review your 3D designs and advise on the most efficient construction method for your event in Spain. Contact Our Technical Team
