Checklist for planning a modular display layout

This modular layout checklist, also called a booth planning guide, turns a kit of parts into a stand that works for visitors and staff. Use it for every show, because booth sizes and open sides change.

This guide is part of the modular display designs series.

Footprint

• Booth size, type and open sides confirmed
• Height limits and sightline rules noted
• Aisle widths and neighbouring stands checked

Configuration

• Configuration chosen for this booth type
• Drawing printed with part numbers

Zones

• Hero product at the front, visible from the main aisle
• Display zone
• Conversation zone
• Hidden storage

Furniture

• Seating and tables sized to the booth
• Counter with lockable storage
• Display furniture at eye level
• Walkways of at least 60–90 cm

Signage

• Header high and readable from each open side
• Product signs at eye level
• Nothing blocked by furniture

Lighting and power

• Product lighting planned
• Power drops located and ordered
• Cable routes planned

Final checks

• Drawn to scale
• Team walkthrough
• Test build or floor taping at the office

What are the most common layout mistakes?

A table across the front, too many products, seating where staff can't see the aisle, visible storage and signage blocked by furniture or people.

How do you adapt the layout to booth types?

In-line booths keep everything along the back and sides; corner booths open to two aisles with the hero on the corner; peninsula and island booths put storage in the centre and face displays outward.

How do you plan furniture within the layout?

Plan furniture after zones and before signage. Place the hero piece where it's visible from the main aisle, put seating where staff can see the aisle, put the counter to one side of the entrance and storage at the back. Use exact dimensions from spec sheets and leave walkways of at least 60–90 cm.

How do you check sightlines?

From each open side, check what a visitor sees first. The hero product and header should be visible; storage, cables and cases should not. Low items go at the front, tall items at the back.

How do you plan for accessibility?

Keep entrances and walkways wide enough for wheelchairs, avoid raised edges or ramp them, and place key information and tablets where seated visitors can reach and read them.

How do you test the layout before the show?

Tape the footprint on the floor at your office, place the actual furniture and walk through it with the team. Photograph it from the aisle position. Adjust anything that feels crowded or blocks the view.

What should the final drawing include?

Booth dimensions, open sides, configuration parts, zones, furniture with dimensions, signage positions, power drops, lighting fixtures, storage and walkways. Print it for build-up day and keep a copy in the display kit.

How do you plan storage within the layout?

Every stand needs somewhere to put bags, coats, stock, literature, cases and cleaning supplies. Plan it on the drawing: a lockable counter at the front, a closet or cupboard at the back or a storage core in the centre of an island booth. If storage isn't planned, clutter ends up on view.

How do you plan power and lighting within the layout?

Mark power drops on the plan, decide which items need power (lights, screens, chargers, lightboxes) and route cables under flooring or along frames. Place lighting so it falls on products and furniture, not on the aisle.

How do you plan for staffing in the layout?

Mark where staff will stand: at the front edge facing the aisle, at the conversation area and near the counter. Make sure staff positions don't block the entrance.

Related

Trade event layout plan template.