Your Exhibition Stand Partner in Chicago
Exhibit Elevate is a global exhibition stand design and build company trusted by exhibitors across Chicago’s biggest trade shows. Startups and established brands alike choose us because we manage everything in-house — design, fabrication, installation, and dismantling — so nothing gets lost between vendors close to move-in day. We deliver projects across US, Europe and Middle East and provide the same standards to every stand we design, be it a modest booth or a massive custom exhibit.
Exhibiting at a location like McCormick Place is no small feat. Long lead periods, limited move-in windows, and hundreds of brands all trying to capture the same few seconds of attention. Having one team perform your stand from concept to breakdown takes a lot of the friction out, giving you a single point of contact instead of a designer, builder and install crew who have never worked together. That’s the kind of partnership we aim to build with every client in Chicago.
Ready to Elevate Your Exhibition Presence?
McCormick Place — Why the Venue Matters for Exhibitors
McCormick Place is North America’s largest conference facility with more than 2.6 million square feet of contiguous exhibit space in four inter-connected buildings: the North, South and West Buildings and Lakeside facility. Exhibitors can erect larger structures and bolder signs in the complex’s meeting rooms, which have ceilings up to 50 feet tall, than would be possible in a hall of normal height. Situated on Chicago’s lakefront minutes from downtown and accessible from two international airports, the facility makes logistics feasible even for exhibitors hauling in significant freight.
That’s why McCormick Place attracts such a diverse range of industries year-round, from the Chicago Auto Show and International Home + Housewares Show to the National Restaurant Association Show and big aviation and manufacturing events. With close to three million visitors passing through annually, exhibition in Chicago means competing for attention in one of the busiest show calendars in the country, and a stand that’s designed with intent stands a much better chance of getting noticed on a floor this size.
Why Choose Exhibit Elevate as Your Chicago Exhibition Booth Designer
- Global design, local execution. Our global design team works alongside dedicated project managers for on-the-ground support in Chicago, so you get international design standards with a team that knows the venue and its logistics.
- Transparent quoting. Pricing is agreed upfront, with no unexpected charges landing in your inbox after the show has closed.
- A track record you can check. Across shows in the US, Europe, and the Middle East, we've consistently hit move-in deadlines even on tight production timelines.
- Sustainable build options. We increasingly build stands using reusable and sustainable materials for clients who want their booth to reflect their environmental commitments as well as their brand.
Booth Design Tips for Chicago Trade Shows
- Use the ceiling height. McCormick Place's halls allow for structures up to 50 feet — tall back walls and hanging signage will register from across a wide aisle in a way a standard-height booth can't.
- Plan for scale and distance. With 2.6 million square feet spread across four buildings, foot traffic can be spread thin — a stand near a hall entrance or main aisle benefits from especially strong visual pull.
- Keep the layout open. Removing high counters or full enclosures makes it easier for visitors to step in rather than walk past.
- Design for a 8-second read. Attendees decide whether to stop within seconds — lead with a clear headline and visual, not dense product copy.
- Plan for engagement, not just display. A demo counter, seating area, or interactive screen gives visitors a reason to stay longer than a glance.
Ready to Elevate Your Exhibition Presence?
Your Partner for High-Impact Trade Show Success in Chicago
Exhibiting in Chicago means competing for attention in North America’s largest convention center, and a strong show result starts long before doors open. That’s where the right stand partner makes the difference.From initial design discussions to the final deconstruction, we work with you to create a stand that isn’t simply constructed to spec – it’s built to perform on the floor and represent your business the way you wanted.
We will provide you with a complete 3D design before any production begins, so there is no guesswork as to how your stand will look and perform on location. Our project managers coordinate the approval of design, fabrication, shipment, installation and dismantling and are in close contact all the way. From a small booth to a huge custom show, we offer the same care to your exhibit as we do to Chicago-area venues like McCormick Place.
Ready to start planning your next show in Chicago? Get a free 3D design concept and quote — no obligation, no pressure to commit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an exhibition stand design cost in Chicago?
Cost varies on stand size, materials and if it is custom built or rented. We understand your space and display requirements and give you a precise price.
How far in advance should I book a stand builder for a McCormick Place show?
If you are doing a larger show like the Chicago Auto Show or National Restaurant Association Show, we suggest starting the design process 8-12 weeks out to allow for approvals, manufacturing and logistics.
Do you build stands for shows outside McCormick Place?
Yes, We also design and construct for additional venues in the Chicago area including hotel-based conferences and smaller exhibition spaces.
Can I get both a custom stand and a rental option?
Yes. We do both and we can assist you decide what makes sense for your budget for the show and how often you are showing.