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Common House

Lighting, Drape, Decor, Stage & AV Rentals

Common House

About

Common House offers a sophisticated contemporary social club atmosphere for celebrations up to 200 guests. This six-story venue blends vintage Richmond charm with eclectic modern design across multiple distinctive spaces including Union Hall, the Madison Wing with stunning wraparound windows and historic tin ceilings, the open-air Courtyard with weatherproof pergola, and a rooftop pool with urban skyline views. The venue's all-inclusive approach includes in-house catering, custom menus from the Executive Chef, Sommelier-curated wines, modern furnishings, and professional service staff.

Union Hall serves as the flagship event space, featuring soaring ceilings, expansive windows bathing the room in natural light, and an open layout perfect for complete customization. The impressive ceiling height creates exceptional opportunities for dramatic hanging decor installations that transform the industrial-chic space. Statement chandeliers suspended at varying heights add elegance and functional lighting while serving as stunning focal points throughout the hall. From modern geometric fixtures to classic crystal designs, overhead lighting installations make use of the venue's architectural framework to create layered visual interest.

Paper lanterns in various sizes offer playful hanging decor options that bring whimsy and color to celebrations. Clustered at different heights across the ceiling, these lightweight installations create dynamic visual effects that complement the venue's modern aesthetic. Disco balls add retro glamour and dancing light reflections that energize the dance floor. The combination of multiple hanging elements at varying heights creates depth and dimension while honoring the building's industrial heritage.

Professional uplighting transforms Union Hall and the Madison Wing, casting customized color washes across the brick walls and architectural details that enhance any wedding palette. Strategic placement of uplights around the perimeter creates ambiance while accentuating the impressive ceiling height and original architectural features. The venue's exposed brick walls and historic tin ceilings provide excellent surfaces for dramatic lighting that can shift the atmosphere from sophisticated cocktail hour to vibrant dance party throughout the evening.

The Madison Wing's wraparound windows and built-in bar benefit from uplighting that highlights the historic tin ceiling and wood floors, creating warm intimate atmosphere for ceremonies or cocktail hours. The open-air Courtyard transforms beautifully under string lights and landscape illumination, while the rooftop pool offers spectacular sunset views enhanced by thoughtful lighting design.

With dedicated event coordinators led by Director of Events Liz Arline, exceptional locally-sourced cuisine, full bar services, audiovisual equipment, and the flexibility of multiple connected spaces, Common House delivers a seamless all-inclusive experience. The combination of modern industrial-chic design, multiple unique venues within one building, and sophisticated hanging decor and uplighting enhancements creates an unforgettable setting that brings each couple's vision to life in Richmond's vibrant Arts District.

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