When using the tent for glamping accomodation, many people are choosing to build dedicated platforms for their tent for which we think there are two main options. One is to build a timber deck and another is to create a raised "pad" out of crusher dust or similar free-draining material.
Here are some points about both options:
Timber decks look great, allow ventilation to get under the tent keeping the underside of the groundsheet fairly clean and dry, and drain fairly well if designed correctly.
Crusher dust is easy to build with, has excellent drainage and provides a softer surface to walk and lie on, as well as giving great shape to the tent.
Timber decks are prone to allowing wind to get under the tent and force it upwards. They are also very firm to walk or lie on (we would definitely recommend one of our recycled mats to make it more forgiving) and because of their rigidity they can force the tent poles higher than usual, sometimes affecting tent shape. They are also time consuming and expensive to build (they need footings or foundations).
Crusher dust is more messy (however this can be alleviated by wetting and plate compacting your material) and may require the use of a second layer underneath the groundsheet to protect it from any sharp stones.
A cheaper alternative to timber decking is to use modified shipping pallets and concrete pre made footings which rest on the ground rather than being sunk into holes. This solution may not be right for every situation.