Accessible Venues for All: How to Choose Inclusive Event Spaces

Corporate Venues With Inclusive Facilities: Thinking Beyond Ramps

Accessibility is often associated with wheelchair-friendly event venues, but that's just one piece of the puzzle. A truly inclusive event space caters for people with a wide range of needs, from physical disabilities to sensory sensitivities, and dietary restrictions. 

Start by making sure the venue has not only ramps and lifts, but also wide, clear pathways for movement. Check that doorways are wide enough for mobility equipment and that seating is easily accessible for all attendees, including those using wheelchairs or scooters.

But it doesn't stop there. Inclusivity also means thinking about people with visual or hearing impairments. Does the venue have visual aids such as large screens, easy-to-read signage or Braille markers for important areas? 

Are there facilities for subtitles or sign language interpreters during presentations? Sound quality is also important. Look for venues that minimise background noise and provide assistive listening devices for those who need them. Providing materials in multiple formats, such as digital and printed copies, can also make a big difference.

Other Facilities in Accessible Corporate Event Venues

Venues prioritising accessibility think about many things — here are a few things to consider:

1. Restroom Access: This is non-negotiable. Restrooms should be accessible, with features such as grab bars, low sinks, and enough room for a wheelchair to manoeuvre. If the venue has gender-neutral washrooms, that's another bonus that promotes inclusivity for all attendees.

2. Location and transportation: An inclusive corporate event venue is easy to reach. Check for accessible public transport nearby and ensure that corporate venues with disabled parking are also on your list of must-haves. If your event is in a more remote location, consider providing accessible transport for participants who cannot drive or use the local transport system.

3. Inclusive catering options: When catering for an event, it’s important that your menu is thoughtful and inclusive. This means it should include offering vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-friendly options and ensuring that food is clearly labelled. A venue prepared to cater for various dietary requirements shows that it has considered the full spectrum of inclusivity.

4. Staff training: Disability-friendly corporate venues can have all the right features, but if the staff aren't knowledgeable or compassionate, they can still fall short. 

Check whether the venue's staff have received accessibility training and how they deal with requests for accommodation. A warm, understanding attitude goes a long way to making everyone feel welcome, and staff who are prepared to help with any special needs will ensure that your event runs smoothly for everyone.

5. Flexibility in design: Some venues prioritising accessibility make provision for flexible seating, lighting, or layouts to accommodate different needs. An ideal venue can adjust lighting levels, provide quieter areas for those with sensory sensitivities, or rearrange seating for mobility devices. 

Check whether the venue has movable furniture, adjustable lighting and areas that can provide a break from noise and crowding for those who may need it.

Top Inclusive Corporate Venues Around the Globe

With the rise of inclusive venues for all, more and more accessible meeting spaces are cropping up all over the world. Here are some of our top picks.

1. A Quirky and Eye-Catching Wheelchair-Friendly Venue in Brussels

Step into an auditorium where inclusivity shapes the whole experience. Decorated with bold murals and bright colours, this quirky and eye-catching wheelchair-friendly venue in Brussels goes beyond aesthetics — it is designed to ensure that everyone, including those with limited mobility, can enjoy the event to the full.

The spacious layout allows for easy movement, with wide aisles and plenty of room for wheelchair users or anyone who needs extra space. Accessible sinks and restrooms are conveniently located at the seating level, ensuring that no one has to walk far to find facilities. Parking is also thoughtfully arranged, with dedicated accessible spaces close to the entrance, making it easy for attendees with mobility needs to enter.

Designed to accommodate up to 70 people, the amphitheatre-style seating ensures clear sight lines for everyone, while the seating arrangements allow for flexibility to accommodate different needs. The venue is fully wheelchair accessible from the entrance to the seating areas, ensuring that every guest feels comfortable and included.

In addition to practical features such as high-speed WiFi, a large presentation screen, and professional sound equipment, the space prioritises comfort with plush seating and soft lighting. The adjacent lounge, stylish bar and cosy seating areas provide a relaxed setting for informal meetings or breaks between sessions.

With accessible parking, seating and facilities, this auditorium is more than just functional –-- it is an inclusive, welcoming space for all.

2. An Elegant London Event Venue With Accessible Features

Located close to the London Docks, this elegant event venue with accessible features has been designed to be fully inclusive and welcoming to all. With convenient ground-floor access and wide double doors, the wheelchair-friendly venue is easy to enter for guests using wheelchairs or mobility aids. Once inside, the spacious, open layout allows for effortless movement, making it the perfect setting for a variety of events, from corporate meetings to creative workshops or production shoots.

This inclusive approach extends to the on-site canteen, which provides a relaxed, easily accessible space for breaks and refreshments. Accessibles parking ensures that getting to the venue is hassle-free. The flexibility of the studio means it can be adapted to suit the nature of your event, creating a welcoming environment where everyone can participate comfortably.

The space can accommodate up to 80 people and is well-equipped with essential amenities, including furniture, WiFi, and sound equipment. This ensures that all logistical requirements are met without compromising accessibility.

3. A Historic 1932 Bistro in Paris With an Inclusive Menu

This historic 1932 bistro in Paris is not just a picturesque venue but a space that caters to diverse needs, making it ideal for networking events. Its customisable menu and versatile outdoor area create an atmosphere that welcomes everyone, no matter their preferences.

The tailored menu allows the venue to adapt to a wide range of dietary requirements and culinary tastes. Whether guests need vegan, gluten-free, or more traditional options, the flexibility ensures everyone can enjoy the experience without compromise. This makes it a space where no one feels left out, and each guest is considered.

The outdoor area adds another layer of comfort and accessibility. It provides a fresh-air escape, ideal for guests who prefer a more relaxed, open setting. Whether for a quiet conversation or a pause between sessions, it’s a thoughtful addition to the venue's design.

With its vintage floral wallpaper, plush red velvet seating, and charming Parisian flair inside, combined with an open and welcoming outdoor space, the venue effortlessly blends character with flexibility. It can host up to 50 guests, whether for a larger gathering or a more intimate event, ensuring that every occasion is unique and welcoming.

Wrapping Up

Choosing an accessible and inclusive venue is more than just a smart business decision. It's a commitment to making sure everyone feels valued and can fully participate in your event. By considering the diverse needs of your attendees, you'll create a welcoming, supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Good luck!