Special events are a key driver of hotel revenue. Ideally, the hotel will be able book the event and capture a large percentage of attendees as overnight guests. With that said, the hotel will miss out on both fronts if the facility is not designed to accommodate a large influx of event guests. Keep reading as we explore some of the best tips for designing a secure and accessible event space for hotels.

 

Leverage Demountable Partitions

There is no better friend when designing an event space than demountable partitions. The best partition walls and event guards will allow you to quickly and conveniently define space. This will ensure correct traffic flow, enhance security, and keep the event sequestered from day-to-day hotel operations.

 

Many types of floor-to-ceiling partitions offer a sound buffer that helps keep noise local to the event. However, if extra noise mitigation is required, look into acoustical wall panels. They provide excellent sound absorbing mass, offering up to a .95 NRC with as little as 15-25% wall coverage. This will go a long way toward guaranteeing that overnight guests are not disturbed by the event proceedings.

 

Create a Stunning Entrance

Hotel event space entrance with lights and lush greenery.

“You don’t get a second chance at a first impression.”

 

It’s one of the world’s most enduring cliches, thanks largely to the truth it conveys.

 

Set the tone for a successful event by designing a breathtaking entrance. Have bold signage welcoming guests, with lights and decorations festooning the entryway. Ensure that the surrounding landscape is top-notch. Clean sidewalks, trim trees, and add some colorful plants to enhance the ambiance. Check the condition of the windows, touching up as necessary, to add a crystalline aspect that leverages the mood-boosting properties of natural sunlight.

 

Guarantee ADA Compliance

Not only a matter of law, ensuring top-notch ADA compliance is paramount for a successful event. Research by Accenture indicates that leaders in disability inclusion outperform their peers financially. As such, guaranteeing ADA compliance will go a long way toward determining the impact of the event.

 

There are myriad factors to consider when designing for ADA compliance. Make sure there are ramps and automated doors available at all ADA entrances. Check ada handrail height requirements for restrooms and walkways. Display adequate signage directing ADA patrons to elevators and any other ADA accommodations. Beef up the facility’s connectivity features so that hearing- and vision-impaired guests can access important event features on their preferred devices.

 

Establish Comprehensive Lighting

Event dining room in a hotel with a lake view.

Lighting is a critical aspect of a safe and accessible event. It can help visitors feel comfortable in their surroundings and allow them to quickly identify key landmarks in the facility. In addition, it sets the stage for a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

 

Try to get as much natural light into the event as possible via windows and skylights. As the sun goes down, leverage smart lighting systems that can adjust their intensity based on the ambient lighting conditions. Use LED accent lighting throughout the event center to highlight key architectural features. Have an adequate spotlighting system to draw attention to keynote speakers and important displays. When possible, use motion-detected lighting so that guests unfamiliar with the space do not have to spend time searching for a switch.

Ensure Adequate Waste Removal

Hosting an event will put an acute strain on the hotel’s waste removal infrastructure. As such, it is crucial to plan for comprehensive event sanitation to promote the health, safety, and enjoyment of both event and non-event guests.

 

Consider adding some extra roll-off dumpsters. If food will be provided, check on the availability of compost bins for the most mindful disposal possible. Consider whether the hotel’s existing restroom facilities are adequate. The general rule is that there should be one toilet for every 30 guests. However, this will be insufficient if alcohol is served. Hire port-a-johns and handwashing stations as necessary. It is also crucial to ensure that there is adequate custodial staff on hand to keep the event space clean throughout its duration. It is a great idea to have a hydrovac service on call to clean up any large-scale or potentially toxic spills.

 

Pay Attention to Parking

Don’t fall into the trap of assuming that parking is auxiliary to the event. In many cases, it can determine the event outcome before it ever starts. A lack of safe, affordable parking will shade guests’ impressions from the get-go.

 

For hotels with attached lots, make sure that all potholes are filled and lines are clearly painted. In downtown locations, have clear signage around the hotel’s periphery directing guests to the nearest garage. Design dedicated rideshare and shuttle drop-off locations to accommodate guests who aren’t driving their own vehicles.

 

Guarantee a Welcoming Ambiance with Meticulous Event Space Design

Special events are one of the key drivers of hotel revenues. From demountable partitions to a seamless parking experience, consider any of the ideas listed above for a secure and accessible hotel event. For more of the latest trends shaping the commercial real estate sector, explore the content at CHRE for ideas and inspiration today!

 

Author Bio:

Sam Willis is a freelance writer that loves sharing his knowledge and expertise in residential and commercial real estate, as well as engineering, construction, and business. He lives in Atlanta, Georgia where he enjoys spending time with his wife and researching real estate trends in his free time. Sam’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a construction industry resource site.