Aseman Hotel in Isfahan (2023)
Empowering Accessibility case study in Iran
Accessibility Assessment of Aseman Hotel, Isfahan (2023)
The assessment was conducted in collaboration with a representative of the Isfahan Blind Association, followed by a practical training session for hotel staff.
Overview
In 2023, folks checked how accessible Aseman Hotel really is – one of Isfahan’s popular 4* star spots. They did this alongside someone from the Isfahan Blind Association, then ran a hands-on training session for the hotel team right after.
This example shows what the hotel did well, where it can do better, while focusing on welcoming guests who have trouble moving around, seeing, or facing other access challenges.
Methodology
The check followed local access rules along with global standards like ISO 21902.
It included:
- Check parking, then move to the entrance. Look at each room after that. Skip to elevators before checking the restaurant.
- Finally, inspect restrooms one by one
- Checking how well movement tools work along with screen visibility options Interviews with staff
- A short practical workshop lasting two hours, made for porters and front desk workers,
around ten people joining in
Key Strengths Identified
✔ Accessible Parking
• Reserved spots for people with disabilities
• Enough space on the side so wheelchairs fit through
• A clear path straight to the door – no barriers in the way
✔ Main Entrance
• A working ramp that’s easy to reach
• Good railings – just on a single side
• Good incline for moving without risk
✔ Indoor Circulation & Elevators
• Elevators that have touch-sensitive buttons
• Plenty of room to turn around easily if you’re using a wheelchair
• Good response from a person with vision challenges
✔ Accessible Guestroom Features
• Adequate space for a wheelchair to turn around
• Make sure there’s open room next to the mattress
• Furniture set up right so you can move around easily
✔ Restaurant Access
• Ramp put in to get up to where we eat
• Guests who need help can count on team members being around to lend a hand
✔ Staff Engagement & Training
Leaders were keen on making things easier to reach.
The training covered
• How to engage visitors who have trouble moving around or seeing well
• Ways to help blind visitors move around safely
• Proper wheelchair assistance
• Practical problem-solving scenarios
Challenges Noted
Even with tight spaces common in old structures, this place managed solid improvements, yet it’s still working on more. No serious access issues popped up – though:
- Changes might get made later on during updates.
- Just a single handrail on one side by the front entry ramp
- Not much room in some spots because of how buildings are set up
Conclusion
Aseman hotel shows real effort when it comes to access. Always one step ahead, tackling barriers before they become issues.
The hotel’s updating its layout while training workers so older visitors, people with mobility
challenges, or anyone needing simpler access can get around better. It’s not just one fix
but both changes working together to make stays smoother for everyone who needs extra
support getting through spaces.
This example shows Iranian hotels making realistic moves – despite everyday limits – to build spaces that feel safer, cozier, even more open for all kinds of guests.
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