b'NEWANDRENOVATED VENUESWhats new in meeting and events sites in Canadaby Warren HeeleyVenuesforcorporatemeetingsandeventsinCanadaseemtobeinaneverendingprocessof renovatingcurrentfacilitiesandopeningnewspace.Therationaleforthisongoingprocessas expressed by senior executives of such venues is to catch up with new trends in meeting and event space and improve services for their guests and attendees.CME approached a number of Canadas leading meetings and events companies that have either been through recent renovations or opened new facilities in the recent past. We asked about highlights of the new spaces and what they are now offering to their clients. Heres what we learned.CN TOWER LOOKOUT LEVELThe CN Tower in Toronto recently completed an extensive renovation of their Lookout Level. One of the priorities of the renovation was to remove barriers and improve accessibility on this floor.The space now features floor to ceiling window walls that provide a panoramic view of the city and Lake Ontario from 114 stories up. These full height windows replaced previous half height walls that created restricted views for some visitors including those who use wheelchairs. The renovation also removed other barriers such as risers for seating that required visitors to step up for access.The Lookout Level now features space that can accommodate up to 700 attendees for events and meetings with adaptive space (modular walls) for any size of event up to the maximum capacity. The space also features audio visual and sound screens that are integrated into the design of the rooms. This new space is ideal for product launches, announcements and other corporate events overlooking the lights of Toronto.As listed on its website, the CN Tower is committed to ensuring there is a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone who visits the site. Barrier-free access is taken as a responsibility by the Tower and the site is Accessibility Certified by the Rick Hansen Foundation.According to Jennifer Paige, Director of Marketing and Communications, The new Lookout Level can be easily adapted to accommodate the wide variety of needs of our guests as well as creating accessibility and inclusivity for everyone who attends an event.42 CORPORATE MEETINGS & EVENTS corporatemeetingsnetwork.ca'