Sensory Space at Ashling

Dublin’s Ashling Hotel has unveiled a new sensory family bedroom, specifically designed for children and their family staying at the hotel. It is the first such facility in a Dublin hotel.

The proximity of the Ashling to St James’ Hospital and other neighbouring hospitals means that they frequently have families staying who are attending various medical appointments. 

This, coupled with the fact that autism awareness charity "AsIAm" is a long-standing designated charity partner, led to the idea to have a tailor-made family bedroom suite specifically aimed at offering a true sensory sensitive room for guests.  

Managing Director and GM Ronan Walsh said the room would provide a positive effect on all five senses.

"Many families who visit the hotel have autism, dementia or ADHD difficulties for one or more children, and through our many years of engaging with them we determined that it would be beneficial for them to have this space at the hotel.  

"Having a child with a sensory sensitive condition is always a huge challenge when a family chooses to stay in a hotel, so we are delighted we chose to address this in a meaningful way and are proud that Adam and AsIAm believe this bedroom will significantly help any parent and child staying in the Ashling."

The sensory installations include interactive speakers, LED colour changing lights, laser projection and a diffuser. The "star of the show" is a bubbling water tower with colour lights.

AsIAm CEO Adam Harris said: "Autistic people, and our families, deserve the same chance to live, work and play in the community, and accessible hotels are key to delivering this vision."