Custom Services and Rate Structures
Apex Arts Access Consulting takes a multifaceted approach to creating inclusive environments in music venues, galleries, theatres and cultural event spaces through tailored solutions.
Whether it’s a permanent venue or a one-time event in an outdoor or non-traditional space, I’ll work with you to implement practical accessibility solutions that fit your budget and needs. Sliding scale rates are available for non-profits and artist-run DIY spaces.
My Audit Framework
The Built Environment
A physical audit covering entrances, pathways, washrooms, stages, and green rooms. Identifies barriers and provides practical, non-structural solutions that work within your space and budget.
The Adaptive Environment
Addresses attitudinal and cultural accessibility by creating flexible, inclusive spaces that support sensory comfort, cultural practices, and diverse needs.
Human Capacity
Focuses on staff training, workplace well-being, and safety through guidance on harm reduction, violence prevention, and mental health crisis response.
One-on-One Consulting
Accessibility consulting for arts, music, and hospitality spaces informed by over 20 years of hands-on venue, performance, and hospitality experience. Sessions are $100 per hour, billed in half-hour increments, with the first 15 minutes free. Sliding scale rates available for non-profits and DIY spaces with demonstrable need. Includes a follow-up by email to help apply recommendations.
Phone, video and in-person meetings available.
Future-proof your space by planning for tomorrow
Discovery Session
A collaborative walk-through and discussion to highlight accessibility opportunities and guide your next steps.
Accessibility Audit
Assess venues and performance spaces to identify barriers and strengths, with practical, affordable recommendations.
Strategy & Planning
Follow-up sessions to turn audit findings into an actionable plan with timelines, budgets, and priorities.
Workshops and Training
Tailored sessions for staff and volunteers focused on accessibility, inclusion, anti-oppression, and harm reduction.
Partnerships
Collaborations with arts organizations and non-profits on support materials, training, and grant-funded accessibility work through the Better Backstages initiative.
Virtual Accessibility Guides
Visual PDF guides showing accessible routes, amenities, and key details for guests and performers.
Access Riders
Custom artist access riders outlining sensory, mobility, and mental-health accommodations.
Peak Audio Partnership
Apex Arts Access clients receive exclusive discounted rates with Halifax’s Peak Audio Video for projects that support accessibility and inclusion. Acoustic modeling, installations, and smart automation solutions are managed through the company’s owner, my brother, Michael Merrigan, offering full project management.
Discovery Session
This service is a collaborative starting point. While not a comprehensive measurement-based audit, it is a high-level walk-through and strategy session designed to highlight key opportunities for immediate improvement without extensive renovations.
The session includes a mini-audit, taking key measurements in a specific room or area (for example, a stage or entrance). Detailed notes and photos are taken and a follow-up report provided.
Starting Rate
$1500
Best For
What This Session Provides
You will gain a new perspective on your space and a clear starting point for immediate improvements. The session highlights practical, non-structural changes and creates a framework for meaningful discussion with your board or team.
A High-Level Snapshot
This session is not a detailed, measurement-based audit of the entire facility. It can help clarify whether a full audit is the appropriate next step for your organization. It is also an excellent option for smaller budgets.
Full Facility Audit
This service is a detailed built environment audit of your facility. It goes beyond compliance to examine accessibility from a usability and equity perspective. My approach combines my own auditing system, applying recognized best practices as well as practical insights from lived experience.
The Audit Process
The audit typically requires one to two full days on-site, during which I take selected measurements, photographs, and detailed notes across key areas of your space. The result is a broad, accurate snapshot of accessibility in your space.
Starting Rate
$2500
*Priced based on timeline, size and complexity of the space and operations, and number of components requested.
Best For
Comprehensive Report
Following the site visit, I prepare a detailed report that identifies barriers, highlights strengths, and provides a clear plan for both immediate and longer-term changes across all areas. This report is intended as guidance based on CSA Guidelines and should not be used as construction or renovation specifications – all physical changes should be planned and carried out with architectural or construction professionals.
Post-Audit Strategy & Planning Workshop
A facilitated working session with your leadership team to review audit findings and create a realistic, phased action plan. By the end of the session, your team will have a draft roadmap that includes priorities, budget considerations, and timelines for implementation.
Half-Day Session
$1200
This session can be broken up into two separate sessions.
Best For
Better Backstages Audit Training Workshop
$1200Starting rate
Part 1 Staff Training (2 hours):
I train your staff to use my audit tool to review your spaces. Training materials are provided.
Part 2 – Review & Recommendations (2 hours):
I review your team’s findings, provide feedback on their approach, and highlight prioritized solutions. You will receive a summary of my observations to guide your planning, while your team develops their own internal report format.
Best For: Organizations that want to develop internal skills and receive expert input without commissioning a full audit.
Staff Accessibility Training
$520General Rate
This live training session equips your staff and volunteers with accessibility best practices that can be applied immediately. The content is tailored to your organization’s needs and includes Toolkit training materials for participants.
Pricing: $520+ (for a 2-hour session; additional time or customization available)
Best For: Festival staff, venues, and event teams seeking practical, hands-on training in accessibility.
Sliding Scale For Unfunded, DIY Spaces
I recognize that for DIY spaces and non-profits with demonstrable need, budgeting for accessibility can be complex. For custom projects, I can operate on a sliding scale and offer flat rates, making budgeting more predictable.
Flat-rate pricing works best when we have a clear, structured plan with defined goals, but I’m happy to discuss an approach that makes sense for everyone.
Schedule a Free 15-Minute Consult
Start with a free consultation to talk about your space, your goals, and where accessibility fits in. I’ll help you figure out the best first step, whether that’s a walk-through, an audit, or a workshop for your team.