A Complete Guide to Customising Home Elevator Design

As homes evolve to meet the diverse needs of their occupants, home elevators are becoming an increasingly popular feature across the UK. Once considered a luxury, domestic lifts are now a practical solution for improving mobility, future-proofing homes, and adding value to properties. Beyond their functionality, home elevators can be customised to suit a homeowner’s aesthetic preferences, architectural style, and space requirements.

At ADL Lift Services, we specialise in creating bespoke lift solutions that seamlessly integrate with your home’s design while ensuring the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and style. Whether you require a lift for accessibility, convenience, or as a statement feature, this guide will help you navigate the many aspects of customising your home elevator design. From choosing the right lift type to selecting materials, technology, and maintenance solutions, we cover everything you need to know to make informed lift design decisions.



Understanding Home Elevators

Before diving into customisation options, it’s important to understand the different types of home elevators available. Choosing the right lift type will determine the extent of customisation possible, the installation process, and long-term functionality. A well-informed choice ensures that your lift not only meets current needs but also remains a valuable feature in your home for years to come.

Types of Home Elevators

Hydraulic Lifts: These lifts operate using a hydraulic pump and piston system. They are known for their smooth and quiet operation, making them a popular choice for residential properties. However, they require a separate machine room, which may impact available space.

Traction Lifts: These lifts use counterweights and an electric motor, eliminating the need for a machine room. They are energy-efficient and suitable for taller homes with multiple floors. Traction lifts are often preferred in homes where energy efficiency and space-saving are key priorities.

Pneumatic (Vacuum) Lifts: These space-saving lifts operate using air pressure. They are sleek, modern, and ideal for homes with limited space. Since they do not require its or machine rooms, they offer a hassle-free installation process and a contemporary design that suits minimalist interiors.

Platform Lifts: Often used for wheelchair access, platform lifts provide an open-style design and are typically installed for accessibility rather than as a full elevator replacement. These lifts can be incorporated indoors or outdoors, offering versatile mobility solutions for different home layouts.

At ADL Lift Services, we offer a range of lift types tailored to suit different homes, lifestyles, and budgets. We work closely with homeowners to identify the most suitable lift design for their home based on individual requirements and available space.

Choosing the Right Lift Style and Structure

A home elevator should blend seamlessly with the property’s existing structure while enhancing convenience and accessibility. Several lift products and design elements need to be considered when customising a lift to ensure it meets both functional and aesthetic requirements. A carefully designed lift can significantly enhance the home’s visual appeal and overall experience.

Cabin Size and Shape

The size and shape of your lift cabin will depend on space availability and intended usage. Key considerations include:

Compact Lifts: Ideal for small homes or where space is limited. These typically accommodate one or two passengers. They are perfect for city apartments or older homes where retrofitting space is constrained.

Standard-Sized Lifts: Suitable for families, allowing multiple passengers and luggage or heavy items to be transported. These lifts offer greater flexibility for households that need to accommodate different mobility needs.

Bespoke Shapes: Square, round, or curved lift cabins can be designed to match specific architectural features. A custom-shaped cabin adds a touch of individuality and ensures harmony with the home’s existing design elements.

Door Styles

The door style plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and functionality:

Sliding Doors: Automated and space-efficient, commonly used in modern lift designs. These are ideal for contemporary homes where a sleek and automated approach is desired.

Swing Doors: A more traditional option, often used in classic-style homes. Swing doors can be customised with decorative elements to match period architecture.

Glass Doors: Enhance visibility and create an open, contemporary feel. They allow natural light to pass through, reducing the feeling of enclosure in the lift.

Custom Lift Shafts

If you’re designing a lift from scratch, considering the lift shaft’s location and material is key to achieving a seamless home elevator design. Custom lift shafts can be constructed with glass for a transparent, modern effect, or enclosed in timber or metal for a more traditional appearance. The choice of materials can influence the overall ambience of your home, with options ranging from industrial aesthetics to opulent finishes.

A well-designed lift shaft enhances not only the lift’s performance but also its integration into your home. Whether you’re opting for a sleek, minimalist look or grand feature to complement a period property, our custom lift design services ensure that your home elevator blends effortlessly with your interior. Our team at ADL Lift Services works closely with clients to create fully customised lift design solutions, incorporating structural considerations, material choices, and aesthetic preferences. Every aspect, from safety regulations to design consistency, is taken into account to deliver a flawless installation that enhances both functionality and style.

Material and Finish Options

One of the most exciting aspects of custom lift design is selecting the materials and finishes that enhance the interior aesthetics of your life. From luxurious textures to sleek modern surfaces, there are countless possibilities to personalise your home elevator design.

Interior Materials

Glass: Provides a sophisticated, modern look and allows for natural light to enter, reducing the feeling of confinement.

Wood Panelling: Adds warmth and elegance, suitable for traditional or period-style homes. Different wood finishes, from oak to walnut, allow for further personalisation.

Stainless Steel: A durable, contemporary option that gives a high-end finish. Ideal for modern interiors that require a clean and polished look.

Aluminium: Lightweight and stylish, often used for minimalist designs. Its sleekness makes it a popular choice for urban homes and penthouses.

Flooring Choices

The flooring in your lift should be both stylish and practical:

Marble: Luxurious and elegant, ideal for classic home designs. Polished marble adds sophistication, while honed finishes provide a softer appearance.

Hardwood: Provides a warm, natural feel. Options like oak, maple, and cherry bring a touch of class.

Vinyl: A cost-effective, durable option available in various finishes, including wood and stone effects.

Carpet: Adds comfort and reduces noise. Plush carpets can provide an inviting feel and improved grip underfoot.

Lighting Options

Proper lighting enhances the overall experience of using the lift:

LED Spotlights: Energy-efficient and versatile, offering different colour temperatures to set the mood.

Chandeliers: Creates a statement feature for opulent interiors, perfect for luxury residences.

Ambient Lighting: Provides a soft, warm glow. Customisable lighting allows homeowners to adjust brightness levels for a tailored experience.

At ADL Lift Services, we offer extensive material and finish choices to ensure that your lift complements your home’s interior. Our goal is to make your lift an extension of your home’s design ethos.