**Introduction**
At Sesame Access, we are often approached by architects and contractors seeking creative ways to make buildings fully inclusive without compromising on aesthetics. A recent enquiry from Scandinavia highlighted just how vital it is to balance design ambitions, local building standards, and practical installation requirements.
**Design Challenges and Standards**
When designing an internal lift for an office building, one of the first considerations is compliance with safety standards. For example, once a lift’s travel rise exceeds one metre, regulations often require full enclosures or safety barriers. This influences not only the type of lift chosen but also the pit depth and structural design around the staircase.
**Exploring Sesame Solutions**
Our team reviewed several options to ensure the project could remain flexible while still offering elegant accessibility. Among the lifts discussed were:
- **Buckingham Lift** – a vertical retracting stair solution, ideal for settings where space beneath the stairs allows for deeper pit installation.
- **Mayfair Lift** – a horizontal retracting stair design requiring a shallower pit, offering flexibility for projects with tighter structural limits.
- **Westminster Lift** – a fully enclosed platform lift for rises above one metre, providing maximum safety compliance.
By presenting multiple pathways, Sesame helps architects and contractors match the right lift to both the site’s technical requirements and the project’s budget.
**Tailored Guidance for Contractors**
A key part of our service is providing early-stage advice. Questions such as “What pit depth is available below the lower landing?” or “Can the total rise be adjusted to remain within a specific threshold?” can make the difference between one solution being feasible or another. In this way, Sesame ensures contractors are equipped with the right technical knowledge before they present options back to the client or architect.
**Beyond the Numbers**
While discussions naturally involve budgets, our emphasis is on long-term value. The integration of products like the Buckingham, Mayfair, and Westminster lifts demonstrates Sesame’s ability to offer both aesthetic excellence and compliance, ensuring that inclusivity is embedded into the design from the outset.
**Q&A**
**Q: Can Sesame lifts be used in new builds as well as refurbishments?**
A: Yes, our lifts are installed worldwide in both new and existing buildings, tailored to the available space and standards.
**Q: How does Sesame ensure compliance with different international standards?**
A: Our team references local codes alongside UK and European standards, and works directly with architects and contractors to identify any adjustments required.
**Q: What makes Sesame lifts unique?**
A: Their hidden design, seamless integration into staircases, and commitment to both safety and aesthetics make them stand out.