Creating Accessible Entrances for Heritage Hotels
When updating historic or listed buildings, architects face the challenge of balancing compliance with modern accessibility standards while preserving the character of the property. One of the most common requirements is to provide step-free access from street level into receptions and lobbies — especially in heritage hotels and public-facing spaces.
Understanding Platform Lift Regulations
UK standards such as BS 6440:2011 set strict requirements for platform lifts. For example, any rise above one metre requires full-height safety barriers around the platform. Earlier versions of the standard allowed shared use between standing passengers and wheelchair users, but post-2011 rules ensure that only wheelchair users travel without additional enclosure.
The Westminster Lift – Full Height Barriers
For projects where rises exceed one metre, the Westminster Lift is designed with full-height rising barriers to meet British Standards. While this solution provides complete compliance, it requires a pit depth of around 1.7m. Alternative specifications can reduce pit depth to 1m, but this increases complexity and cost.
Balancing Budget and Design
For architects and developers, budget is often the biggest constraint. While a Westminster Lift can deliver a premium, fully compliant solution, its bespoke nature means costs are typically higher. Options like the Windsor or Waterloo models can incorporate removable manual barriers, offering a lower-cost alternative — though they require staff to set up and remove components for each use.
Why Choose Sesame Access?
Unlike generic platform lifts, Sesame systems are carefully engineered to preserve aesthetics at the front entrance of landmark buildings. Our lifts are installed in iconic sites such as banks, government buildings, and cultural institutions across central London. Each solution is tailored to the specific rise, pit depth, and architectural requirements of the project.
Q&A Section
Q1: Why do lifts over one metre require full-height barriers?
Because British Standards mandate barriers to protect passengers when travelling over one metre in height.
Q2: Can Sesame lifts be installed in heritage buildings without damaging the appearance?
Yes. Each lift is bespoke and designed to replicate the existing steps or façade, maintaining the building’s character.
Q3: Are there lower-cost options available?
Yes. Options like manual removable barriers (e.g., Waterloo Lift) can reduce costs, though they require more operational input.
Q4: What pit depth is needed for a Westminster Lift?
Approximately 1.7m, though alternative versions can reduce this to 1m.
Q5: Why choose Sesame over standard platform lifts?
Because our designs combine compliance with aesthetics, ensuring accessibility without compromising heritage appearance.
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