When designing an inclusive entrance for a hotel, commercial space, or heritage building, one of the most important considerations is wheelchair access over entrance steps. At Sesame Access, we specialise in hidden platform lifts tailored to unique site conditions. From shallow pit requirements to deeper installations, our bespoke lifts ensure safe, elegant accessibility without compromising architectural vision.
Understanding Pit Depth Requirements
One of the most common questions from architects and contractors is how much pit depth is needed for a hidden platform lift. Different lift models require different depths. For example, some shallow-pit options are designed to fit where excavation is limited, while others such as the Wellington Lift offer greater cost efficiency if more pit space is available.
The Wellington Lift
The Wellington Lift is a popular choice where deeper excavation is possible. Its design allows the retracting stairs to descend vertically, creating space for the platform lift to rise. While this requires a larger pit depth, it often reduces the overall cost of the lift due to simpler engineering compared to ultra-shallow alternatives.
Shallow Pit Alternatives
For projects with limited pit depth, Sesame Access also offers shallow-pit solutions such as the Mayfair Lift. These lifts are designed to deliver full accessibility in constrained environments, making them ideal for heritage sites, hotels, and other projects where excavation must be minimised.
Safety and Risk Considerations
Beyond pit depth, safety is a vital factor in lift installation. Our lifts incorporate features such as electric tow guard systems and wheelstop technology. Each installation also undergoes a detailed risk assessment to ensure safe use in public environments, whether in hotel receptions, retail centres, or other high-traffic areas.
Flexible Bespoke Design
Every lift Sesame designs is bespoke. Step number, orientation, cladding, and width can all be tailored to the project. This flexibility means we can balance pit depth, budget, and architectural requirements to provide the perfect solution for any setting.
Q&A Section
Q1: What is the minimum pit depth required for a Sesame lift?
A1: The shallowest pit option is around 210 mm, though this varies depending on the chosen lift model.
Q2: Is the Wellington Lift suitable for all buildings?
A2: The Wellington is ideal for locations where deeper excavation is possible. For restricted sites, shallow-pit models are recommended.
Q3: Can Sesame lifts be installed in heritage buildings?
A3: Yes, our bespoke design approach ensures compliance with heritage requirements while providing full accessibility.
Q4: What safety features are included?
A4: Lifts include features such as electric tow guards, wheelstop systems, and are subject to site-specific risk assessments.
Q5: Can the lifts be customised for cladding and finishes?
A5: Yes, cladding, finishes, and step orientation are all customisable to blend seamlessly with the project.
Relevant Links
If you would like to explore which lift solution best suits your project, please book a Teams Meeting with one of our Project Managers.