The Sesame Access Knowledge Hub Full Archive provides concise summaries of all technical articles on bespoke lift design, accessibility standards, and engineering best practices. Each summary links to its full article for deeper reading.
Hidden platform lift for a historic entrance in Budapest
This case study explores the design and installation of a hidden platform lift for a historic entrance in Budapest. To preserve the building’s listed features and meet accessibility standards, the team engineered a bespoke lift concealed within the existing steps. Space was extremely limited, with shallow pit depth and structural constraints, so off-the-shelf solutions were not viable. The bespoke lift allowed the building to maintain its architectural integrity while providing safe, compliant access for wheelchair users. The project highlights how custom engineering and careful planning can overcome challenges in heritage settings, balancing preservation and accessibility. From initial consultation to final installation, the article details each step of the process, including design considerations, safety testing, and the unique mechanisms used to hide the lift within the staircase.
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