Key Takeaways

• Sesame Access hidden lifts combine architectural integration with fully bespoke engineering to create dignified access solutions for UK community buildings, British heritage properties and residential homes.

• Early collaboration between interior designers, architects, access consultants and lift engineers produces more accurate technical outcomes and reduces rework.

• Front-door access should always be prioritised for dignity, safety and independence instead of sending users through alternative or back-of-house routes.

• UK funding routes, including local authority health-outcome grants and community infrastructure levies, can help support inclusive design upgrades.

• Technical considerations such as gradients, turning circles, Part M compliance, BS 6440:2011, platform sizes and pit depths should be evaluated early in the design process.

• Sesame offers a wide range of hidden lift models, including the Waterloo Lift, the People’s Lift, the Edinburgh Access Lift, the Wellington Lift and the Buckingham Listed Building Lift, all of which can be tailored to suit UK sites.

Introduction

Inclusive design in the UK requires attention to both architectural integrity and the lived experiences of disabled users. Community buildings, heritage properties and residential homes all present different challenges, which often require bespoke hidden lifts that preserve aesthetics while delivering safe, dignified and independent access.

This article brings together insights from a detailed professional discussion about UK accessibility design, including evaluating front-entrance routes, selecting appropriate lift types, understanding pricing, exploring funding pathways, and gathering user feedback. It also integrates references to additional Sesame knowledge resources, including the How Sesame Access Manages Complex Lift Projects and Issues Raised Drawing Delivery guides.

Why UK Projects Should Prioritise Front-Door Access

In many UK community buildings, wheelchair users still enter through side paths or rear service routes. This can occur because of historic layouts, safeguarding requirements at children’s centres, or narrow Victorian-era entrances.

A UK-focused access review typically identifies issues such as:
• non-automated doors blocking independent entry
• steps or small level changes of 100–500 mm
• restricted turning circles in lobbies of older British buildings
• previous retrofit ramps that do not meet Part M
• uneven gradients or insufficient landing space
• lack of weather protection at entrances

In many cases, installing a compact hidden lift such as the Waterloo Lift or the People’s Lift can remove steps entirely and allow all visitors to enter through the main doorway rather than being redirected around the building.

Why User Engagement Improves UK Accessibility Projects

Engaging disabled users and sensory-needs specialists early improves technical accuracy and user experience. UK best practice often references engagement structures seen in major civic projects, where architects and access consultants gather lived feedback on:

• colour contrast and sensory triggers
• lighting levels and tactile cues
• Part M turning circles
• appropriate door automation strategies
• preferred button types or back-lighting
• noise considerations around lift operation

This approach not only improves safety but also strengthens funding applications by demonstrating user-centred design.

For deeper reference, see the Knowledge Hub’s Legacy BOM Process Improvement article, which shows how technical decisions evolve across project stages.

Selecting the Right Bespoke Hidden Lift

Different UK buildings require different engineering solutions. Below are three lift types referenced in the transcript, now presented with clearer H3 subheadings and technical context.

Waterloo Lift

A compact rising platform engineered for small rises (typically 150–500 mm).
Ideal for UK community buildings and tight heritage entrances, especially where pit depth is restricted.
It complies with BS 6440:2011 and can integrate with manual or automated upper-landing gates.

The People’s Lift

A cost-optimised hidden lift for residential homes, small community projects and UK retrofits.
Often installed where space is limited and the building cannot support deeper excavation.
Its rise capacity (typically up to 200 mm in standard installations) makes it suitable for small level adjustments at front doors or garden entrances.

Edinburgh Access Lift

Designed for heritage buildings, museums, listed properties and prestige residential spaces.
This model supports more complex rises and integrates bespoke finishes, stone cladding and architectural details to maintain the aesthetic of British period buildings.
It is frequently used when Part M compliance and conservation requirements must be met simultaneously.

Pricing, Technical Requirements & Long-Term Value

Because Sesame lifts are custom-built for each site, prices vary depending on rise height, excavation depth, automation level, bespoke finishes and compliance requirements.

Typical UK pricing ranges, for guidance:
• People’s Lift: from approx. £45,000 including builders’ works
• Waterloo Lift: mid-range depending on rise and finishes
• Premium or complex bespoke lifts: £85,000–£250,000

Key technical factors:
• pit depth (typically 1600 mm for larger models)
• platform size (to meet Part M or client-specific needs)
• barrier height (1100 mm minimum for standing users)
• BS 6440:2011 compliance
• battery backup, ARD and safety systems

Long-term value considerations include:
• lifespan exceeding 20–25 years with correct servicing
• all-inclusive service contracts that eliminate unexpected callout costs
• property value increases
• improved public footfall for community facilities

Funding Pathways for UK Accessibility Projects

Many UK councils offer grants based on:
• improved community health outcomes
• increased accessibility for residents
• safeguarding and sensory-needs support
• heritage-building conservation strategies
• disability engagement and inclusion metrics

Common sources include:
• local authority accessibility grants
• health-outcome funding streams
• community infrastructure levy (CIL) allocations
• UK charity and foundation funding

Supporting a funding application with real case studies, technical specifications, drawings and user-engagement evidence significantly increases success rates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do bespoke hidden lifts work in British heritage buildings?

Yes. Sesame lifts are often approved for Grade I, Grade II and sensitive conservation areas because they preserve original architectural features.

What UK regulations apply to platform lifts?

BS 6440:2011 and Building Regulations Part M are commonly relevant, depending on the product type and installation context.

What rise can a bespoke hidden lift achieve?

Small models typically support 150–500 mm rises; larger models can achieve significantly more depending on pit depth and structural constraints.

Do lifts require door automation?

Not always. Manual gates, spring-close upper landing doors or lock-monitored doors can all be suitable depending on rise height and safeguarding requirements.

Can hidden lifts be used in UK private homes?

Absolutely. Many clients choose them to future-proof their home without compromising aesthetics.

Book a Meeting

To discuss your project, book a Teams meeting with one of our Project Managers:
https://www.sesameaccess.com/book-a-meeting