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 how important 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. Once a lift travel rise exceeds one metre, regulations may require full enclosures or safety barriers. This affects the type of lift selected, the pit depth available and the structural design around the staircase.
Exploring Sesame Solutions
Our team reviewed several options to ensure the project remained flexible while offering elegant accessibility. The lifts discussed included:
Buckingham Lift
https://www.sesameaccess.com/lifts/buckingham-lift
A vertical retracting stair solution suitable for locations with space beneath the stairs to allow deeper pit installation.
Mayfair Lift
https://www.sesameaccess.com/lifts/mayfair-lift
A horizontal retracting stair design that requires a shallower pit, ideal for projects with tighter structural limits.
Westminster Lift
https://www.sesameaccess.com/lifts/westminster-lift
A fully enclosed platform lift suitable for rises above one metre, providing the highest level of safety compliance.
By presenting multiple pathways, Sesame helps architects and contractors align the right lift with both technical constraints and project budgets.
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 whether the total rise can be adjusted to stay within a specific threshold may determine which lift model is feasible. This ensures contractors have the right knowledge before presenting solutions to clients or architects.
Beyond the Numbers
Although budgets form part of every discussion, our focus is long term value. The use of Buckingham, Mayfair and Westminster lifts shows how Sesame provides aesthetic quality, accessibility and compliance, embedding inclusivity into the design from the outset.
Q&A
Q: Can Sesame lifts be used in new builds as well as refurbishments
A: Yes. Sesame lifts are installed worldwide in both new and existing buildings, adapted to local spaces and applicable standards.
Q: How does Sesame ensure compliance with different international standards
A: The engineering team reviews local regulations alongside UK and European requirements and works directly with architects and contractors to identify any adaptations needed.
Q: What makes Sesame lifts unique
A: Their hidden design, seamless staircase integration and the combination of safety and aesthetics distinguish them from conventional platform lifts.