Blending Accessibility with Historic Architecture
One of the recurring challenges in heritage and estate buildings is how to deliver step-free, wheelchair-friendly access without compromising the aesthetics of historic gardens and façades. At Sesame Access, we specialise in solving these highly technical and sensitive design challenges.
In this case, the project team explored how a Sesame hidden lift could integrate within a landscaped garden, balancing accessibility requirements with planning restrictions, drainage considerations, and conservation sensitivities.
Technical Challenges We Addressed
Pit Depth and Water Table
Historic gardens close to rivers often present high water tables. Our engineering team provided worst-case pit depth requirements and multiple design options, from 200mm shallow pits to deeper rising-barrier lifts, ensuring flexibility depending on ground conditions.
Drainage and Moat Structures
The garden featured an existing drainage moat around the basement. Sesame engineers assessed pit positioning, tolerance allowances, and waterproofing interfaces to avoid impacting structural drainage, while still allowing safe installation of the lift.
Aesthetics and Planning Sensitivity
Maintaining the character of the garden was paramount. By using our tow-guard system for rises under one metre, visual barriers were minimised. For higher rises, glazed or solid panel barriers can be specified to preserve sightlines while remaining compliant with British Standards.
Integration with Landscaping
Sesame lifts can be clad in matching stone or paving, making them virtually invisible when not in use. Our team supplied detailed cut lists and adhesive specifications so that stone masons could seamlessly integrate the lift with surrounding landscaping.
Why Sesame?
- Proven in heritage settings – Our lifts are trusted in Grade I and II listed buildings across the UK.
- Flexible pit options – From 200mm shallow pits to deeper rising-barrier designs, tailored to water table and structural conditions.
- Safe and compliant – Every lift discussed in this enquiry complies with BS 6440:2011 standards, with safeguards such as tow guards, rising solid panel barriers, and removable hand posts.
- Collaborative approach – We provide site-specific drawings, technical support for planning applications, and coordination with architects, structural engineers, and landscaping teams.
Q&A
Q: Can Sesame lifts work in gardens with high water tables?
A: Yes. We offer both shallow-pit such as the Thames Retracting Stair Lift and deeper-pit solutions, with waterproofing strategies designed in collaboration with structural engineers.
Q: How are lifts hidden within historic settings?
A: Lifts are clad in matching stone or paving, and when retracted, the staircase or platform blends perfectly into its surroundings.
Q: What safety features are included?
A: Depending on the rise, lifts include tow guards, rising solid panel barriers as seen here in the Westminster Lift, and optional removable hand posts. Controlled operation ensures safe use in managed environments.
Q: Can the lifts be integrated into planning applications?
A: Yes. Sesame provides site-specific drawings suitable for planning and listed building consent submissions.
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