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For many years, there has been a growing demand for lift solutions that can be integrated into existing buildings. In private residential construction in particular, but also in public spaces, planners and operators are faced with the task of creating accessibility without having to make major changes to the building structure. Retrofittable lifts close this gap.
They enable vertical access where classic lift shafts were not planned and create new possibilities for use in existing buildings. The development of such systems is closely linked to the question of how technology, design and installation costs can be sensibly combined. The aim is to provide functional solutions that can be adapted to different types of buildings while meeting the requirements for safety, ease of use and cost-effectiveness.
The focus of modern retrofit solutions is on systems that do not require extensive construction work. The starting point was platform and stair lifts, which are mainly used indoors in private homes. In recent years, however, the focus has increasingly shifted towards vertical lifts, which can overcome greater heights and are more versatile. These vertical lifts are designed so that they can be used both indoors and outdoors. Their compact design makes them particularly suitable for situations where space is limited. At the same time, they open up new possibilities for buildings that were previously not accessible.
A key topic is the shaftless lift with limited lifting height. Such systems do not require a traditional lift shaft and still achieve lifting heights of up to three metres. This makes them suitable for use over one or two levels, for example in single-family homes, smaller multi-unit buildings or public facilities with manageable height differences. For use in publicly accessible areas, these lifts are often integrated into a protective shaft. This protects the lower part of the system, increases safety and meets additional requirements for robustness and usage protection. In private settings, the focus is more on openness and design, while in public spaces, functional aspects and compliance with standards are paramount.
A key feature of modern lift systems is their simple and intuitive operation. Similar to a classic lift, the door can be requested, opens automatically and can also be controlled manually if necessary. Depending on the structural situation, it is possible to integrate doors on different sides in order to optimally adapt access to the floor plan. Individualisation also plays an important role in the interior. Different floor coverings, such as several carpet variants, not only serve design purposes but also fulfil practical functions. They help to keep dirt and moisture out of the building interior and create a clean transition between the exterior and interior areas.
Control is via an integrated display inside the lift. This not only shows travel information, but also enables error messages to be displayed. If safety devices are triggered or malfunctions occur, the system immediately provides information about the nature of the problem. This transparency facilitates everyday use and can help to identify and rectify minor malfunctions at an early stage. In private homes in particular, this increases the feeling of safety, while in public use it supports the operational safety and availability of the system.
A key criterion for retrofittable lifts is the installation time. Skilled workers are becoming increasingly difficult to find, while at the same time systems need to be up and running quickly. Modern concepts therefore rely on a clearly structured design and prefabricated components. Such a lift can be installed within a few days. This minimises downtime and significantly reduces the burden on residents or users. Short installation times are not only a logistical advantage, but also a decisive factor in the cost-effectiveness of retrofit projects.
The strength of retrofittable lifts lies in their adaptability. Existing buildings often have individual requirements, whether due to their floor plan, use or structural limitations. Systems that are modular in design and can be adapted in terms of design offer clear advantages here. Typical features of such solutions are:
The development of retrofittable lifts is not complete. In future, greater lifting heights, further reduced installation times and additional design options will enable even greater adaptation to existing buildings. At the same time, there is a growing demand to combine technical innovations with clear functionality. Retrofittable lifts are therefore a central component of modern building use. They combine accessibility, technology and design to create solutions that are geared towards real requirements and enhance existing buildings in the long term.
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