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Lifts are still considered a planning challenge in many buildings, especially when space is limited or the existing structure allows for little intervention. It is precisely in such situations that specialised solutions become increasingly important. Platform and vertical lifts are designed to enable mobility even where classic lift systems reach their limits. They are aimed at private and public building owners who need to combine accessibility, safety and everyday usability.
The market for such systems is characterised by individual requirements. Different buildings, types of use and legal frameworks require flexible concepts that can be adapted. In this environment, suppliers have established themselves who deliberately focus on difficult installation situations, thus closing the gap between standard solutions and custom-made products.
Existing buildings are a key area of application for platform and vertical lifts. These buildings often lack shafts, sufficient floor space or static reserves for conventional lifts. At the same time, there is a growing need to retrofit buildings to make them barrier-free. This is exactly where systems that are narrow, modular in design and can be flexibly adapted to staircases, wall lines or narrow floor plans come into play. This specialisation does not mean that new buildings are excluded. Platform and vertical lifts are also used there, for example when architectural concepts deliberately focus on openness and transparency or when space needs to be used efficiently. The decisive factor is not so much the age of a building as the question of how a lift can be integrated without changing the character of the architecture.
Platform lifts are particularly in demand where short height differences need to be overcome or staircases are the main focus. They enable the transport of wheelchair users as well as walking users and can often be adapted directly to existing staircases. Vertical lifts, on the other hand, are designed for purely vertical transport and do not require classic lift shafts. Vertical lifts are particularly interesting for confined spaces, as they require little depth and can also be installed in narrow areas. Platform and vertical lifts thus complement each other functionally and cover different requirements within the same building.
A key feature of modern systems is their compact design. When folded, platform lifts reduce the distance to the wall to a minimum. This creates space in stairwells and increases everyday usability, especially in public buildings with high foot traffic. Another advantage is the standardisation of central components. A single unit can be used for different designs, regardless of whether a straight or curved path is required. This not only simplifies planning, but also facilitates maintenance and spare parts supply. For customers and sales partners, this means greater clarity and less complexity in the course of the project.
In addition to the mechanical design, the power supply plays a decisive role. Battery-powered systems enable reliable operation even in the event of power failures and reduce installation costs, as no complex electrical connections are required. Long-life batteries help to extend maintenance intervals and keep operating costs low. Operation is deliberately kept simple. Hand-held transmitters, clearly structured controls and intuitive controls ensure that even inexperienced users can use the lifts safely. This is an important factor, especially in public areas, where different groups of people rely on the technology. Typical features of modern platform and vertical lifts are:
Additional requirements play a role in public spaces. Protection against vandalism is just as important here as robust design of the operating elements. Recessed buttons and protected controls prevent damage and ensure that the systems function reliably even with intensive use. These protection concepts are designed not only for safety, but also for acceptance. The simpler and clearer a system is to operate, the lower the inhibition threshold for users who are unfamiliar with the technology. Platform and vertical lifts must therefore not only function technically, but also prove themselves in everyday use.
As an Austrian manufacturer with decades of experience, Ganser Liftsysteme focused early on difficult installation situations. Platform lifts and vertical lifts form a central part of the portfolio. The company's continuous presence at trade fairs such as interlift shows how important direct exchange with planners, partners and operators is for the further development of the systems. Ganser Liftsysteme combines many years of production experience with a clear focus on quality and durability. The selection of qualified suppliers and consistent material testing ensure that the products are designed for a long service life. For customers, this means investment security, especially in a market segment where individual solutions are in demand.
The demand for barrier-free solutions will continue to rise, not least due to demographic developments and legal requirements. Platform and vertical lifts offer a response to these requirements without forcing blanket solutions. They adapt to the structural reality and enable mobility where it was long considered virtually impossible. The added value of such systems is particularly evident in difficult installation situations. They combine technology, everyday practicality and understated design. This makes platform and vertical lifts an integral part of modern building design – not as an exception, but as a pragmatic solution to real challenges.
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