
At first glance, you’d be forgiven for thinking the lift was part of the original blueprint. But look closer, and you’ll discover a brilliantly executed retrofit—an E1 lift with full glass shaft, seamlessly added to a pre-existing home on Queensland’s picturesque Sunshine Coast.
This wasn’t a straightforward drop-in solution. The residence, already defined by its unique contours and elevated design, required a lift that could respond to its complex geometry—without compromising style, structure, or exposure to the elements. Lift Shop worked closely with the owners and their builders to ensure the shaft and lift configuration fit within the home’s architectural logic, following its angles and aligning discreetly with verandah lines.
Positioned cleverly beneath the home’s overhanging rooflines, the shaft is naturally shielded from harsh sunlight and driving rain—adding to both its longevity and year-round usability. This thoughtful placement reduces the visual impact of the addition while enhancing weather resilience, proving that smart design can elevate both form and function.
The shaft itself is almost entirely transparent, constructed from high-grade glass to allow natural light to filter through and provide panoramic views while travelling between levels. It also ensures the lift doesn’t feel like an imposition on the home’s facade—rather, it disappears into the existing aesthetic. Whether viewed from the garden or the verandah, the lift blends in quietly, reflecting the surrounding trees, sky, and structure.
For the homeowners, the benefits have been immediate. What was once a multi-level climb is now a smooth, convenient glide from floor to floor. But more than that, the installation has added significant property value and a future-proof layer of lifestyle comfort—all without compromising the home’s charm or coastal character.
This project exemplifies Lift Shop’s ability to retrofit luxury lifts into established homes with precision and empathy for the existing architecture. Every retrofit presents its own set of challenges, but with the right planning, product, and design approach, the outcome is indistinguishable from an original feature.
Interested in enhancing your home with seamless vertical access? Compare your options with our residential lifts or explore more retrofit success stories via our case studies.

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