Discreet Elegance: Seamless ElfoLift Retrofit in a Cherished Family Home

Some of the most rewarding residential projects aren’t those that shout for attention, but those that whisper sophistication through subtlety. This two-level ElfoLift retrofit is a testament to refined design, technical expertise, and thoughtful integration. Nestled within a much-loved family home, the new lift was introduced with such precision that it appears to have always been part of the original architecture.

Client Vision: Function Without Compromise

The homeowners, long settled in their multi-level property, sought a way to improve accessibility without disturbing the layout, style, or emotional connection they had built with their home over the years. Like many homeowners in similar situations, they wanted enhanced functionality—for ease of daily movement, aging-in-place planning, and guest convenience—but weren’t willing to compromise the home’s warmth or aesthetic cohesion.

They turned to Lift Shop because of our strong reputation for design-aligned residential lift elevator solutions, especially in retrofit and renovation settings. Our expertise in customised lift design allowed us to work seamlessly with the builder and homeowners to deliver a completely integrated result—both technically and visually.

Technical Challenges of a Retrofit

Unlike new builds, where space for a lift can be planned from the outset, retrofitting a lift into an existing structure requires a detailed approach:

• Space planning: Identifying and adapting existing cavities, walls, or voids for shaft construction—without compromising existing features or structural integrity.
• Minimal disruption: Coordinating installation around the daily life of a family, aiming for reduced dust, noise, and downtime.
• Finish matching: Creating continuity between new lift elements and the home’s existing cabinetry, flooring, and paintwork.
• Access and safety: Ensuring the new lift met modern compliance and safety standards without invasive modifications.

The ElfoLift was the ideal choice for this project—a compact, reliable, and beautifully finished electric lift system. It’s especially suited to retrofits thanks to its minimal pit and headroom requirements, as well as flexible shaft and door configurations. To explore more about how this model fits tight spaces, visit our E Series electric lift page.

Design & Aesthetic Integration

Design harmony was critical. The cabin was finished with Similinox F12PPS skinplate wall panels, chosen for their subtle sheen, easy maintenance, and ability to blend into both modern and traditional interiors. The clean lines and neutral tones added polish without drawing attention—exactly what this discreet install required.

Brushed stainless steel profiles framed the edges, offering a refined metallic contrast. But the real sense of space came from the half-height mirrors installed on all three walls—a clever choice that visually enlarged the compact lift cabin while echoing the home’s light-filled design philosophy.

To maintain a bright and welcoming interior, the ceiling was finished in white and fitted with crisp white LED downlights, ensuring visibility and ambiance, day or night.

Premium Details Underfoot and Beyond

Flooring was another consideration. Rather than opting for an after-market solution, the owners chose a factory-supplied, one-piece manufactured stone floor in a neutral tone that complemented the broader interior design. This eliminated the need for post-install tiling—reducing delays, mess, and complexity—while offering a beautiful, seamless surface built to last.

At the landings, attention to detail continued. Solid steel landing doors were expertly clad in timber panelled sheets, custom-matched to the surrounding joinery. This integration allowed the lift entrances to visually disappear into the cabinetry and wall finishes of the home. Bespoke handles were added to complete the illusion—a touch that blurred the line between functional access and crafted interior design.