Seamless Retrofit: E1 Lift with Glass Shaft in Dover Heights

Adding a residential lift to an existing home can be a complex task, especially when balancing functionality, design aesthetics, and site constraints. This elegant Dover Heights property is a perfect example of how Lift Shop expertly navigates these challenges, delivering a retrofit solution that enhances accessibility without compromising the home’s stunning architecture or breathtaking Sydney Harbour views. The homeowners sought a vertical transport system that would feel like a natural part of the home — blending luxury, practicality, and seamless integration. The result was the installation of a bespoke E1 lift fitted within a striking glass shaft positioned to the side of the house, creating a seamless addition that elevates both lifestyle and property value.

Client Background and Project Context

Dover Heights, renowned for its spectacular coastal vistas and premium residences, often presents unique design challenges for homeowners seeking to upgrade their properties with modern amenities. The owners of this home were looking to retrofit a lift that would improve daily accessibility across multiple levels, particularly as they anticipated long-term use of the home with ease of movement as a priority. At the same time, they wanted the lift to serve as more than just a utility—it needed to harmonise with the home’s architectural style, preserve the panoramic harbour views, and reflect their refined taste in luxury finishes.

Retrofitting a lift into an existing structure requires careful planning to respect the building’s footprint and flow. The site constraints meant that the lift needed to be compact enough to fit comfortably without major structural alterations, while also offering spacious and comfortable access for users. The owners’ preference for transparency and light guided the choice of a glass shaft, which amplifies natural light and creates a visually light, modern aesthetic.

Challenges Faced During Design and Installation

Retrofitting in a premium location like Dover Heights comes with a distinct set of technical, architectural, and regulatory challenges:

• Space Constraints: The existing layout required the lift to fit within a tight footprint while maintaining a generous cabin size for comfort and accessibility. Achieving this meant precise engineering to maximise cabin dimensions without sacrificing structural integrity or space in other parts of the home.
• Structural Integration: Adding a lift shaft and cabin to the side of an existing home required coordination with builders and structural engineers to ensure the glass shaft was safely anchored and that the building’s foundations could support the additional load.
• Permitting and Compliance: Working within local council regulations and building codes for residential lifts, especially when installing a glass shaft, necessitated detailed documentation and approvals. Fire safety, emergency access, and electrical compliance were carefully managed throughout.
• Visual Impact: Maintaining unobstructed harbour views was a critical consideration, so the lift shaft design had to be as transparent and minimal as possible without compromising privacy or safety.

The Bespoke Lift Solution

Lift Shop’s solution was to install the E1 lift with a sleek, modern glass shaft — a configuration that balances practicality with high-end design. The landing doors were finished in polished RAL 9010, a crisp, elegant white tone that complements the home’s contemporary colour scheme. These doors feature transparent glass panels, which create a seamless connection between the lift and the surrounding architecture, making the lift entrance feel integrated and inviting rather than an intrusive afterthought.

Inside the cabin, the design reflects a carefully curated blend of materials chosen for both aesthetics and durability. One wall is fitted with RHS transparent glass, enhancing the sense of openness and allowing passengers to enjoy expansive views during travel. The opposite side wall is clad in Inox Rino Rosso, a warm, textured stainless steel variant that adds a tactile and visual richness to the cabin. This contrast between glass and metal not only elevates the interior design but also underscores the home’s sophisticated character.

All structural profiles and the car operating panel (COP) were finished in brushed stainless steel. This finish offers robustness to withstand frequent use while maintaining an industrial-chic look that matches the other high-end fittings throughout the home. The floor’s finish, in Stone Smoked Pearl, brings a soft, natural texture to the cabin, complementing both the glass and metal elements and grounding the design in understated luxury.

The lift cabin measures a comfortable 1200mm by 1170mm, delivering spacious access that accommodates all users, including those requiring mobility aids. Despite this generous size, the compact design ensures it fits unobtrusively within the home’s layout. The lift travels a total distance of 5569mm, efficiently connecting three levels and enabling smooth, reliable movement without compromising ride comfort.