Industrial Heritage Meets Bespoke Lift Design in Collingwood Conversion

Situated in the heart of Melbourne’s vibrant and artistic Collingwood precinct, this multi-level residence embodies the perfect marriage between historical industrial architecture and contemporary luxury living. The building, once a sawtooth-roof factory, has been lovingly transformed into a modern home that celebrates its industrial roots while embracing sophisticated design elements. In this unique setting, Lift Shop was engaged to design and install a custom three-stop E1 residential lift elevator that would enhance accessibility, seamlessly integrate with the architectural style, and elevate the overall living experience.

Client Background and Project Context

The homeowner, a passionate advocate for preserving heritage with a modern twist, wanted a lift solution that would not only serve practical needs but also complement the raw, unfinished aesthetic of the former industrial site. The property spans three floors and features exposed brick walls, timber floors, and steel structural elements that highlight its factory origins. The challenge was to create a lift that offered smooth, reliable vertical transport while enhancing the home’s personality and preserving its artistic integrity.

As a luxury lift provider with deep experience in both new builds and conversions, Lift Shop was well-positioned to deliver a bespoke solution tailored to these unique requirements. Our team collaborated closely with the client, architects, and builders to ensure that the lift would be a standout feature, marrying technology and design.

Architectural and Technical Challenges

Converting a former industrial space into a residential home often involves a series of design and regulatory hurdles. In this case, the installation of a residential lift elevator had to navigate several constraints:

• Preservation of Structural Integrity: The existing building structure had to remain intact, with minimal disruption to original brickwork, steel beams, and timber elements.
• Spatial Constraints: Fitting a compact yet spacious lift shaft into an existing floorplan required precise measurements and engineering, balancing functionality and aesthetics.
• Compliance with Safety Standards: The lift needed to meet stringent Australian regulations around residential lifts, including emergency systems, door safety, and accessibility features.
• Visual Integration: Ensuring the lift complemented rather than clashed with the industrial design language was critical to maintaining the home’s character.

The Bespoke E1 Residential Lift Solution

After extensive consultation, the client chose the E Series electric lift, known for its quiet operation, smooth ride, and customisable finishes. The E1 model was selected for its ideal balance between compact footprint and spacious cabin, perfectly suited to retrofit projects without compromising on passenger comfort.

A key highlight of this installation is the glass rear cabin wall, which was designed to showcase the lift’s running gear and drive mechanisms. This innovative feature brings transparency and industrial authenticity into the cabin, celebrating the building’s factory origins rather than concealing them. It creates a visual dialogue between old and new — where modern engineering complements heritage aesthetics.

The cabin walls on both sides were clad in Skinplate F12PPS Similinox, a premium brushed metallic finish offering durability and a tactile industrial feel that balances softness with strength. The profiles and handrails were finished in polished stainless steel, adding subtle luxury and clean lines that elevate the overall look.

Measuring 1100mm by 1400mm, the cabin provides ample space for passengers and everyday items, ensuring comfort during travel across the three floors. The lift travels a total vertical distance of 6730mm with a smooth, reliable electric drive system that maximises energy efficiency and reduces noise, important in a residential setting.

Safety and Performance Features

Lift Shop’s commitment to quality is evident in the safety and operational features integrated into this project. The E1 lift includes full-height infra-red safety curtains to protect passengers from door entrapment, soft nylon rollers and sliders for smooth door movement, and emergency lowering capabilities to ensure safe operation even during power outages. Dual safety circuits and a battery backup system provide additional peace of mind, adhering to the highest Australian standards.

Artistic Expression: The Lift Shaft as a Design Statement

One of the most remarkable aspects of this installation is the treatment of the lift shaft exterior. Rather than opting for a conventional finish, the homeowner chose to use the shaft as a canvas for their own artwork. This bold move transformed the lift from a functional necessity into a vibrant architectural feature that commands attention and sparks conversation.

The artwork draws inspiration from the industrial history of Collingwood, with dynamic shapes and colours that reference exposed steel beams and structural forms found throughout the property. This creative choice not only personalises the installation but reinforces the home’s identity, making the lift shaft a signature piece of the overall design.