Timeless Meets Modern: Seamless Lift Retrofit in Holland Park

In the leafy suburb of Holland Park, Brisbane, a beloved heritage-style home has been thoughtfully enhanced with the addition of a sleek glass lift — combining modern convenience with architectural sensitivity. Collaborating with the talented team at KDW Design, the owners sought to retain the charm of their home while adding discreet, practical access from the drive-in garage to the two floors above.

The design brief called for a lift that would not interrupt the home’s aesthetic but instead blend in effortlessly — as though it had always been part of the original construction. Fortunately, the layout of the home provided the perfect opportunity for retrofit. The result is an ElfoLift installation that offers seamless connectivity, understated style, and lasting value.

For this project, the builder constructed the shaft in two distinct segments: reinforced blockwork was used at the garage level to provide structural integrity and security, while the upper levels were designed with a glass and steel enclosure. This design choice not only provides structural contrast but maximises natural light and visibility, creating a visual connection between the lift and the surrounding garden and pool area.

To maintain unobstructed sight lines through the yard and to keep the cabin temperature comfortable, the lift is programmed to automatically return to the lower garage level when not in use. This thoughtful feature ensures the lift remains visually subtle and functionally efficient. Additionally, a heat exhaust fan was installed at the top of the shaft to mitigate heat buildup from the Queensland sun — a small but impactful detail that reflects Lift Shop’s commitment to long-term comfort and usability.