For the renovation of this character-filled residence overlooking Manly Cove, the brief wasn’t just to install a lift — it was to make a statement. This wasn’t about functionality alone. The homeowners, with a distinct vision for each level of the property, saw the lift as an artistic and architectural centrepiece, integrating both style and substance across all three floors.
At the heart of this build was one essential challenge: preserving the integrity of the older structure while delivering cutting-edge access. To meet this, Lift Shop specified a “bones only” shaft design using galvanized steel — a solution tailored for renovations where minimal additional load on the structure is critical. Compared to traditional blockwork, this shaft system offered a lighter, more flexible alternative with a significantly smaller footprint, making it ideal for tight or unconventional spaces.
The lift’s cabin design took a bold departure from convention. Rather than concealing the mechanical core, the design leaned into it — embracing a raw, industrial aesthetic. The galvanized steel used throughout the shaft was mirrored in the cabin construction itself, enhancing the cohesive look and lending the interior a distinctive texture. The result? A deliberate contrast to the polished lines elsewhere in the home — rustic, tactile, and unashamedly honest.
To further amplify this visual character, two walls of the cabin were fitted with mirrors, creating a dynamic interplay of light and space. The third wall featured clear glass, offering a direct view of the exposed internal shaft brickwork. This design choice made the ride itself a visually immersive experience — not just a transition between levels, but a journey through texture, history, and craftsmanship.
Space was at a premium, yet the solution delivered maximum impact with minimum intrusion. With internal dimensions of just 770mm wide by 820mm deep, this compact cabin was precisely engineered to fit within the constraints of the building — without compromising performance. Despite its modest footprint, the lift comfortably supports a 300kg load, making it ideal for regular household use.
Every detail was considered. The control buttons were subtly integrated into the corner profiles, maintaining the minimalist, architectural integrity of the cabin. The floor, crafted from timber to match the home’s existing surfaces, reinforces the idea that the lift isn’t an add-on — it’s an extension of the home’s design language.
Where this project truly breaks from tradition is in the creative use of landing door finishes. Rather than adopting a uniform appearance, each level was individually styled to reflect its context:
This level of customisation is rare — and it highlights a broader truth: a lift doesn’t have to be hidden. When done right, it becomes part of the design vocabulary, an expressive feature that elevates more than just people.
At Lift Shop, we believe every lift should do more than move you. It should reflect your space, your taste, and your values. That’s why our team works closely with homeowners, architects, and builders to deliver lifts that not only function flawlessly, but fit seamlessly into the life and story of the home itself.
From compact solutions like our A Series for narrow homes to sleek, speed-driven electric models like the E Series, each installation is bespoke — tailored to meet the physical space and the emotional intent of the design.
This Manly Cove renovation isn’t just a technical win. It’s a creative expression. It showcases how a home lift, when thoughtfully designed and precisely executed, can become a signature element — enriching daily life while enhancing long-term value.
Whether you’re restoring a heritage home, building new, or simply want smarter access without compromising style, Lift Shop offers a range of solutions that blend beauty, performance, and intelligent engineering.
And if you’re wondering how much a home lift costs, we’ve laid it out transparently — with no hidden extras and a clear path from design to install.
Because in the end, boring is still boring. And your home deserves better than that.
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