Lifts for Architects & Specifiers: Designing Vertical Access Without Slowing Your Project
Designing in a lift should support the building, not complicate it. For architects, lifts sit at the intersection of access strategy, structure, finishes and programme risk. When they’re considered early, they integrate cleanly into layouts and coordination models. When they’re left late, they often trigger redesign, tolerance clashes and avoidable delays.
This guide sets out practical considerations for specifying lifts in both commercial and residential schemes, from early feasibility through to detailing and coordination.
Why lifts need early consideration in architectural design
Unlike many building elements, lifts affect multiple disciplines at once. They influence:
- circulation routes and accessibility strategy
- structural openings and load paths
- floor build-ups and threshold detailing
- mechanical and electrical coordination
- fire strategy and escape assumptions
Because of this, lifts rarely “slot in” easily once layouts are fixed. Bringing them into the design process early helps avoid common issues such as mis-sized openings, landing conflicts or late service clashes.
Choosing the right lift type for the project
The starting point is usually understanding the building’s access requirements and spatial constraints.
Platform lifts for commercial and public buildings
Platform lifts are often specified where inclusive access is required in buildings with constrained footprints or retrofit conditions. They can provide a practical solution where installing a full passenger lift is not feasible due to structure, cost or space limitations.
They are commonly used in:
- refurbishments and listed buildings
- small commercial premises
- multi-level retail or hospitality environments
- schools, healthcare settings and public facilities
Glass and design-led lifts in architectural spaces
In public-facing environments such as atriums, lobbies and galleries, lifts can become part of the architectural language rather than purely functional equipment.
Glass and design-led lifts are typically specified where:
- visual openness is important
- sightlines and natural light need to be preserved
- the lift is intended as a visible design feature
In these cases, finish coordination, glazing specification and interface detailing often matter as much as structural feasibility.
Domestic lifts in high-end residential design
In larger homes or multi-storey developments, domestic lifts are increasingly integrated as part of long-term accessibility and future-proofing strategies.
From an architectural standpoint, these lifts are often chosen because they:
- require smaller footprints than commercial passenger lifts
- can operate without a traditional shaft in some configurations
- integrate more easily into internal layouts
They are particularly common in:
- high-end residential schemes
- refurbishment of period properties
- multi-storey private homes
Specifying lifts: what architects need to define early
One of the most common causes of redesign is insufficient definition at specification stage. Early clarity around a few key elements can prevent coordination problems later.
Structure and openings
Openings should be dimensioned to finished surfaces, not structural elements alone. This avoids mismatches once floor build-ups and wall finishes are installed.
Threshold and landing design
Level changes, recesses or ramp strategies should be confirmed early to ensure safe access and avoid trip risks at handover.
Door positioning and circulation
Lift doors must be coordinated with circulation routes, adjacent door swings and queuing space, particularly in high-traffic environments.
Maintenance access and services
Allowing adequate space for servicing, isolators and equipment access is essential. These requirements are often overlooked during early planning stages.
Coordination challenges: why CAD and BIM matter
Because lifts sit between multiple disciplines, digital coordination tools play a crucial role in avoiding conflicts.
CAD in early-stage planning
CAD drawings are often used for feasibility studies, allowing architects to test layouts, landing relationships and builder’s work requirements before the design is fixed.
BIM in coordinated design
Bringing lift geometry into a BIM model early helps coordinate interfaces with structure and MEP systems. This reduces late-stage clashes such as:
- openings not aligning with finished floor levels
- service routes conflicting with lift equipment zones
- door locations clashing with circulation patterns
Inclusive design and regulatory considerations
Where lifts support inclusive access, design intent needs to extend beyond the footprint itself. Good practice typically considers the full user journey:
- safe approach routes without pinch points
- clear landing space and door access
- control positioning within accessible reach ranges
- coordinated circulation and escape assumptions
In the UK, this is often aligned with broader accessibility guidance such as Building Regulations Part M and related design standards.
Working in heritage and high-end residential projects
Lifts in heritage and premium residential environments require particularly careful planning due to existing building constraints.
Common challenges include:
- uneven floors and structural tolerances
- limited access routes for installation
- sensitive finishes requiring protection
- coordination with fire strategy requirements
In these settings, sequencing and early feasibility assessment are often as important as the lift specification itself.
The most common issues that cause redesign
Across many projects, the same problems tend to appear repeatedly:
- openings sized to structure rather than finished surfaces
- insufficient landing clearance for circulation
- unplanned threshold level changes
- service coordination conflicts
- missing maintenance access allowances
Addressing these points early significantly reduces programme risk.
A practical approach for architects
A straightforward process typically works best:
- Identify the access strategy early
- Confirm lift type feasibility at the concept stage
- Define openings and interfaces clearly
- Coordinate with structure and MEP using digital models
- Protect finish intent through early specification decisions
Planning a project that needs a lift?
For architects, lifts are rarely just a technical package. They are part of the building’s access strategy, structural coordination and user experience. When considered early and detailed clearly, they integrate smoothly into both commercial and residential projects.
The key is not simply choosing a lift, but ensuring it works within the broader architectural intent functionally, visually and practically.
If you’re working on a scheme and need clarity on what’s feasible, it often helps to review lift options early before layouts, openings and coordination details are fixed.
Contact our specialist team today to discuss your project, share drawings, or request an initial feasibility review. We can help you understand suitable lift types, space requirements and key coordination considerations at an early stage.