80 ACCESSIBILITY & LIFTS
Inside an office building, physical barriers like steps and differences in level can be overcome with a variety of different types of platform lifts – without affecting the integrity of the building
with existing steps by using the same material for the tread and handrails. Inside an office building, physical barriers such as steps and difference in level can be overcome with a variety of different types of platform lifts – without affecting the integrity of the building. There is also a huge range of materials available that can blend in with both modern and traditional interiors, making it easier to integrate a platform lift to create an inclusive environment. When it comes to a complete office fit-out, there are a large number of possibilities and the results can be highly impressive. ThirdWay Interiors appointed the Platform Lift Company to come up with an unobtrusive design solution that would fit in with the modern office interior, and mirror the sophisticated upmarket appearance of Wharf Studios commercial units in London. The scissor lifts – featuring a black and stainless steel finish with glass panels – have remained in keeping with the balustrading at the entrance of the office building. Equally, the platform lifts finished in black with stainless steel match the ultra-modern interior design of the office units, and the glass shafts create a seamless finish. The self-contained office units are now complete and boast modern,
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industrial-style working spaces which are DDA compliant. We also worked with ThirdWay Interiors to provide a bespoke access solution that would blend in with the appearance of Schueco London’s new multi-purpose premises including offices, meeting rooms, conference facilities and a showroom. With a multitude of functions being spread out over the different levels, a universal design was required to create an accessible environment. The chosen design needed to reflect the quality of the brand. It was important that the materials used for the platform lift matched the monochromatic colour palette, which had been selected as a simple backdrop to showcase Schueco’s own products. Using a black finish with a silver trim for the platform lift and creating two metre high steel shaft panels, for a seamless effect, achieved this goal. “The new lift has perfectly fitted within the sleek monochrome look of the showroom. The matt black finish allows it to blend into its environment and the glass fronted entrance looks clean and modern – a great match for this scheme,” concludes Martyna Skoczek, technical design manager of ThirdWay Interiors.
Bespoke installations offer complete design flexibility and provide an opportunity for companies to personalise platform lifts with brand colours and integrate them with an existing or new office interior. While this may be easier in a new build or modern building, giving careful consideration to the right design will allow the clean lines of a modern platform lift to blend sympathetically into a historic building. In this way, creating access to overcome architectural barriers within an older style building without disturbing the fabric, integrity or aesthetic appeal of that building should be totally achievable.
Sean O’Sullivan is managing director of The Platform Lift Company
ADF DECEMBER 2019
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