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In the world of access, there are a few common things we are all aware of.
We know that all new buildings need to comply with the National Construction Code (NCC) and the Australian Standards (AS 1428.1, 2009), which require a continuous accessible path of travel to be provided to and within a building. As the NCC and AS outline, this can be achieved by providing a level step-free threshold transition (the preferred method), a compliant walkway, step ramp or 1 in 14 ramped accessway, or alternatively, by the use of a low rise platform lift to provide access into the building.
But, what do we do when we are presented with a different type of entry point challenge? What solution can we apply to an existing building that, due to building constraints, does not allow for a ramp or platform lift to be provided at the principal pedestrian entry point of the building? Or when we encounter a building that is heritage registered?
Presenting the Sesame lift!
This is the lift you use when you cannot have one that provides wheelchair access into the building via a lift or a ramp.
Designed to blend into a building's architecture, the Sesame lift is invisible and features a superimposed staircase. When access is required, the user pushes a button, allowing the steps to retract back into the staircase, revealing a vertical platform lift to facilitate compliant access.
Invented in the United Kingdom, the first Sesame lift was installed in 1997 at Merchant Taylors Hall in London, and is still operational today. To date, the Sesame lift has been installed globally in over 200 buildings that boast significant heritage value, such as Westminster and Oxford University (UK) Sotheby’s Auction House (France), Seattle Space Needle (USA), and our very own iconic Sydney Opera House, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is possible to install the Sesame lift at the principal entry point of heritage listed buildings that currently only allow for stair access. Sesame Access System, the company behind the lift system, currently have three lift types that may be installed for listed buildings depending on the building constraints, including:
Short rise retracting stair lift
Horizontal retracting stair lift rise greater than 1000mm
Vertically retracting wheelchair lift
Each Sesame lift is specially fitted to ensure it blends seamlessly into the required space and keeps with each building's architectural facade elements. Care is taken to make sure the existing stairs transition into the new stair lift, maintaining the look and feel of each building down to the last detail.
Whether the Sesame lift needs to fit a straight stair or curved stair flight, the engineering and design is versatile enough to suit any building, facade or entrance.
For designers and builders looking for solutions to tricky heritage listed building challenges, the Sesame lift could be the solution you are looking for to ensure compliant equitable access is provided to and within an existing heritage building.
Talk to us to learn more about innovative accessibility solutions and how they can apply to your next project.
Have a project or design that needs an expert accessibility consultant? The team at MGAC are ready to hear from you.
Our skilled consultants are specialists in the application of DDA, UD, Accessibility, and Human Movement related to Australian Standards, NCC and Safety in Design.
Fill out the contact form and one of our access consultants will be in contact within 48 hours. Alternatively, you can contact one of our offices directly.
