Custom Residential Elevator, Beverly, MA

Project Description

The project involved the installation of a custom residential elevator, designed to enhance accessibility and convenience within a multi-level home. The new elevator was seamlessly integrated into the existing structure, transforming the layout without disrupting the aesthetic harmony of the residence. Special attention was given to making the elevator look as though it had always been part of the home, with a focus on ensuring that the finishes matched the home’s original design.

Our work included constructing the elevator shaft, handling the structural modifications needed to accommodate the new elevator, and completing the interior finishes to make the installation look as if it had always been part of the home. The project also involved careful coordination with specialized contractors to install the elevator system itself. The final result is a functional, elegant addition that enhances the home’s accessibility while preserving its sophisticated design.

Challenges

A major challenge in this project was the removal of the existing dumbwaiter, which required extensive demolition and structural adjustments to create the necessary space for the new elevator shaft. The dumbwaiter’s original space was smaller and not designed for a full-sized elevator, so careful planning was needed to ensure the new shaft fit seamlessly into the home without disrupting the overall design.

Additionally, the home’s walls featured a metal mesh plaster system, and the foundation included 12 inches of concrete, both of which posed significant challenges. These factors made the demolition phase last longer than initially expected. The removal of the metal mesh plaster and the thick concrete foundation added complexity to the project, requiring extra time and precision to ensure the new shaft was properly integrated into the existing structure.