Accessible Freefalling

Savaria installs VPL in Canada’s first re-circulating indoor freefall simulator.

SkyVenture in Laval, Canada, is an accessible re-circulating indoor freefall simulator. The facility is part of Quebec’s “Accessible Road,” a listing of tourist destinations that meet the province’s barrier-free standards. With a mandate of creating a space that has major civic importance, the 13,000-sq.-ft. building is impressive with its non-conventional form. The building’s design, courtesy of architect James Lalonde’s vision, demanded an accessibility lift in line with the edifice’s use of glass and steel.

The architectural firm contracted Savaria Corp. to install the elevator company’s V-1504 vertical platform lift (VPL). The unit features aluminum doors with tempered glass inserts and custom metallic powder-coat paint. Traveling 204 in., the unit provides service for the 45-ft. vertical wind tunnel through a custom glass hoistway.