Penthouse Elevator

Private Residency

Location: San Diego, California

Submitted by: Farid Waleh

Project Description

A San Diego, California, penthouse owner wanted a residential elevator that not only was a reliable form of transportation, but also a showcase at which guests could marvel. The design is round with a curved single slide. The unit had to fit where there was a large structural concrete column in one corner. The top of the car had to be light and did not allow for the door operator to be on top of the car. The solution was to use an under-the-platform door operator. 

The lift system is an overhead drum machine above the ceiling. The only things visible are two ropes that move the car up and down through slots in the ceiling. The drums were custom made and are separated to pick up the car from the extreme corners of the platform, as this car does not have a normal frame. The frame is built into the car itself and, therefore, not visible.

Elevator Specifications

• Type of elevator: Residential 
• Type of lift system: Overhead drum type machine
• Controller: Microprocessor
• Capacity: 900 lbs.
• Travel: 12 ft. (approximately)
• Doors: Power single-slide hall and car
• Door operator: Galaxy under-the-platform door operator
• Shaft material: Glass and stainless steel
• Flooring: Glass and stainless steel
• Bottom shrouding: Stainless steel and glass

Credits

Elevator Provider: Custom Cabs Inc.

General Contractor: Sweig General Contractors

Architect: Mark Mitchell Architects

Drum Machine and Controller Provider: Elevator Concepts