Lift for a new-build development: what to include in the project before construction starts
A lift for a new-build development should be planned at the design stage so that the shaft dimensions, pit depth, top-floor headroom, equipment and service access can be defined correctly.
Why a lift should be planned in advance
A lift in a new-build development is not an element that can be added later without consequences. It affects the architecture, structural design, engineering systems, resident circulation and future servicing. If the solution is not agreed before construction begins, the developer may face shaft alterations, restrictions on lift cabin dimensions and configuration, more complex installation or compromises during operation.
For a residential development, it is important to define the lift type, number of stops, expected passenger flow, accessibility requirements, lift cabin design and technical access for maintenance from the outset. Euroformat treats lift equipment as part of the building infrastructure, so the solution is selected for a specific project rather than according to a universal template.
Data required by the architect
For lift design to be carried out correctly, the architect and engineering team need a set of initial parameters. These make it possible to coordinate the shaft, structural openings, lift cabin dimensions and installation requirements.
| Parameter | What needs to be defined | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Shaft | Width, depth, number of entrances, door type | Affects compatibility between the lift and the building structure |
| Pit | Depth and structural constraints | Important for safe equipment installation |
| Top-floor headroom | Height from the finished floor level of the top landing to the shaft ceiling | Affects whether the selected lift type can be installed |
| Lift cabin | Dimensions, finishes, intended use | Should correspond to the building class and usage scenario |
| Service access | Access to components and maintenance areas | Important for future operation and servicing |
Shaft
The lift shaft is one of the key parameters, and mistakes at this stage can be particularly costly. It must correspond to the equipment type, number of entrances, doors, lift cabin and safety requirements. If the shaft has already been built with incorrect parameters, the choice of equipment becomes more limited.
Pit
The pit should be considered before construction work begins. Its parameters depend on the lift type and the selected technical solution. The architectural design should not be finalised before this part has been checked.
Top-floor headroom
Top-floor headroom affects the equipment layout. For the developer, this is important at the planning stage, especially where the building has height restrictions or a complex roof design.
Machine room
Euroformat offers lifts both with and without a machine room. A solution with a machine room is appropriate where a separate technical area is included in the project. Machine-room-less lifts are considered for buildings where space optimisation is important.
Lift cabin, design and building class
The lift cabin should meet not only technical requirements but also the class of the residential development. User expectations will differ between economy, comfort and premium segments. Finishing materials, lighting, the control panel, resistance to everyday use and the overall perception of quality all matter.
Euroformat offers different lift cabin types, including Hoverla, Mont Blanc and Everest. The final choice should be made after analysing the building class, lobby interiors, passenger flow and budget. The lift should look like a natural continuation of the architecture rather than an unrelated technical element.
Backup power as a project option
For Ukraine, backup power should be discussed before the technical solution is finally approved. It cannot be added as a universal option without checking the building’s electrical infrastructure, equipment operating modes and safety requirements.
If the developer wants to provide a lift with backup power, this should be included in the technical specification. The manufacturer needs to understand which scenarios are expected: safe completion of travel, operation of specific systems or another technically agreed mode. Each solution is assessed for the particular building.
How to avoid rework
Before construction starts, it is advisable to go through a short checklist:
- Define the building class and expected passenger flow.
- Agree the number of lifts and stops.
- Check the shaft, pit and top-floor headroom parameters.
- Select a preliminary solution type: with or without a machine room.
- Coordinate the lift cabin with the architectural concept of the residential development.
- Discuss backup power separately.
- Prepare drawings and technical data for consultation.
- Agree service access to the equipment.
To begin the process, the project team should review the For architects section, where lift shaft design requirements are available depending on the selected lift type, along with brochures and drawings. After that, the team can contact Euroformat to coordinate the solution with an engineer and receive an accurate commercial proposal.
Frequently asked questions
When should a lift be included in a new-build project?
A lift should be planned at an early design stage, before the shaft, pit, top-floor headroom and engineering systems are finally approved. This helps avoid alterations to the building structure. The earlier the manufacturer is involved in the project, the more accurately the solution can be selected.
What data is required for lift design?
The required information includes shaft parameters, pit depth, top-floor headroom, number of stops, building type, expected passenger flow and lift cabin requirements. For accurate selection, drawings and a technical specification should also be provided.
Why should backup power be planned in advance?
Backup power affects the building’s electrical infrastructure, equipment operating modes and safety requirements. It should not be treated as a simple addition after the design has been completed. This issue should be agreed with the manufacturer and the project team before the final commercial proposal is prepared.
Conclusion
A lift for a new-build development should be included in the project before the active construction phase, because the shaft dimensions, pit, top-floor headroom, equipment type, lift cabin, service access and the possibility of backup power all depend on it. For the developer, early consultation with Euroformat specialists helps avoid technical compromises, better coordinate the lift with the class of the residential development and prepare a solution aligned with the building parameters and future operating requirements.