Freedom in Form
Custom Glass Elevator in a Timber Frame Masterpiece
Location: Parkland County, Alberta
Project Type: Residential Accessibility Retrofit
Scope: Custom Elevator Design & Integration
Bringing The Vision to Life
The Challenge
When a homeowner in Parkland County came to us with a personal request to regain mobility within his home, we knew this project would require more than technical expertise. His timber frame home, tucked away on a serene hill and featuring soaring ceilings and exposed fir beams, was not just a residence; it was a piece of art. Our task? Integrate a modern elevator into this architectural masterpiece without compromising its aesthetic integrity.
The Vision
The client needed an elevator not just for functionality, but as a gateway to renewed independence. Our challenge was to design a solution that felt as intentional and beautiful as the home itself—a seamless blend of utility and style that would elevate both the space and the homeowner’s quality of life.
The Solution
We selected a custom steel-frame elevator structure for its strength and longevity, echoing the robustness of the surrounding timber. To honor the visual openness of the great room, the elevator car was enclosed in glass panels, preserving unobstructed views of the fir beam architecture and allowing natural light to flow freely through the space.
… The Solution
To ensure cohesion with the existing design, we retrofitted fir railings, spindles, and flooring, carefully matching the original materials and finishes. Every detail was considered—from structural alignment to wood grain continuity—so the addition would feel like it had always belonged.
Collaboration in Craftsmanship
This project wouldn’t have been possible without the collaboration of trusted trades and specialists who shared our vision. Together, we combined architectural sensitivity with engineering precision to deliver a result that is as functional as it is beautiful.
The Result
A striking yet subtle glass elevator that enhances the home's grandeur while restoring accessibility and independence to its owner. It stands as a true testament to what’s possible when design and purpose come together in harmony.