Client: Chris and Sarah Dyson
Architect: Chris Dyson Architects
Type of works: supply and installation of a Stannah Microlift.

A Stannah Microlift was “a necessary innovation” for 11 Spitalfields, a Huguenot House which appeared as a finalist in the 2008 Grand Designs ‘Best Restoration Category’. That was how Kevin McCloud, Channels 4’s Grand Designs presenter, described the Stannah Microlift installed into the historic townhouse, in the Spitalfields district of London.

The Huguenot house has been meticulously restored to its former glory by Chris and Sarah Dyson. The 17th Century property had been left dilapidated and in the need of some TLC. The couple converted the large townhouse into their family home and the premises for Chris Dyson Architects. Their hard work and dedication to the project showed in its finish, which was recognised by Grand Designs.

The townhouse has been taken back to it origins as a multi-purpose building. The basement provides space for a small business. The ground floor houses a gallery with shop frontage, with the design studio at the rear of the house across the courtyard. The family home occupies the upper three floors.

The Stannah Microlift was installed in the premises to help the Dysons achieve practical family living over several floors. During the restoration, the new kitchen and dining area were relocated to the ‘weaver’s loft’ rooftop extension. The Microlift was a must when it came to the family shopping. The lift stops on all four floors (except the basement), enabling the easy transport of goods without wearing out the stairs and the occupants of the building.

The original dumb-waiters in the grand London Homes were installed to aid service from the ‘downstairs’ preparation areas (kitchens) to the ‘upstairs’ dining area, reducing the need for guests to actually see the servants. The Microlift is delivering a similar function, although in this day and age the servant and the host are usually one and the same. It is discreetly located behind hinged panels and is easily accessed when required.