A home adaptation project in Coventry has transformed accessibility and independent living for wheelchair user Hannah Miller, with a Gartec Aritco HomeLift Access at the heart of the redesigned property.

The two-storey home was renovated around Hannah’s individual accessibility requirements, providing a practical solution that allows her to move independently between floors and access the whole property without barriers.

Designing for independent living

Hannah worked alongside her occupational therapist and chartered surveyor Nick Bracegirdle, who specialises in inclusive design, to incorporate the lift within the existing layout of the property while maintaining a clean architectural finish.

Gartec was recommended for its collaborative approach and design flexibility, with the team assessing Hannah’s requirements and mobility equipment to ensure the lift would comfortably accommodate both her large powerchair and manual wheelchair.

The selected Aritco HomeLift Access features a 1080 x 805mm platform, fully glazed saloon doors and glass panels to each side. Additional features include a mirror, design panels on the machine side for sound dampening and recessed call station buttons.

Creating a more accessible home

The lift has enabled Hannah to access the upper floor independently and participate more fully in everyday family life. It has also provided wider benefits, including helping to transport furniture between floors and improving accessibility for elderly relatives and visitors with disabilities.

The wider home renovation took around two years to complete, with Gartec working closely with the project surveyor to coordinate the lift installation with the broader programme of works.

The completed project demonstrates how considered lift specification can overcome accessibility challenges while integrating effectively within a residential environment.

Specification

• Lift: Aritco HomeLift Access
• Platform size: 1080 x 805mm
• Doors: Fully glazed saloon doors
• Glazing: Glass panels to each side
• Additional features: Mirror, sound-dampening design panels and recessed call station buttons
• Application: Wheelchair access between floors within a private residence