On the coast, the view is the reason for the house. Architects go to great lengths to keep sightlines open from the entry through to the water. A conventional elevator shaft, with its solid walls, can work against that. A glass elevator works with it.
Why glass suits a coastal home
- It lets daylight pass through the core of the house
- Riders enjoy the view on the way up
- It reads as part of the architecture, like a sculptural stair
- It complements the steel, glass and stone common in modern beach houses
Where it goes
- At the center of an open floor plan
- Wrapped by a floating staircase
- Against the ocean-facing glazing
- In an entry court, serving the roof deck
Reaching the roof deck
Narrow coastal lots push living space upward, and the roof deck is often the best room in the house. Extending the elevator to that level makes it usable for every guest, and for carrying everything a party needs.
Design choices
- Round, octagonal or rectangular plan
- Framed or minimal-frame glazing
- Metal finishes to match railings and hardware
- Cab flooring continuous with the house
Coastal practicalities
- Salt air. Specify corrosion-resistant finishes and keep to the maintenance schedule.
- Sun. Consider heat and glare where the elevator faces west.
- Cleaning. Plan access to both sides of the glass.
- Approvals. Coastal zones and design review boards can add steps to permitting.
Plan it with your architect
A glass elevator is best designed in from the outset, though it can be added in a major remodel. Structure, glazing and finishes all need coordinating.
See what is possible
Visit our glass elevators page. Nationwide Lifts of Southern California works with owners and architects from Orange County to San Diego. Call (714) 228-9982 or request a quote.