Redefining urban luxury living, the Townhomes at Library Park were designed to meet surging demand for condo alternatives in desirable downtown Fort Collins. But with floorplans spanning 4 levels, access becomes an issue – especially in a state with strict laws around accessibility in multi-unit projects.
The challenge: find an accessibility solution that still allows the architect to let light into the townhome and create a sense of spaciousness
A home elevator was always in the plans for 2 of the 10 Townhomes at Library Park units due to ADA requirements, but the developer originally had a traditional elevator in mind. However, the enclosed nature of a typical elevator created a visual obstruction that limited the amount of natural light that could be let into the townhome – a common challenge with this type of construction.
When one of the presale buyers suggested a glass elevator as an alternative, it was initially expected to be cost-prohibitive. But everyone was pleasantly surprised at the reasonable cost of the Savaria Vuelift – especially when compared with custom glass elevators that cost upwards of half a million dollars.
An illuminating solution
The architect laying out the floorplan found that switching to the glass Vuelift elevator opened up many opportunities, especially to bring more natural light into the project. Wrapping the stairs around the elevator allowed them to open up more windows in the stairwell, which shone light straight through the lift and into the living space. In addition to making the stairwell feel wider and less claustrophobic, the plan made all the rooms feel bigger and more spacious despite a limited 35′ x 26′ footprint.
Model choice
Due to overwhelming demand, Vuelift elevators were included in all of the pre-sold units. Vuelift was also included in the show model, where it became the centerpiece of home tours: prospective buyers were treated to a panoramic ride from the ground floor to the top level, giving them a beautiful, sweeping view of the entire home.
Standard luxury
Once potential buyers experienced the show home with the Vuelift, there was no going back; impressed by the spectacular visual statement, convenience-factor and practical 950 lb capacity, every buyer wanted one in their unit. The Vuelift became such a unique and differentiating feature that what was originally offered as an option became a standard feature in all 10 townhomes.
Credits
- Developer: NoCo Townhomes Inc.
- Architect: Kephart
