Modernisation project gives prestige residence a lift

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Block lift refurbishment in Bayswater, London

A major part of managing a residential block is ensuring that all essential facilities are in a good state of repair and fully functional. This is not only for practical reasons central to the day-to-day use of the building, but also vital for fire and safety purposes and the wellbeing of all who live there.

To achieve this, buildings are regularly checked and tested as a matter of course as part of the planned maintenance agreement. In this instance, the building in question, 50 Kensington Garden Square, was due for scheduled lift refurbishment.

50 Kensington Garden Square

Originally built in the 1980’s this former office building in Bayswater was converted into an elegant residential block, completed in 2020. It comprises 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, a penthouse, plus a health club featuring a gym, pool and squash court. It is a highly desirable residence in a premium location, and a busy living space complete with 24-hour concierge. It is important therefore that any maintenance projects are managed considerately to ensure minimum disruption to the residents.

Refurbishing the lifts : Phase 1

Part of the original fabric of the building, the lift equipment had been failing for some time, proving unreliable – and even out of service at times. On examination it was clear that the lift system had reached the ceiling of its lifecycle and that key operational components needed to be replaced. MIH, planned the refurbishment of the building’s four lifts, working in tandem with trusted partner, Ardent Lift Consultancy.

Ardent Lift Consultancy specified the project and sought suitable contractors to fulfil the work according to protocol. A section 20 notice was served and leaseholders consulted following post-tender interviews.

The project consists of 2 phases. Phase 1 has just been completed and 2 of the 4 lifts have now been modernised. Phase 2 is scheduled for future implementation within 2 years, to distribute costs over time while ensuring continuous lift availability for residents.

Improving fire safety

This task had particular complexities concerning the building fabric and the interface with the lift. A specialist fire stop company were employed to install intumescent material between the fire rated lift doors and building fabric, bringing it into line with fire safety regulations. To date two of four lifts have been completed.

refurbishment of lift - London

Before: original car was dated and coming apart
After: new car finishes in tune with the building interior

Lift car top

Before: The lift car tops were cluttered and dark
After: Now with handrails, checkerplate & refuge areas for safe maintenance

Lift controls well organised

Before: Machine and controller were outmoded / discontinued
After: New control system with gearless machine for optimal efficiency

Lift pit, oil-free and clean

Before: Grimy/oily and unsafe elements for operatives
After: Cleaned/coated with oil retardent paint, safety measures put in place for operatives

Reuse and recycle

The components taken from the modernised lift will be retained to potentially help the two remaining lifts to continue to function until they can be worked on, according to the maintenance schedule.

Onwards and upwards

The project is running to plan and on budget at the mid-point. Currently, the two refurbished lifts offer improved service and quality. They have been upgraded aesthetically with a bespoke finish and benefit from improved accessibility and safety standards.

Residents can now look forward to another 20+ years of smooth service as they move around the building.