90-Degree Elevator Entry/Exit? No Problem! How Pivoting Your Elevator Design Can Make All the Difference

Not every home is built the same—and your elevator shouldn’t have to be either.

We recently completed a custom elevator installation that showcases just how adaptable home elevators can be. This particular project features a 90-degree configuration, meaning the elevator opens on one side at the main floor and on an adjacent side at the third stop. It’s a clever solution when the home’s footprint doesn’t allow for the same entry/exit orientation on every level.

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traditional elevator

Cue the Ross from Friends voice: “PIVOT!”

 Yes, we pivot—literally and creatively—to meet the needs of your unique space. Whether due to floorplan limitations, garage placement, or architectural design preferences, we can design your elevator to open at different angles on different floors.

A Clean, Functional Look with Powered Bi-Fold “Bus Gates”

Both sides of this custom Savaria elevator feature white, powered bi-fold gates—often referred to as “bus gates” due to their folding style. These gates are sleek, space-saving, and fully automated for a smooth user experience.

Scroll through the photos and you’ll notice the elegant paneling on the back of the elevator cab and the change in door placement between each stop. It’s a clear visual demonstration of how we customized the configuration while maintaining aesthetic and functional consistency.

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traditional elevator pictures in Arkansas

Why Powered Gates Are a Must for 90-Degree Setups

Here’s something important to keep in mind: If you’re considering a 90-degree entry/exit configuration, powered gates are essential.

Why? Because with manual gates, there’s a high risk that someone might forget to close the gate behind them after exiting—especially when the door opens in a different direction on another level. If a gate is left open, the elevator will not run until it’s closed, causing the next user to take the stairs just to reset the elevator. That kind of defeats the whole purpose of having one, doesn’t it?

With powered gates, the system automatically closes itself, minimizing the chance of user error and helping your elevator run smoothly every time.

Planning a Home Elevator for Your New Build or Remodel?

Whether you’re in the planning stages of a new build or thinking about adding an elevator to your existing home, now is the perfect time to think about layout flexibility. A 90-degree elevator entry/exit could be the key to unlocking better flow between floors, without sacrificing valuable square footage.

At C.H. Elevator, we specialize in residential elevator installations across the Midwest—from custom shaft way elevators to pneumatic vacuum elevators (PVE) and vertical platform lifts. No matter your floor plan or design style, we have solutions that work.

Ready to Pivot With Us?

If you or your client’s home design poses layout challenges, don’t worry—we have custom solutions that work. A 90-degree elevator configuration may be exactly what you need to make vertical living seamless.

Let’s talk about your project and explore how we can design an elevator to fit your space beautifully and functionally.

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