Andrzej Blonski Partnership
Russel Chambers
The Piazza
Covent Garden
London WC2-E8RH

C.S. No: S730/93

Type: D.P.L.-250-W.F.-R.

Old Theatre Royal, Plymouth

London based Architects Andrzej Blonski Partnership, were contracted to oversee the refurbishment of the Old Theatre Royal in Plymouth. The entrance Foyer of the theatre had an existing short rise stair case to the lower concourse area, where provision had to be made for the less able and wheelchair users to gain unrestricted access in accordance with planning regulations.

The responsible architect had difficulty sourcing a short rise lift of proprietary manufacture, that would meet the limited budget and provide an aesthetic cost effective installation.

Saxon was approached, resulting in the project architect visiting our offices, for detailed discussions with Saxon designers, in order to engineer a solution.

Various options were considered and it was finally agreed to utilise a standard design and adapt the unit to blend with the chosen materials and finishes as far as costs would permit.

It can be seen from the photograph that adjacent concrete walls were constructed and the hydraulic actuated lifting frame of the platform recessed into the side wall, with the power pack located in the void behind.

It will also be seen that the lift platform and auto-rise wheel stop over-run guard were recessed 50 mm deep into the floor screed. Of the two standard powder coat finishes, Honey Beige and Steel Grey, the latter was preferred to complement the general décor.

The solution was designed, manufactured and installed within budget.