As the aesthetic and functional expectations of workplaces continue to evolve, so too do the details that shape the employee and visitor experience—right down to the lifts. In today’s office buildings, elevator cab design is more than just a means of vertical transport. It’s an extension of a building’s identity, a subtle reflection of brand values, and an important element in enhancing overall user comfort. Here’s a closer look at some of the key elevator cab design trends currently shaping modern office buildings across Australia.
Minimalist Interiors with Premium Finishes
Sleek, minimalist interiors are trending in lift design, in line with the broader architectural lean towards simplicity and functionality. Stainless steel, back-painted glass, brushed bronze, and timber laminate finishes are popular choices. These materials not only project a clean, modern look, but they also offer durability and easy maintenance—ideal for high-traffic commercial spaces.
Custom Branding and Identity Integration
Office buildings are increasingly using elevator interiors to subtly reinforce their brand identity. Whether through custom panel colours that align with corporate branding, laser-etched logos, or unique wall textures that echo a company’s design ethos, lifts are becoming a seamless part of the brand narrative.
Smart Lighting Solutions
Lighting within elevator cabs has evolved from basic fluorescents to sophisticated LED systems that can be programmed to shift in tone or intensity throughout the day. Indirect lighting, cove lighting, and feature downlights are all being used to create a more inviting, dynamic ambience. The right lighting not only improves visibility but also contributes to a more luxurious and comfortable ride.
Touchless and Tech-Forward Features
Post-pandemic, there’s a growing preference for touchless technology in shared spaces. Touchless call buttons, smartphone-enabled access, and voice-activated controls are being integrated into modern commercial lifts—helping to reduce the spread of germs and offer a smoother, more hygienic user experience. These features also improve accessibility, catering to a more inclusive office environment. Commercial lifts designed with these technologies in mind provide both convenience and safety, aligning with modern expectations around health and innovation.
Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
Sustainability remains a major focus in office building design, and lift cabs are no exception. Designers are selecting recyclable materials, incorporating energy-efficient LED lighting, and opting for regenerative drive systems that recover and reuse energy. These efforts not only reduce the environmental footprint of the building but can also contribute towards achieving Green Star or NABERS ratings.
Acoustic Comfort
In busy office buildings, noise control is often overlooked. However, acoustic insulation within elevator cabs is gaining popularity, particularly in high-end commercial spaces. Soft-close doors, sound-absorbing wall panels, and vibration dampening flooring materials can all help ensure a quieter, more peaceful ride—enhancing the overall building experience.
In a competitive commercial property market, attention to detail matters
Elevator cab design, once an afterthought, is now a key
consideration in shaping the feel and functionality of modern office buildings.
Whether you're planning a new development or refurbishing an existing space,
investing in well-designed commercial lifts can elevate your property—both
literally and in terms of value.
