Elevators are often mundane, practical aspects of our daily lives. We step in, press a button, and ascend or descend without much thought. But for some architects and designers, elevators are more than just transportation; they are opportunities to push boundaries, showcase creativity, and elevate the user experience. From breathtaking panoramas to kinetic sculptures, read on to explore some exceptional elevator designs that transform them into architectural marvels:
However, before exploring these architectural wonders, be mindful that there is abundant research on the psychology of elevator interior design. Emotions are evoked by colors, touch, and movement, which are influenced by materials, and time and space are perceived differently by lighting. These elements get even more powerful in the cramped interior of an elevator. Natural light, mirrors, and reflective surfaces can provide the impression of space, and a soothing color scheme can help reduce claustrophobia. Through careful consideration of these psychological aspects, architects have the ability to turn elevators from functional pods for transit into tiny havens.
City Hall Subway Station, Stockholm, Sweden
The City Hall Subway Station in Stockholm is considered “the world’s longest art gallery,” taking the elevator experience and design to a whole new level. The elevator trip is turned into a visit to a miniature museum as each stop showcases original artwork by various painters. Passengers rise through a vivid, colorful cave-like atmosphere designed by Ulrika Hydman Vallien at Kungsträdgården station, while Lennart Merenius’s captivating kinetic artwork can be found at Tekniska Högskolan. The elevators transform into immersive artworks that improve thousands of people’s daily commutes.
ArcelorMittal Orbit, London, UK
Experience an elevator view unlike any other at the 115-meter-tall ArcelorMittal Orbit in London’s Olympic Park. A translucent pod that takes visitors up the twisted artwork offers sweeping views of the city and surroundings. The climb is an exciting adventure through the complex, welded steel structure, providing a window into the technical miracle that lies behind the artwork.
The Shard, London, UK
Another well-known monument in London is The Shard, which offers an amazing view elevator experience. The elevator runs diagonally along the building’s tilted glass facade, providing passengers with ever-changing panoramic views of the city as they ascend the 306-meter skyscraper. The trip turns into a fascinating visual story that presents the constantly shifting landscape from various angles.
LVMH Tower, Singapore
A lift’s design is approached more artistically at Singapore’s LVMH Tower. A separate piece of commissioned art, representing the variety of creative voices within the LVMH luxury group, is displayed in each elevator. A changing gallery of modern art greets passengers as they ascend, adding to the experience and sparking conversation during the elevator ride.
Shanghai Tower, Shanghai, China
The elevators at the Shanghai Tower, the second-tallest structure in the world, are efficient and swift machines. As they soar upward, they provide spectacular city vistas at a speed of 20.5 meters per second. It feels like a controlled freefall, with breathtaking views interspersed throughout.
Hamad International Airport, Doha, Qatar
American artist Tom Otterness created the unusual “Lamp Bear” elevator at the Hamad International Airport in Doha. The colorful, fun sculpture transforms the elevator into a fanciful art installation with a touch of wonder and delight. The whimsical design serves as a reminder that creativity and joy can be brought into even the most ordinary surroundings.
Yas Viceroy Hotel, Abu Dhabi, UAE
The Yas Viceroy Hotel in Abu Dhabi features an elevator experience inspired by Formula One. With LED lighting and simulated engine noises, the sleek, aerodynamic structure is meant to imitate a Formula One car as passengers rise through it. The trip turns into a fully immersive pre-race ritual that prepares guests for an exciting stay at the hotel.
So, the next time you see or ride an elevator with exceptional interior design and views, forget about claustrophobia and anxiety and enjoy it! And remember that the ones who created it thought about your safety, psychology, and overall experience.
