How Your Elevator Cab Aesthetic Affects Your Property

Ever wonder what your guests really think about your building? Turns out, many visitors make up their minds while riding your elevator. Find out how you can change your cab aesthetic to match your building!

How Your Elevator Cab Aesthetic Affects Your Property

Ever wonder what your guests and residents think about your building? If you’re anything like our customers, curating a building style is an ongoing mission. One big factor that influences a guest’s opinion is your elevator cab aesthetic. 

 

The average elevator passenger takes four trips per day. That means they have plenty of time to take in your elevator interiors and see how well the cladding, floors, and finishings match your property as a whole. If the two vibes don’t jive, it can leave a poor impression. 

 

That means knowing what your guests think about your elevator can have a big impact! It could make sense to upgrade those cabs before other building projects. Renovating a lobby, for example, might go to waste if your cab is from the 1990s. 

 

One way to narrow down your next renovation is to see if your elevator cabs match the aesthetic of your building. To help you seamlessly integrate your cabs to the rest of your property, we’ve created a quick guide to the different types of aesthetics and where they best fit.

Choosing the Right Elevator Cab Interior for Your Building - and Knowing What to Avoid

Clean and Put Together

When cleanliness is key to your property, then you want to make sure your elevator cab sparkles. Keeping a newer interior clean isn’t easier than Old Faithful, but it will look cleaner. Even budget cab materials boast impressive materials that are much easier on your patron’s eyes. 

 

Thankfully, a clean and well-kept elevator cab can be had for a reasonable price. K-Elevators Vertical Series, for example, includes everything you need to quickly replace your old interiors. We can often install them within a day or two. They are ideal for clinics, shopping centers, and other public spaces.  

 

K-Elevator Recommends: Vertical Series

The Dusty Classic

When residents step into this cab, they can tell it’s been through more than a few trips. The floors have that milky sheen from being washed for over a decade. The panels and cladding have scratches and other signs of wear. Maybe the handrails are loose and the overhead lighting flickers. 

 

At K-Elevator, we see this elevator cab aesthetic often. It sets a mixed impression at best. That’s because it shows you take care of the property but, despite the new lobby or freshly paved parking lot, the renovations are clearly not complete. 

 

K-Elevator Recommends: Any of the following updated styles.

The Stylish Modern Approach

With so many new condos going up across the country, it’s no surprise that residents are getting used to sleek elevator interiors. Trying to rent or sell a property can be a challenge when the ride up there feels like a trip back in time. 

 

Impress your guests with a cab interior that feels just as modern and essential as the view from the penthouse. The horizontal series includes stainless steel and laminate finishings that are more in line with today’s styles and trends. 

 

K-Elevator Recommends: Horizontal Series

The Platinum Style

The last renovation can be just as important as the first. So if you’ve been working hard to update the lobby, reception desk, and floors to match the clientele that work or live in your property, you’ve got one last stop. 

 

With our transitional series, extend your sophisticated style to the journey from floor to floor. A mix of horizontal and vertical elements, along with brushed steel and high-end mirrors, make this our best option for bank, law, and bespoke commercial. 

 

K-Elevator Recommends: Transitional Series

Our Favorite Finishings that Improve Your Elevator Cab Aesthetic

While our standard interiors offer incredible value at a low cost, many of our clients enhance the experience even further with custom finishings. 

 

Use the horizontal, vertical, or transitional series as a starting point and boost the look with a host of quality materials. Here are just some of the exciting options available: 

    • Woodgrain Laminates: Wild Cherry, Boardwalk Oak, Stirling Ash, and many more.
    • Stone Laminates: Magnata, Lario, Calcutta Marble, and many more. 
    • Patterned Steel: Natural Finishes & Coloured Finishes
    • Stainless Steel: Brushed Finishes & Mirror Finishes

Whatever the Aesthetic, K-Elevator Is with You Every Step of the Way

No matter what elevator cab aesthetic you’re going for, our experts can help you achieve it. K-Elevator can help you plan, design, and install your custom interior. We have a wide selection of quality materials by brand names such as Wilsonart Laminates and Imagic Glass.  

 

To see just how much customization we offer, try designing a cab right now. Head over to our Cab Design Studio and create the elevator interior that’s perfect for your property.

The Top Finishings to Enhance Your Elevator Cab Aesthetic

Ready to lift up
your elevator journeys?

Renovating Your Elevator: The Most Common Mistakes

Renovating your elevator? Know the top elevator renovation mistakes, BEFORE they happen.

Renovating Your Elevator: The Most Common Mistakes

Renovating an elevator is an expensive, time-consuming process. So it’s best to be done the right way or you’ll risk incurring additional costs. Preparing for renovation day in advance can help you achieve an excellent final result that’s free from common elevator renovation mistakes that many people are prone to making.

 

Below is a list of such mistakes, along with handy tips on how to avoid making them.

7 Common Elevator Cab Renovation Mistakes

1. Introducing Heavy Elements

A grand interior is not well-suited to every elevator, especially small ones with lower weight limits than their larger counterparts. 

 

By introducing heavy, ornate decoration into the elevator cab, you are essentially reducing its ability to carry weight (people, in particular) – remember, elevators are a tool for vertical transportation against gravity, which is why it is best to stick to lightweight, practical interior designs. There is a minimum allowable net weight add threshold that must be adhered to if the finishes exceed the allowable weight a design review must be completed to ensure the installed equipment is capable for the extra weight. This can become very costly.

 

Heavier design options include:

 

    • Decorative ceilings
    • Large or bulky mirrors
    • Concrete or marble floor tile

It’s better to avoid such elements. Keep this in mind before refreshing an elevator’s interior.

2. Installing Stone Flooring

You might be surprised to know that stone floors have become an increasingly popular elevator trend in recent days, especially due to the minimalist movement that encourages the use of simple and sometimes organic textures in interior design. 

 

However, despite their brilliant aesthetic and the recent rise in popularity, stone floors are not recommended for use in elevators because of how heavy they are. Employing them can reduce the elevator’s ability to carry a large load if the stone flooring is heavy enough.

3. Opting for a Ornate Floor

The process of installing tile flooring within an elevator is not as straightforward as you might think. Not all elevators were created equal, and some of them may not support the direct installation of tiles. As a result, you may need to first install a plywood floor and then fit tiles upon it. 

 

Unfortunately, not only does this increase the cost of renovation and redecoration, but it might also raise the floor’s height above the maximum allowance set by local governing bodies, though this limit may vary depending upon where you live.

4. Skipping the Handrails

Some people believe that by removing an elevator’s old, downtrodden handrails, they are maximizing its inner space, as well as getting the opportunity to forgo the cost of installing new ones. However, they forget that the benefits of installing handrails outstrip any potential negatives.

 

Handrails not only maximize comfort for those riding inside the elevator, but they also make the cab more user-friendly for those with disabilities. To meet current code for persons with disabilities handrails must be mounted on all non-access walls. This is within the current B-44 Elevator Code under Non-Mandatory appendix E.

 

Handrails may rust, corrode, or garner excessive scratches over time and may require replacement. So, be sure to install new ones after you remove their older counterparts!

5. Choosing Incorrectly Between Metal Refinishing and Cladding

Metal refinishing is not capable of covering deep scratches and dents, yet many people make the mistake of choosing metal refinishing when what the elevator really needs is a well-executed cladding job. 

 

Cladding is also preferred over refinishing if the cab’s existing walls are covered with scratches  or slightly corroded. 

 

Though metal refinishing is not a suitable replacement for a cladding job, it is the perfect option for the removal of all the imperfections, like light scratches and stain marks, that the elevator’s walls have garnered over time. 

 

Whether you opt for metal refinishing or cladding depends upon how badly damaged the elevator’s interior is, and it is best to take an expert’s opinion before finalizing your decision.

6. Delaying Renovations

Elevator cab renovations take time and can put the device out of use for a while, which is why most elevators are prone to experiencing renovation delays, even though they might need one urgently. 

Renovating an elevator can take anywhere from a day to a week (or more, if there’s an extremely tedious task on hand). Halting the elevator for such a large amount of time can make transportation and movement difficult for some people, particularly if there’s only one elevator within the entire building. 

 

Still, taking time out for renovation and redecorating is extremely important and should not be neglected, or the elevator’s condition will only deteriorate further. 

 

To make up for any inconvenience caused by halting the elevator, the building’s management should ensure the presence of efficient alternatives, like stairs, a second elevator, or escalators if present. 

 

If none of these options are available – or if taking the stairs will prove too hectic – renovations should be scheduled during hours of low rush. Weekends or off days for in-office elevators are ideal, whereas nighttime is perfect for elevators located within malls.

7. Hiring Unqualified Installers

Hiring an unqualified team to handle an elevator renovation job is never a smart move. Tradesmiths like construction workers and carpenters are not in a position to take on the demanding job of renovating an elevator. 

 

Interior designers are no good for this purpose, either, which is why you’ll have to commission a well-reputed elevator renovation team to do the job for you. It is a requirement that anyone working on or in an elevator must be licensed to do so, or be directly supervised by some that is.

 

Professional elevator renovation workers are aware of the essential rules concerning elevator renovation and can keep an eye on vital statistics like material fire ratings, weight limits, and more. 

 

Also, before hiring a team to work for you, be sure to look into their credentials and past projects. An experienced, well-reputed team will be able to deliver superior results significantly faster than an inexperienced counterpart, which is why it is important to look into credible options before hiring.

Rundown of Top Elevator Renovation Mistakes

  1. Introducing Heavy Elements
  2. Installing Stone Flooring
  3. Opting for Ornate Tile
  4. Skipping the Handrails
  5. Choosing Incorrectly Between Metal Refinishing and Cladding 
  6. Delaying Renovations 
  7. Hiring Unqualified Installers

Let Us Help You Avoid Common Elevator Renovation Mistakes

Our team at K-Elevators is fully equipped to handle all kinds of Toronto elevator cab renovations, making us an excellent choice for the task – contact our representatives for a free price quote today! 

Ready to lift up
your elevator journeys?

What Your Elevator Cab Aesthetic Says About Your Building

Ever wonder what your guests really think about your building? Turns out, many visitors make up their minds while riding your elevator. Find out how you can change your cab aesthetic to match your building!

What Your Elevator Cab Aesthetic Says About Your Building

Ever wonder what your guests and residents think about your building? If you’re anything like our customers, curating a building style is an ongoing mission. One big factor that influences a guest’s opinion is your elevator cab aesthetic. 

 

The average elevator passenger takes four trips per day. That means they have plenty of time to take in your elevator interiors and see how well the cladding, floors, and finishings match your property as a whole. If the two vibes don’t jive, it can leave a poor impression. 

 

That means knowing what your guests think about your elevator can have a big impact! It could make sense to upgrade those cabs before other building projects. Renovating a lobby, for example, might go to waste if your cab is from the 1990s. 

 

One way to narrow down your next renovation is to see if your elevator cabs match the aesthetic of your building. To help you seamlessly integrate your cabs to the rest of your property, we’ve created a quick guide to the different types of aesthetics and where they best fit.

Elevator Cab Interiors and Your Building: Choosing What Fits (and Avoiding What Doesn’t)

The Old Faithful

When residents step into this cab, they can tell it’s been through more than a few trips. The floors have that milky sheen from being washed for over a decade. The panels and cladding have scratches and other signs of wear. Maybe the handrails are loose and the overhead lighting flickers. 

 

At K-Elevator, we see this elevator cab aesthetic often. It sets a mixed impression at best. That’s because it shows you take care of the property but, despite the new lobby or freshly paved parking lot, the renovations are clearly not complete. 

 

K-Elevator Recommends: Any of the following updated styles.

Clean and Well-Kept

When cleanliness is key to your property, then you want to make sure your elevator cab sparkles. Keeping a newer interior clean isn’t easier than Old Faithful, but it will look cleaner. Even budget cab materials boast impressive materials that are much easier on your patron’s eyes. 

 

Thankfully, a clean and well-kept elevator cab can be had for a reasonable price. K-Elevators Vertical Series, for example, includes everything you need to quickly replace your old interiors. We can often install them within a day or two. They are ideal for clinics, shopping centers, and other public spaces.  

 

K-Elevator Recommends: Vertical Series

Stylish and Modern

With so many new condos going up across the country, it’s no surprise that residents are getting used to sleek elevator interiors. Trying to rent or sell a property can be a challenge when the ride up there feels like a trip back in time. 

 

Impress your guests with a cab interior that feels just as modern and essential as the view from the penthouse. The horizontal series includes stainless steel and laminate finishings that are more in line with today’s styles and trends. 

 

K-Elevator Recommends: Horizontal Series

A Level Above the Rest

The last renovation can be just as important as the first. So if you’ve been working hard to update the lobby, reception desk, and floors to match the clientele that work or live in your property, you’ve got one last stop. 

 

With our transitional series, extend your sophisticated style to the journey from floor to floor. A mix of horizontal and vertical elements, along with brushed steel and high-end mirrors, make this our best option for bank, law, and bespoke commercial. 

 

K-Elevator Recommends: Transitional Series

The Top Finishings to Enhance Your Elevator Cab Aesthetic

While our standard interiors offer incredible value at a low cost, many of our clients enhance the experience even further with custom finishings. 

 

Use the horizontal, vertical, or transitional series as a starting point and boost the look with a host of quality materials. Here are just some of the exciting options available: 

    • Woodgrain Laminates: Wild Cherry, Boardwalk Oak, Stirling Ash, and many more.
    • Stone Laminates: Magnata, Lario, Calcutta Marble, and many more. 
    • Patterned Steel: Natural Finishes & Coloured Finishes
    • Stainless Steel: Brushed Finishes & Mirror Finishes

From Idea to Install: K-Elevator Is with You Every Step of the Way

No matter what elevator cab aesthetic you’re going for, our experts can help you achieve it. K-Elevator can help you plan, design, and install your custom interior. We have a wide selection of quality materials by brand names such as Wilsonart Laminates and Imagic Glass.  

 

To see just how much customization we offer, try designing a cab right now. Head over to our Cab Design Studio and create the elevator interior that’s perfect for your property.

The Top Finishings to Enhance Your Elevator Cab Aesthetic

Ready to lift up
your elevator journeys?

BLAST FROM THE PAST: 5 SIGNS IT’S TIME TO REFRESH THOSE ELEVATOR INTERIORS

Curious to know if your elevator cabs need a fresh look? Check out our top 5 ways to tell if it’s time to consider an upgrade.

BLAST FROM THE PAST: 5 SIGNS IT’S TIME TO REFRESH THOSE ELEVATOR INTERIORS

Your elevator cab interior says a lot about your property. Although it may seem hidden from view, the inside of your elevators get a lot of traffic. Whether it’s unique flooring patterns, special glass on mirrors, or even custom ceilings, a redesign of that space can go a long way to improving the look and feel of your property as a whole.

Many people think it takes forever to overhaul their building’s elevator cab interiors. They don’t exactly know what happens in the cab interior design process, or what parts of their elevator cabs need an upgrade

In fact, it isn’t as difficult or costly as you may think. At K-Elevator, we believe cab modernization is as easy as 1-2-3. You just need to take the first step and start looking at what your elevator is telling you. So how can you be sure it’s time to upgrade your elevator interior? Let’s find out!

1. The mirrors and paneling are fit for Halloween

Does the old mirror warp every appearance? Are they cracked or splintered? If the handrails are still clean and held firmly in place, you might want to grip on tight while you ride through the “funhouse” elevator.

If there aren’t any mirrored walls, are there scratches from people carrying large objects in and out of the elevator? Is there literal writing on the walls? If you’re seeing any of these things or additional scuffing, peeling, or fading – it’s definitely time to upgrade, or at the very least, invest in some elevator protection wall pads.

2. The overhead lights hurt your eyes

When stepping into an elevator, it should never have the same energy as a hospital. Maybe the lights are too bright, or too fluorescent — did they always flicker like that? Unless you’re trying for a lights show, there’s no need for flashing lights in your elevator.

 

Burnt out bulbs and off-white that hurts the eyes can make you feel like you’re walking straight into a horror movie. If your lighting is off, it might be a good time to give that entire elevator cab a bright and sleek redesign. Your eyes will thank you.

3. Walking into your elevator is like stepping into the past

If riding your elevator feels like a trip to a different decade, your elevator interior is outdated. Instead of waiting for paisley to come back into fashion, this antiquated decor might need a facelift.

 

The elevator is a reflection of the building it operates in, so if you’re getting awkward faces and people averting their eyes from its dated interior, it’s time to modernize. Update your elevator to reflect your modern residential or commercial building, and invite passengers in for a ride that won’t make them cringe at peeling wallpaper.

elevator-cab-makeover

4. The flooring is an eyesore

We’ve all entered elevators and looked at our shoes to avoid eye contact with the other passenger. Sometimes you’re just not in the mood for a friendly elevator pitch, or even just a brief hello. What do you notice when you look down?

 

There’s no better sign your elevator interiors have seen better days if the flooring is starting to crack from the years of abuse, or if there are so many scuffs you can’t tell what the original tile design was. Even worse, have you ever stepped into an elevator with uneven flooring? It’s definitely time to upgrade if you see one of these signs.

 

As an example, check out how these newly renovated floors shine!

elevator cab flooring

5. Your elevator cab should be in harmony with your building

It’s simple: Your elevator interior should match its exterior. Elevators should complement the buildings they’re serving, not make them seem unsafe or unclean.

 

It’s just common sense to say that the last item on our list is clear – if you’re walking down a forested path, you expect to see a tree at the next turn, not a traffic light. If your elevator is the traffic light in the forest, it’s time for that well-deserved interior upgrade.

Does it look like it’s time to upgrade your elevator cab interior? Whether you’re modernizing, refreshing, or redesigning to match your exteriors, it’s time to get planning. 

At K Elevator, we’re experts in giving your elevator interiors the care and attention they deserve. From fully custom designs to quick projects, contact us for all your elevator cab interior needs.

Ready to lift up
your elevator journeys?

The Ultimate Guide to Modernizing Elevator Cab Interiors

Put your best foot forward by learning how elevator cab modernization can make a big difference to your passengers and tenants. Our ultimate guide will help you choose what to update, how long it can take, and how it can improve your property.

The Ultimate Guide to Modernizing Elevator Cab Interiors

An elevator’s mechanical parts can last up to twenty years. The inside of your elevators, however, see a lot more physical wear and tear than you may realize. After thousands of trips, worn-out floor tiles and dirty panels can only get so clean. And even a well-kept interior that may have seemed trendy ten years ago is likely an eyesore today.

 

In our guide, we’ll go over when you should think about modernizing an elevator cab, the things you can upgrade, and some of the packages we offer at K-Elevator.

Everything You Need to Know About Modernizing Elevator Cab Interiors

When Should You Think About Modernizing Elevator Cab Interiors?

Unlike mechanical updates, there’s no specific timeline for updating elevator cab interiors. That means it’s up to you and your property managers to decide the best time to call in a specialist. That being said, we’ve found there are some key indicators that an elevator cab needs some attention.

Constant Repairs

The downtime to fix a broken handrail or loose ceiling tile adds up fast. Getting a handyman to mend your old interior could be better spent investing in a new look.

Smells and Stains

Old vinyl floor tiles and cloth wall panels, over a decade or more, can carry a foul aroma that’s impossible to erase. The only real option is to replace the tiles with something more modern and clean.

Safety Concerns

Cracked or chipped floor tiles can pose a trip hazard, especially in elevators with lots of daily traffic. Also, some older elevator railings are too high or lack structural support, which is an accessibility issue for disabled guests and residents.

Age of Cab

If your property was built in the 2000s or before, then it’s most likely ready for at least a partial modernization. Updating even a few things can completely alter a guest’s experience of your elevator cab.

The Benefits of Modernizing Elevator Cab Interiors

While most safety regulations focus on what’s happening above and below the cab, it’s the interior that your passengers notice first. Damaged doors, unsightly wall panels, and worn-out cladding tell your guests and residents that you’re not keeping good care of your elevators.

 

This means the biggest advantage of updating cab interiors is your passenger’s peace of mind. They’ll stop thinking about the potential dangers of their ride, and probably bug you a lot less, too.

 

How Long Does An Elevator Interior Modernization Take?

It’s true, you’ll need to take elevators offline while we modernize their interiors. A typical modernization takes less than a week. And for small updates, K-Elevators can be in and out in a few days. We’ll also work on one cab at a time, so your passengers will still be able to ride the lifts.

What Is Included In An Elevator Interior Modernization?

One of the best things about modernizing cab interiors is that you can choose what stays and what changes. Some of our clients decide to only change the floor tiles because they’re dirty and cracked. At other times, building management agrees to overhaul the entire cab.

 

Below, we explain the types of modernization that are at your disposal.

Types of Elevator Interior Modernization

Partial Modernization

With this option, property managers get to decide which parts of the cab they would like to modernize. You can keep the mirrors, for example, but change the ceiling tiles and floors. There are many different types of materials to choose from, too.

Here’s a complete list of the cab items for partial modernization:

      • Door and Frame Stainless Steel Cladding
      • Panels and Buttons
      • Walls
      • Floors 
      • Handrails
      • Ceilings 
      • Lighting

Some of the quality materials used in our cab modernization projects are: 

 

      • Woodgrain Laminates
      • Stone Laminates
      • Pattern Stainless Steel
      • Brushed Stainless Steel
      • Mirror Finishes
      • Porcelain
      • Vinyl Sheet
      • Vinyl Tile

Full Modernization

With a full modernization, you update the entire elevator cab. This includes everything listed in the partial modernization options above. K-Elevator offers two types of full interior upgrades, Standard and Custom.

elevator-modernization-brochure

Make sure to review our standard elevator interiors brochure for more insight on our packages. 

How Much Does An Elevator Interior Modernization Cost?

Keeping you on budget is one of our primary goals. Because each elevator cab is different, it’s best to call us for a quote. We can meet at your location and together we’ll come up with a partial or full modernization plan that meets the needs of your building.

With Elevator Interior Modernization, the Choice Is Yours

Modernizing elevator cab interiors may seem like a big task, but it doesn’t have to be. Our design experts at K-Elevator work with you to choose the updates that matter most to your residents. We have over thirty years of experience serving Canada, so your interiors are in good hands.

 

Go ahead and check out our previous work, then send us a message and we’ll do our best to make your elevator cab project a reality.

Ready to lift up
your elevator journeys?

Want to Keep Your Cab Spick-and-Span? Download Our Free Elevator Cab Interior Maintenance Checklist

Looking to level up your elevator maintenance? Read our expert tips and tricks to keeping those interiors fresh.

Want to Keep Your Cab Spick-and-Span? Download Our Free Elevator Cab Interior Maintenance Checklist

When it comes to elevators, there are many routine steps you can take to ensure that your cab interiors stay in tip-top shape. For one, clean walls and well-polished floors are important because most people spend their time in elevators looking at everything but the other riders. By keeping your cab pristine, you’re also making sure passengers feel safe. Plus, you’re representing the best parts of your organization. 

So how do we keep our own elevator cab interiors shiny and new? Let’s take a look.

elevator-interior-cab-cleaning-maintenance-checklist

Download your free elevator cab interior maintenance checklist

5 Tips for Elevator Cab Interior Maintenance

When you want to impress your guests, there are a few simple maintenance tasks that can make a big difference. Here are our top five suggestions for things you can do to keep your elevator interior as dazzling as the day you got it.

 

1. Check your elevators regularly. 

The best way to keep to a cleaning routine is to create an elevator maintenance checklist. That way, you’ll easily keep up with maintaining the light fixtures and the lights in the control panel, and ensure that the emergency phone is connected. This is one of the best ways to make sure you and your guests feel safe.

2. Worried about nicks and dings? Try using WALL PROTECTION PADS.

If your elevator is being used to move any equipment, furniture, or other large or bulky items, consider using elevator wall protection pads to keep your interior safe from scratches and dents that happen by accident.

3. Keep elevator cab NOTICEBOARDS up to date. 

Nothing screams “neglected” more than a year-old notice yellowing in a noticeboard, or a digital sign that hasn’t been updated to reflect the current events. So although this might feel like a small detail, it can make a big difference.

4. Don’t forget about the entrance to your elevator cab. 

This can include the doorframe in the entryway that might need an updated coat of paint, or about cleaning any stainless steel, as many elevators have stainless steel entrance doors and frames.

5. Make sure your car operating panel is working properly.

Check for jammed or malfunctioning buttons in your elevator and keep an eye out for any lingering dirt or debris stuck around the edges. If you find any issues with your elevator buttons, call in for professional maintenance to avoid further damages.

Elevator Cab Interior Cleaning in 4 Easy Steps

Elevators are high-contact places, which makes regular cleaning very important. Not only will this help achieve that fresh and hygienic first impression, but it keeps your passengers healthy and safe from viruses or infections.               

When cleaning your elevator cab interior, it’s best to avoid anything too abrasive. Metal finishings will wear down faster, and you’ll end up spending money on an upgrade sooner than necessary.

 

To find out what cleaners to use, check with your elevator manufacturer. They should be able to give you some recommendations. So without further ado, let’s take a look at the different elevator surfaces and how to keep them clean.   

  1. 1. Elevator mirrors

    Some elevator interiors have tall mirrors — these are easy to maintain much like any other commercial glass or mirror surface, by using a glass cleaner and some lint-free material, or even just soap, water, and a squeegee.    

    2. Elevator floors 

    This may be a no-brainer to some, but to others, it may be less obvious that floor material has a lot to do with how you keep elevator floors clean. Make sure floors are swept regularly to remove debris and if necessary, either polished or vacuumed to keep clean and dirt-free. 

    Another good idea is to clean elevator door sill tracks. A vacuum works best to ensure debris does not build up. Too much dirt in the sills can affect the movement of the doors and potentially cost you a maintenance contractor call. Depending on the use case of your elevator and the climate where you live, this may require more regular maintenance in some buildings than others. If rugs are placed in the elevator during winter, make sure they are regularly changed to keep the interior looking clean and avoid the build-up of winter salt and debris.   

  2.  
Elevator parts showcasing a variety of stunning visual components and design elements for an impressive interior experience.

Get your free elevator cab interior maintenance checklist now

3. Elevator buttons

When disinfecting elevator buttons, make sure you’re using the right kind of cleaner because many buttons are sensitive to different types of solutions. Dupar Controls warns against using abrasive cleaning agents or sharp objects when cleaning buttons to avoid damage. 

Buttons have many moving parts and one wrong spray can lead directly inside the components of the control panel. This is why you should never spray cleaning solution directly onto the buttons themselves, but instead onto the cleaning cloth or tool you are using. 

4. Stainless steel elevator surfaces

Last, you’ll want to clean any metal surface. Modern commercial elevator cab interiors today have many stainless steel surfaces, whether it’s the control panel, handrails, or the doors and walls themselves.

These are all parts of the elevator interior that guests will put their fingers on, so it’s no surprise that the most effective way to clean these surfaces is by using a non-toxic, non-aerosol, pH-neutral, bleach-free, and ammonia-free cleaner that has strong degreasing abilities. Pair it with a soft rag or microfibre towel in order not to scratch the stainless steel.

With a simple elevator cleaning checklist, you can do your part to keep our elevator cab interiors spick-and-span. Not only will you impress your passengers, but you’ll also curb the spread of COVID-19. This is especially crucial with elevator buttons as they are high-touch surfaces.   

Get your free elevator cab interior maintenance checklist

Elevator cab interior maintenance goes beyond keeping a clean surface though, and sometimes it’s important to understand when to throw in the towel. When your cab interiors are starting to show age in the form of scuffs, cracks, or fixtures falling apart, it may be time for a professional repair or upgrade.       

If you think it’s time for a fresh and clean look, K Elevator is here to help you determine your elevator cab interior needs. We can repair worn cladding or floor, and we can also design a custom solution to match your building’s style. Contact K Elevator today to get a quote on a brand new elevator cab interior that will inspire you to keep clean.

Ready to lift up
your elevator journeys?

It’s Time to Look Up: 4 Things to Consider Before Choosing Your Elevator Cab Ceiling

It’s Time to Look Up: 4 Things to Consider Before Choosing Your Elevator Cab Ceiling

There are many different elements that make up a complete elevator cab interior. While wall panels and door cladding are hot topics when it comes to elevator design, ceilings are just as important for designing a beautiful elevator cab. Not only are ceilings and lighting crucial for the safety of your passengers, they also can tie your whole design together for a polished, sophisticated cab interior.

 

Whether you’re remodeling your elevator cab or designing a new interior from scratch, here are 4 key things you need to consider when choosing your elevator cab ceiling.

4 Things to Consider Before Choosing Your Elevator Cab Ceiling

1. Elevator Lighting Options

Lighting is arguably the most important element to think about when customizing your elevator cab ceiling. There are a number of lighting options to choose from, including tube light features and LEDs. Opting for standard lighting bulbs that you can easily find an affordable replacement for in the future will make ongoing cab maintenance easier.

 

Another thing to consider with your bulb selection is the warmth of the light. Do you want a soft white, or more of a daylight? How do you want your lighting to look in your elevator ceiling? Are you looking for any special effects? Whether you’re looking for standard LED pot lights or perimeter lighting to give that halo effect, your lighting is factored into the ceiling installation, so this is a decision you want to be sure about.

 

The warmth and directness of your lighting can also affect how the rest of the design looks, so you’ll want to know as early on in your design as possible. A warmer, more yellow light will give a calming effect, but it can make your brushed aluminum look bronze while making wood tones look very saturated. Colder, blue-hued lighting can do the opposite. Likewise, direct lighting where the bulbs are visible in their pots, can quickly oversaturate an area but perimeter lighting can make an otherwise dark-themed interior feel claustrophobic and small. 

Elevator Cab Walls, Ceilings, Lighting and Accessories

2. Your Elevator's Ceiling Panel and Frame Materials

When it comes to ceiling materials, you’ll have to decide whether you want an aluminum frame or to go frameless. You’ll also have the option of choosing the material for the ceiling panels themselves, which could be stainless steel or Lexan. When choosing a material, keep in mind where your elevator will be used and whether the material needs to be more heavy-duty in cases like service elevators.

3. Finishes for Your Elevator's Ceiling Panels

Choosing a finish for your elevator panels, including the ceilings, is probably the most exciting part of your elevator design process. Whatever aesthetic you’re going for, there are dozens of finishes to choose from. You might look for a ceiling finish that matches your cab wall panels, or simply something to complement your elevator accessories. Brushed stainless steel is the most popular choice, but you can also explore patterned, coloured or mirrored stainless steel finishes for a unique look and feel.


When choosing your elevator’s ceiling finish, take into consideration what kind of lighting you are using, the colours or patterns on the walls, and whether your choice will improve the feeling your passengers will get. There’s a fine line between making a ride feel cozy and making it feel cramped; or running the risk of your elevator going from comfortable to cavernous.  

Are you unsure about which finish might look the best for your interior panels? Look no further than our Cab Design Studio to help you visualize your perfect elevator cab interior.

elevator cab ceiling design

4. Elevator Cab Interior Packages

At the end of the day, sometimes you don’t want to think too hard about creating a custom design for your elevator ceiling and all the other components of your cab. Many elevator cab interior companies like K-Elevator offer packages where you can make a selection from standard elevator interior ceilings that fit most scenarios. Consulting an expert in the field right away and asking about existing packages may be the best option for those who want a high-quality design without investing too much time and effort in tailoring every single aspect. 

For a full selection of K-Elevator’s elevator cab interior packages, check out our brochure.

Choosing Cab Ceilings That Elevate Your Design

When it comes to finding the perfect elevator cab ceiling, it might not be as difficult as it may feel at first glance. Once you set your expectations for lighting, material and budget, and decide whether you want a standard design or a custom design, the rest will come easy.

 

The experts at K-Elevator are ready to answer any questions you may have about what features you might need to look for in your elevator cab ceiling based on your situation. Are you looking for a new elevator cab interior? Do not hesitate to contact us today.

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How to Pick the Right Elevator Cab Interior

How to Pick the Right Elevator Cab Interior

If you find yourself in a situation where you have to pick an elevator cab interior, it can be stressful to find the right fit. The process of remodeling an elevator cab is a large cost commitment. Choosing the right solution is the best way to get your money’s worth and make the investment count.

Luckily, choosing the right elevator cab interior isn’t as difficult as you might think whether you’re upgrading or starting from scratch. Not sure whether it’s the right time to upgrade your elevator cab interior? Take a look at these 5 signs it may be time.

We can break down the process of selecting a cab interior into two basic steps: evaluating your needs and choosing your design.

Evaluating Your Elevator Cab Interior Needs

When deciding on which elevator cab interior is right, you have to consider the situations where the cab will be used. Some questions to consider that may affect the elevator cab interior that you select include:

Will it stand the test of time?

It’s important to ask yourself the amount of traffic that your elevator cab will see. While some elevators only move a handful of people, others can move hundreds, if not thousands, daily. Furthermore, some cabs are built for transporting humans only, while others may be carrying freight more often than not. These factors can all affect the material you choose for your elevator cab interior, as you need to choose the right fit to stand the test of time based on your usage.

Who are your passengers?

Understanding your user base is equally as important as understanding your rate of traffic. Take into consideration whether it will be the same group of people making use of your elevator cab daily, or if the users changes frequently, especially if it includes high-profile or important clients. An elevator cab interior, believe it or not, can definitely leave an impression!

Will there be necessary maintenance?

When choosing the perfect elevator cab interior, do not forget about upkeep and general maintenance. If your cab is located somewhere like an outdoor parking garage, it may make more sense to choose an interior that can be easily wiped down whereas if it were in an easily accessible and temperature-controlled office building, you could choose a more aesthetic option.

Are you looking at replacement or refinishing options down the line?

Sometimes, no matter what we do for protection, things will happen. In this case, things can be deep scratches or other sorts of interior damage. This is especially true in high traffic elevator cab interiors. When looking for the right elevator cab, it might be wise to consider whether you’d be able to easily fix or replace elements should any damage occur. 

 

At this stage, you should also consider things to discuss with the contractor installing your elevator cab interior. Perhaps you have a certain budget to stay under, or a time frame the new interior must be installed by. Ensure you have these notes prepared for when you are ready to start shopping.

impression, but it keeps your passengers healthy and safe from viruses or infections.

Choosing Your Elevator Cab Interior Design

This is where the fun begins! The great thing about elevator cab interiors is that they’re extremely customizable. Whether you’re looking for a style that matches the stunning design of the building where it will be used, something unique to the elevator cab itself, or something functional and practical, there will be an option available to fit your vision.

Elevator cabs interiors consist of many features. These include: 

  • Variety of finishes for wall panels 
  • Mirrors
  • Handrails
  • Flooring
  • Ceilings
  • Light fixtures 

Each of these elements have extensive options you can choose from, or if you’d rather, you can also select a complete prepared package without any personalization. For those who want to delve deeper into the elements of an elevator cab before making a design decision, you can read our Elevator Interiors 101.

Do you have an aesthetic in mind?

A great place to start when thinking of elevator cab design is whether you have an overall design style in mind for the look. Are you thinking of a contemporary style? What about a minimalistic look? Have you thought about bold, or simply a classic design?

Do you already have a colour scheme?

Maybe you want your elevator cab to match your existing colour scheme. Maybe you want it to have its own. Either way, when choosing an ideal elevator cab interior, your choice of colour would be a foundational element of your design.

Choose the right package for your elevator cab interior

At K Elevator, we have standard packages for our high-quality, professional elevator cab interior options. The Vertical Series, Horizontal Series, and Transitional Series all have a variety of options and customizable choices to fit your elevator cab interior needs. 


To see our standard package options, you can scroll through our gallery below to find the perfect fit. Don’t see it here? Don’t hesitate to contact us and we can create a custom tailored solution for you.

K-Elevator Standard Elevator Interior Packages

Finding the Right Elevator Cab Interior is Easy with K Elevator

At the end of the day, choosing the right elevator cab interior comes down to 50% practicality, and 50% style. When it comes down to making sure you have the right interior, taking both these sides into consideration will ensure you make the right decision.

 

For any questions on choosing an elevator interior, do not hesitate to consult your elevator cab interior experts at K Elevator Cabs. Not only can we help you find interiors to match your needs, we can help make your cab interior design dreams come to life.

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Keep Your Cab in Tip-Top Shape: Elevator Cab Interior Maintenance Checklist [Free Download]

Keep Your Cab in Tip-Top Shape: Elevator Cab Interior Maintenance Checklist [Free Download]

Most elevators often have maintenance contracts, as after all, they are specialized equipment. When we think of elevator maintenance, we think of ensuring that all moving parts are up to date and working as they should. 

 

Still, there are many steps you can take during day-to-day routine maintenance to ensure that your unique elevator cab interiors remain in tip-top shape.

 

Considering that many people spend time in elevators avoiding eye contact with others or twiddling their thumbs, it’s important to make sure that your elevator cab interior represents your organization well. Clean walls and well-polished floors are important here.

 

So how do we keep our own elevator cab interiors shiny and new? Let’s take a look.

elevator-interior-cab-cleaning-maintenance-checklist

Get your free elevator cab interior maintenance checklist

General Elevator Cab Interior Maintenance

There are a few simple things you can do to maintain an impressive elevator interior to dazzle guests. This is our top five suggestions for things you can do to keep your elevator interior stunning as the day you got it.

 

  1. Keep elevator cab noticeboards up to date
    This might feel like a small detail, but nothing screams “neglected” more than a year-old notice yellowing in a noticeboard, or a digital sign that hasn’t been updated to reflect the current events. 

  2. Use wall protection pads in your elevator cab when necessary. 
    If your elevator is being used to move any equipment, furniture, or other large or bulky items, consider using elevator wall protection pads to keep your interior safe from scratches and dings that happen on accident.

  3. Make sure your car operating panel is working properly.
    Check for jammed or malfunctioning buttons in your elevator and keep an eye out for any lingering dirt or debris stuck around the edges. If you find any issues with your elevator buttons, call in for professional maintenance to avoid further damages.

  4. Don’t forget about the entrance to your elevator cab. 
    This can include the doorframe in the entryway that might need an updated coat of paint, or about cleaning any stainless steel, as many elevators have stainless steel entrance doors and frames.

  5. Check your elevators regularly. 
    Make sure everything is working as it should, including light fixtures and the lights in the control panel, and that the emergency phone is connected. This is an easy way to make sure you and your guests stay safe.

General Elevator Cab Interior Cleaning

Elevators are high-contact places, which makes regular cleaning imperative. Not only will this help achieve that fresh and hygienic first impression, but it keeps your passengers healthy and safe from viruses or infections.

When cleaning your elevator cab interior, bear in mind that not just any old chemical cleaner will be a great idea. It’s best to avoid anything abrasive and if you are unsure, do not hesitate to check with your elevator manufacturer on whether you are able to use a particular type of cleaner. So without further ado, let’s take a look at the different elevator surfaces and how to keep them clean.

    1. Stainless steel elevator surfaces
      Modern commercial elevator cab interiors today have many stainless steel surfaces, whether it’s the control panel, handrails, or the doors and walls themselves. These are all parts of the elevator interior that guests will put their fingers on, so it’s no surprise that the most effective way to clean these surfaces is by using a non-toxic, non-aerosol, pH-neutral, bleach-free and ammonia-free cleaner that has strong degreasing abilities. Pair it with a soft rag or microfibre towel in order not to scratch the stainless steel.
    2. Elevator floors 
      This may be a no-brainer to some, but to others it may be less obvious that floor material has a lot to do with how you keep elevator floors clean. Make sure floors are swept regularly to remove debris and if necessary, either polished or vacuumed to keep clean and dirt-free. Elevator door sill tracks should also be regularly vacuumed to ensure debris does not build up and affect the movement of the door to avoid potentially costly calls from your maintenance contractor. Depending on the use case of your elevator and the climate where you live, this may require more regular maintenance in some buildings than others. If rugs are placed in the elevator during winter, make sure they are regularly changed to keep the interior looking clean and avoid the build-up of winter salt and debris.
Elevator parts showcasing a variety of stunning visual components and design elements for an impressive interior experience.

Not sure what’s in an elevator cab? We break it all down for you.

    1. Elevator mirrors
      Some elevator interiors have tall mirrors — these are easy to maintain much like any other commercial glass or mirror surface, by using a glass cleaner and some lint-free material, or even just soap, water, and a squeegee. 
    2. Elevator buttons
      Finally, take care when disinfecting elevator buttons. You need to make sure you’re using the right kind of cleaner because many buttons are sensitive to different types of solutions. Dupar Controls warns against using abrasive cleaning agents or sharp objects when cleaning buttons to avoid damage. Buttons have many moving parts and one wrong spray can lead directly inside the components of the control panel. This is why you should never spray cleaning solution directly onto the buttons themselves, but instead onto the cleaning cloth or tool you are using. 

Today, keeping our elevator cab interiors clean is critical as we try to curb the spread of COVID-19. This is especially crucial with elevator buttons as they are high-touch surfaces. In many scenarios, elevators are indispensable vehicles for travel, and we must do our due diligence to ensure that all our guests feel safe and that our spaces are sanitized and disinfected as best we can.

Get your free elevator cab interior maintenance checklist

Elevator cab interior maintenance goes beyond keeping a clean surface though, and sometimes it’s important to understand when to throw in the towel. When your cab interiors are starting to show age in the form of scuffs, cracks, or fixtures falling apart, it may be time for a professional repair or upgrade.

K Elevator is here to help you determine your elevator cab interior needs and can help design a custom solution to fit your unique scenario. Contact K Elevator today to get a quote on a brand new elevator cab interior that will inspire you to keep clean.

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Going Up? Must-Have Features for Great Elevator Interiors

Going Up? Must-Have Features for Great Elevator Interiors

Elevators are a direct representation of the building where they work, and the people that work there. With this in mind, it’s a no-brainer that your elevator interiors have to be just as stunning as the building interior.

Like most mid or high rises, your elevator might want to appear professional and charming, or perhaps you aim to achieve a more warm and welcoming atmosphere. No matter what your plan to freshen up your elevator interior may be, consider your options for these must-have features for the greatest elevator interiors.

Dress Up Those Walls: Stunning Elevator Cab Panels

Elevator Interior

The first thing most people notice when entering an elevator cab is that they are surrounded by three walls, and hopefully, that’s three stunning walls of perfectly patterned paneling. Typically, elevator cab interior panels are designed from one of two materials:

      • Plastic Laminate
      • Patterned Stainless Steel

For a long lasting finish, plastic laminate is definitely the way to go. Not only is it incredibly wear-resistant, the decorative options are limitless. Whether you’re seeking woodgrain finishes like cherry, walnut, oak or ash — or a stone finish, such as marble, plastic laminate paneling has got your elevator interiors covered. Literally.

 

On the other hand, patterned stainless steel is the go-to material when a robust solution is required. It can also be used as a decorative accent to add extra texture to a pre-existing design. The greatest thing about the patterned stainless steel panels is that they can even be used along with plastic laminate to create a unique look for your elevator interior.

Look at Me Now: Elevator Cab Mirrors

Do you know what else goes great with plastic laminate or stainless steel panels? That’s right: mirrors. Add style and depth to your elevator cab with the addition of a mirror panel to give your passengers something to look at, so they’re not making awkward eye contact with each other!

Hold on for the Ride: Stainless Steel Elevator Handrails

While your passengers are blatantly trying to avoid awkward eye contact, they probably want to sink into the sides of the elevator interior. That’s just an added bonus of having stainless steel handrails. They also protect your cab panels against damage from items your passengers carry along.

 

With a choice of a brushed or mirror finish, and shape options of round or flat, handrails are a key part to rounding out every elevator cab.

Bask in the Glow: Warm Elevator Cab Lighting

Custom Interior Elevator Cab Design Specialists

It doesn’t end there though. There are still a few more must-have features for the greatest elevator interiors. Let’s take a moment to think about what goes on above our heads, and take both the ceiling fixture and lighting design into consideration. 

 

The standard ceiling option for most elevator interiors is a classic aluminum frame with standard LED tube fixtures. Now, there isn’t anything wrong with the classic — it’s the classic for a reason. That being said, there’s something that feels a bit sterile about walking into an elevator cab lit with LED lights. A great way to up your elevator interior game is to choose warm, inviting lighting — whether that’s on an aluminum frame or a frameless ceiling. Now that’s a timeless look!

Do Look Down: Elevator Cab Flooring Options

elevator cab flooring

Finally, let’s take a quick look under our (hopefully clean) shoes and see what’s happening with the flooring situation. Most options are available in both porcelain, vinyl, or a combination of the above materials. This is where we suggest sprucing things up to push your elevator flooring from good to great.

Classic standard square tiling can be made more exciting with a border or an offset, and if tiling isn’t right for you, don’t be shy and take a look at the vinyl sheets! No matter what type of flooring you choose though, we just recommend that you make sure it matches the style of your elevator cab interior.

So in the end, we can see that an elevator cab interior has many options for its must-have features, but we can highlight these highly recommended options:

      • Stunning wall panels & an interior mirror
      • Stainless steel handrails
      • Warm lighting
      • Eye-catching flooring that ties it all together

With these factors in mind, you have the recipe for the greatest elevator interior money can buy! If you’re looking for help bringing your elevator cab design dreams to life, the experts at K Elevator can help elevate your day.

Ready to lift up
your elevator journeys?