People come to Bend, Sisters and Sunriver to build the house they intend to live in for the rest of their lives. They think hard about the view, the great room and the garage for the toys. Fewer think about how they will get upstairs at eighty. It is worth five minutes now.
Why the question comes up here
Central Oregon homes are commonly designed with the main living area on the upper floor to see over the junipers to the Cascades. That is a fine idea, and it means stairs between you and your kitchen every day.
Three ways to plan ahead
- Install an elevator during construction. The lowest cost for the best result. The shaft is framed with the house.
- Frame the shaft now, fit the elevator later. Stack a closet on each floor to elevator dimensions. Use them for storage until you want the elevator.
- Design for single-level living. Put a primary suite, kitchen and laundry on the entry level, and keep upstairs for guests.
If you choose an elevator
- Place it near the garage entry and mudroom
- Give it a stop at the garage level if the garage is lower
- Size the cab for a wheelchair and a companion
- Get dimensions from the elevator company before the framing plan is final
Style
A traditional elevator can be finished in wood to suit a lodge-style home. A glass or pneumatic elevator suits a modern design and keeps the mountains in view.
Local conditions
- Winter snow and ice make a step-free route from the garage valuable
- Power outages happen. Plan for backup power if you depend on the elevator.
- Wildfire season can mean leaving quickly. Do not rely on an elevator in an emergency.
Other things to rough in
- A dumbwaiter chase from garage to kitchen
- Blocking in bathroom walls for grab bars
- Wider doorways and a curbless shower
Talk to us early
Nationwide Lifts of Oregon works with builders and architects across the state. Call (503) 545-6586.