Royal Academy of Arts

The Royal Academy of Arts was founded in 1768 in Pall Mall to offer a school of design for the use of students in the arts. Initially founded with a membership of 34 artists. The Academy moved between locations at Old Somerset House, the new wing at Somerset House and the National Gallery at Trafalgar Square before settling at Burlington House is 1868, 100 years after its inception and remains there till this day. In 1998 the Royal Academy acquired 6 Burlington Gardens, an Italianate building located adjacent to Burlington House. Design development has been ongoing since 2008 in order to bring the two Grade II* buildings together to unlock a free flowing conjoined space expanding the overall gallery and teaching areas for the Academy. 

Access Lifts worked with David Chipperfield Architects to specify a Hidden Platform Lift back in Summer 2021 as part of the renovation works bringing together the Royal Academy of Arts and 6 Burlington House. The main contract was won by Knight Harwood who Access Lifts have previously worked with at BAFTA, installing a lift to the main stage. The lift was installed in Spring 2024 and was finished with the original flagstones which were refurbished by the stonemasonry contractor. The lift metalwork was finished in brushed stainless steel to provide a clean finish. The lift features both an on platform control post and wireless remote control landings controls to allow the lift to be used completely independently.

The hidden platform lift is perfect for heritage projects offering discreet access whilst offering great functionality. 

Location: London

Status: Complete

Year Completed: 2024

To see projects similar to the Royal Academy of Arts click on the following links:

Leighton House Museum | Lincoln Cathedral | St Mary’s Guildhall | Ridley Hall, Cambridge | The Newt in Somerset | York Theatre Royal

A hidden platform lift in its down position at the foot of a set of steps
A hidden platform lift at the Royal Academy of Arts in its up position
The platform lift at the Royal Academy of Arts from the upper landing
The hidden platform lift at Burlington House in its rested position
A discreet platform lift at the Royal Academy
The invisible platform lift travelling towards the upper landing.
A view of the lower landing corridor with the hidden platform lift in its rested position.

For more information about lifts like the one above call us on 0800 65 252 65 or email us

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