Designing your dream home is about more than beautiful finishes—it’s about creating a space that works for every stage of life. As more homeowners prioritize accessibility, convenience, and long-term comfort, custom home elevators have become one of the most sought-after features in modern residential design. As a result, homeowners are looking for custom home elevator ideas to improve their standard of living. Today’s residential elevators are no longer bulky or industrial; they are sleek, space-saving solutions that enhance both functionality and home value.
Custom home elevators in 2025 have evolved into essential smart additions that enhance accessibility, safety, and market value. Home modifications for aging in place, such as adding a home elevator, are the fastest-growing segment of the residential remodeling industry. Custom home elevators allow for seamless, quiet, and safe multi-level living. Whether you’re planning to age in place, improve mobility for family members, or simply add a touch of luxury, a residential elevator for your home offers safe, quiet, and effortless access between floors. With advancements in pneumatic and vacuum elevator technology, homeowners now have more flexibility than ever—especially in houses with limited space or existing floor plans.
One standout solution is Cube Lifts, a compact, air-powered home elevator designed specifically for 2- and 3-story homes. With a small footprint, fast installation, and modern panoramic design, Cube Lifts transforms accessibility into an architectural feature rather than a renovation project. In this guide, we’ll explore custom home elevator ideas, design inspiration, installation considerations, and the benefits of choosing a space-efficient residential elevator for your dream home.
The Benefits of a Cube Home Elevator
As a cost-efficient alternative to stairs, Cube lifts are designed to fit into your home as mobility solutions without disrupting your living space. Whether you are planning ahead or looking to immediately assist with your stairs, these residential elevators are a stylish, modern solution for multi-story homes that balances function and design.
At Cube Lifts, we work closely with homeowners to provide personalized elevator solutions that are manufactured using the highest quality materials and are custom built to meet each clients needs. For example, modern pneumatic elevator models consume less electricity than standard household appliances.
Now, let’s explore the benefits that make cube lifts the perfect choice for your dream home and budget.
1. Elevator Lifts Accessibility Without Sacrificing Style
The Cube is a 2-person residential elevator for 2- and 3-story homes, carrying 450 lbs with ease.
It’s perfect for:
- Those who want to age in place without worrying about stairs
- Family members with mobility challenges
- Carrying boxes, luggage, groceries, or laundry between floors
- Those seeking an affordable alternative to a stair lift
Powered by the most abundant resource in the world, air, this elevator lift allows homeowners to keep their pride and joy while making accessibility for all family members, improving their quality of life.
With a panoramic view offering 360° degree visibility while traveling, The Cube is the only pneumatic elevator on the market incorporating a square design and is ideal for customers whose style preferences lean towards clean, straight lines.
Cube Lifts let users stay independent at home with a wonderful and reliable residential elevator that requires minimal maintenance. It’s convenience and luxury, so your home remains stylish and accessible.
2. The Perfect Solution – Everyday Convenience in a Small Footprint
Cube Lifts’ features and installation requirements include:
- 36” x 36” exterior dimensions that fit into corners, landings, or open spaces where a staircase or traditional lift wouldn’t work.
- Self-supporting design that sits on the existing floor.
- No pit, shaft, or separate room for machinery required – just a level surface and power supply.
These make it the perfect elevator lift for houses with limited room.
The Cube’s compact design allows it to be installed in areas of the house where traditional residential elevators simply cannot. Typically installed in just a few days, its small footprint means it can be added to your house with minimal disruption while offering a solution at an affordable cost.
3. A Design Feature, Not Just a Lift
The Cube is designed to enhance your interior, not fight with it. Offering a convenient and reliable solution for multi-floor houses, key advantages of this residential elevator include:
- 360-degree panoramic views, the cab is a floating viewpoint inside your home
- Design that feels like a modern design piece, not an appliance
- An optional in-cabin folding seat that adds comfort without clutter
- Various door configuration options to serve your needs
Thinking about adding a home elevator to your space?
Every home layout is different, and choosing the right residential elevator depends on your available space, accessibility needs, and long-term goals. A Cube Lifts consultation helps you understand what’s possible in your home—without obligation—so you can make an informed decision about design, placement, and installation.
Custom Elevator Design Options
Custom elevators like Cube Lifts are customized for each house with various upgrade options available depending on the clients concerns and needs. With (3) different exterior finishes available for the aluminum frame, the cabin ceiling has a single LED light bulb in the center with an easy to operate car operating panel (COP) which provides speed and reliability of use. Unlike glass elevators, this residential elevator is manufactured using polycarbonate panels which will enhance any house interior.
The Cube’s modern design shows its functionality as a design piece in your home, not just an appliance. It has a sleek design with panoramic views; it’s a beautiful addition to any interior.
Personalizing Your Residential Elevator for Style and Functionality
When it comes to a residential elevator, every homeowner’s needs are unique. Whether you want more mobility, plan for future accessibility, or add luxury to your home, personalizing your elevator experience is key to finding the perfect solution for your lifestyle.
Home elevators offer many design options to match your style and functional requirements. From glass elevators that flood your space with natural light to door configurations that meet your homes layout, the options are endless. Depending on the cost of your project and the company selected, you can choose finishes and other aesthetic features that make your elevator blend with your home’s existing decor or new construction project.
Essential Safety Features Every Residential Lift Should Have
Safety is always top of mind. Many modern residential elevators have built in protections, including secure doors, reliable drive systems, and accessibility equipment for passengers of all ages and abilities. For elevators installed inside a house, an in-cabin phone is required to ensure you can contact help in the event of an emergency. For homeowners with mobility challenges, residential elevators can be customized to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids, providing independence and peace of mind. But not all residential elevators can service wheelchair users so it it important to review the elevator lift chosen to ensure the door and cabin dimensions meet your accessibility equipment needs.
Space-Saving Elevator Solutions for Your Existing Home
If you have limited space or are retrofitting an existing home, there are elevator solutions available. Shaftless residential elevators and compact models can be installed with minimal construction, perfect for homes with minimal space. Experienced authorized distributors will guide you through the installation process with minimal disruption to your daily life.
Ongoing maintenance and customer support are crucial to keep your home elevator running smoothly. Regular inspections and prompt service will prevent issues and extend the life of your equipment, so you can enjoy the convenience and reliability of your elevator for years to come.
Design Ideas With Cube Lifts
Using polycarbonate in the lift’s design brings in natural light and offers user a panoramic view while traveling, creating an open feel in the living space.
It is a modern residential lift that combines accessibility and style in a compact form. Its installation requires minimal impact on existing floors, as the design allows for integration without significant structural changes, making it adaptable to any home layout.
Let’s look at some design ideas that maximize these features.
1. Panoramic Design
Place the elevator near a window wall or an atrium so the 360-degree views capture natural light and architectural details. Benefits include:
- Transparent polycarbonate panels maximize visibility
- Contributes to energy efficiency by reducing artificial lighting
- Bright, panoramic cabin
- Light flows through your home, making it feel open and airy.
Use the elevator as a visual link between the main living area and an upper-floor loft or office. Pair it with minimalist railings and light flooring to keep the space open and airy. The transparent panels provide visibility and openness in any ceiling space.
2. Coordinate Floors, Landings, and Surroundings
While Cube Lifts come as a finished, pre-assembled unit, you have flexibility in how you finish the areas around it. You want to consider:
- Flooring at each landing (wood, tile, stone) to frame the elevator.
- Recessed lighting to accentuate the elevator.
- Feature wall behind the shaft to highlight the vertical lines.
Integrate it near a stairwell to create a sleek “vertical core” that combines stairs and a lift into a single zone. Some ideas:
- Decorative elements around the elevator.
- Plants around the elevator to create a welcoming atmosphere.
- Integrate these elements into the overall home design.
Air-Powered Innovation: Drive System & Safety
All home elevator systems offer various advantages over others depending on application and construction restrictions. But unlike traditional hydraulic or cable-driven residential elevators, Cube Lifts uses pneumatic, air-powered technology. Pneumatic elevators move the cab between floors with a vacuum suction mechanism. This innovative drive system not only saves energy but also delivers a smoother, reliable ride.
Compared to a stair lift, it offers more space, greater comfort, and unique features, like minimal maintenance, that makes is a cost effective solution. Differing from traditional stair lifts, it can carry 2 passengers and household items, making it a more versatile solution.
Regular maintenance on elevators is typically required every six months, but may vary based on usage. Without any harmful oils, gases or lubricants utilized for operation, Cube Lifts are very maintenance free as there are fewer moving components during operation. Per our internationally recognized certification, the only maintenance component is the seal located above the elevator cabin that should be serviced after 15,000 lifts.
While your contractor is available to do the pre-construction, please note that Cube Lifts are Vacuum Elevators that are installed by licensed and trained distributors worldwide.
Installation Ideas & Practical Considerations
Proper home elevator installation is key to safety, accessibility, and property value.
Investing in a home elevator is a worthwhile expense, as it not only enhances your home’s functionality and luxury but also adds long-term value and may save you money compared to moving or significant renovations.
Let’s look at some practical considerations for installing Cube Lifts in your home.
1. Ideal Locations in Your Home
Since The Cube is self-supporting vacuum elevator and can sit on the ground floor rather than requiring a bottomless pit, it can be placed where other traditional elevators can’t. Choosing the right spot for elevator installation is crucial, focusing on areas like stairwells or unused spaces. Common installation sites for home elevators are interior stairwells, which optimize existing space and minimize disruption to the floor plan.
Popular installation ideas include:
- In a corner of the living room
- Rising to a primary bedroom or media room
- Beside an existing staircase
- Using the elevator as a sculptural counterpoint
- In a converted closet or niche space, especially in homes with limited square footage.
Traditional elevators require a dedicated vertical shaft (hoistway) typically around 20–25 square feet with a pit depth of 6–12 inches. Cube Lifts do not have this requirement, nor do they need a machine room, offering far more flexibility of installation in existing homes.
2. Space & Structure
With a 36” x 36” footprint, Cube Lifts is designed for homes where space is at a premium. Home elevators should be chosen based on available space and structural integrity to ensure safe operation. Residential elevators can be installed in larger closets or pantries, maintaining aesthetics while providing functional access.
You and your contractors will mainly need to plan precise floor cut-outs where the elevator travels between levels, as well as the electrical and power supply. This ensures a smooth installation and the elevator integrates into the existing structure.
3. Installation Time
One of the most significant advantages is speed:
- Typical installation time is 2-3 days (once pre-construction requirements are in place)
- This is because it’s self-supporting and pre-assembled
- So it’s a quick and convenient addition to your home with minimal disruption.
Installation time may vary depending on the model, number of stops and complexity of project, including any structural adjustments. But once the space is properly in place, the home elevators design allows for installations to be completed in just a few days, much faster than traditional renovations.
Working With Cube Lifts & Their Dealer Network
Choosing the right company is just as important as selecting the right elevator design. With Cube Lifts, you’re working with a manufacturer that:
- Is American-made
- Manufactures, assembles, and safety tests each unit in Miami, Florida
- Specializes in air-powered residential elevators for 2- and 3-story homes worldwide.
Cube Lifts works through authorized, PVE-certified dealers who handle installation, site visits, and customer support to ensure a seamless fit in your home. Many cities and states require licensed elevator mechanics to install a home elevator. This dealer network means you get top-notch service and support throughout the process. Whether you have an architect on the project or managing your project directly, our dealers are here to provide the service you need.
Cost & Long-Term Value
Investing in Cube Lifts is an investment in your home. Custom home elevators boost home value and facilitate aging-in-place. What you get in return is:
- A safer, more comfortable way to move between floors
- A design feature that enhances your home’s overall feel
- An asset that makes your property more attractive to future buyers looking for accessibility and modern convenience.
The cost of a home elevator is offset by the increased property value and the convenience it provides. Installing a residential elevator can increase a home’s resale value by an estimated 5% to 10%. Future buyers will appreciate the accessibility and modern features, which will make your home stand out in the market. These benefits often outweigh the costs of installation and the money needed to purchase the lift.
Home Elevator Cost: What to Expect
The cost of a home elevator can vary depending on several factors, including the type of elevator, number of floors served, customization options, and installation requirements. On average, custom home elevators typically have a starting range from $35,000 to $65,000 for a two level home, with more complex traditional systems costing more due to extensive construction, pits, shafts, or machine rooms. Compact and shaftless residential elevators often fall on the lower end of the spectrum because they require less structural modification.
When budgeting for a residential elevator, homeowners should consider both upfront and long-term costs. These may include pre-construction preparation, electrical work, permits, and routine maintenance. However, modern pneumatic and vacuum elevators tend to have lower operating and maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts and energy-efficient designs. While the initial investment may seem significant, a home elevator can offset future expenses related to moving, major renovations, or assisted living—making it a smart long-term investment for accessibility and convenience.
Pneumatic vs. Hydraulic Home Elevators
When choosing a residential elevator, one of the most common comparisons homeowners make is pneumatic versus hydraulic home elevators. Hydraulic elevators use a fluid-driven piston system and typically require a pit, hoistway, and separate machine room. While they are powerful and commonly used in commercial settings, they often involve longer installation times, higher maintenance needs, and more structural disruption in residential applications.
Pneumatic home elevators, on the other hand, operate using air pressure and vacuum technology to move the cab between floors. These systems are self-supporting, require no pit or machine room, and are ideal for homes with limited space or existing floor plans. Pneumatic elevators are known for their smooth operation, reliable ride, and energy efficiency, making them a popular choice for homeowners focused on aging in place, modern design, and fast installation. For many residential applications, pneumatic elevators offer a more flexible, low-maintenance solution without sacrificing safety or style.
Elevate Your Dream Home With Cube Lifts
If you’re looking for custom home elevator ideas for your dream home, Cube Lifts offers:
- Air-powered technology and safety
- Minimal pre-construction and fast installation
- Panoramic design and unique exterior options
- A compact footprint that works in real homes
Elevate your dream home with Cube Lifts and experience style, convenience, and innovation. Contact Cube Lifts today to learn more about their home elevator offers and how they can help you. To request more information or schedule a consultation, fill out the form on the Cube Lifts website.
Perfect Elevator Choice for New Construction Homes
From its quick installation and minimal construction to its upgrade options and advanced features, it raises the bar for residential elevators. As you plan your dream home, think about how Cube Lifts can bring your vision to life with elegance and efficiency. With satisfied clients across the globe, elevate your lifestyle and enjoy the many benefits of a Cube Lift home elevator.
Conclusion
In summary, Cube Lifts offers a solution for people looking to add custom home elevators to their living spaces. Their compact design, air-powered technology, and stylish aesthetics make it a cost effective addition for any modern home. By adding Cube Lifts to your home, you get increased mobility and convenience, plus a design feature that enhances your home’s overall appeal.
FAQs
How long does it take to install a home elevator?
Cube Lift’s home elevator can be installed in 2-3 days due to its self-supporting design and pre-assembled components. This can ultimately save end users on pre-construction costs that can vary depending on the project.
What are the main benefits of the Cube Lifts’ home elevator?
The main benefits of a home elevator are accessibility, style, compact footprint, and air-powered technology for convenience and style for homeowners.
Can Cube Lifts be customized to match my home’s interior?
Yes, it can be customized to match your home’s layout and floor-to-floor travel. For an additional upgrade, order the Designer Series – Diamond Package which adds a personalized exterior finish.
What safety features are included with Cube Lifts?
In the event of power failure while in motion, the elevator cabin will slowly descend to the ground floor via gravity. An in-cabin telephone is available to provide immediate contact and assistance in any unforeseen emergency.
Are Cube Lifts suitable for homes with limited space?
Yes, its 36” x 36” footprint makes it perfect for homes with limited space, fitting into areas where traditional elevators can’t.