The decision to modernize an elevator presents a unique chance to consider if the interior and components can use some re-thinking. “My feeling with modernizations, as in all elevator designs, is that the interior materials must last. They should speak to the unique sense of time, and should not be a trend that does not work tomorrow,” says KONE’s Vice President of Design, Anne Stenros.
She reminds that an elevator built years ago not only looks out of style, but uses obsolete technology that requires a lot more electricity to operate. “Buildings live their own life, they are renovated or their usage change over time. Modernization provides an opportunity to update old equipment with something that is more energy-efficient, safe and stylish,” says Stenros.
KONE’s sales personnel work with customers in deciding from a wide selection of car interiors and signalization panels in the car and landing in order to match the architecture. The end result is a design that works in harmony with the building, and meets today’s higher safety and energy efficiency standards.
Stenros is careful to note that design is not something only for high-end properties, nor does not have to be expensive. Finding a little extra something can make the ride, and the building that houses it, memorable.
“While customers tend to choose traditional design elements, it is my hope that they can begin to see the wider possibilities,” says Stenros.The company’s design offering has also attracted outside attention. KONE received the 2008 Design Award, given by the Chicago Athenaeum and the European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies. Good Design Awards recognize products and graphics that highlight the best-of-the-best in design innovation. KONE is the first ever elevator manufacturer to receive this acknowledgement