Fast facts
Challenge• To install an elevator in a residential building under historical protection serving elderly residents
Solution• Utilise KONE’s machine-room-less elevator to save space and reduce construction costs• Innovative placement of the elevator shaft in the courtyard to retain the architectural heritage of the building
Calle Calatrava 13• Completed: August 2010• Floors: 5• Apartments: 34• Architect: Hector Salas de la Hera
KONE Solutions• KONE MonoSpace® elevator• KONE Care™ maintenance service
Quality of life
Calatrava 13 is beautiful example of early 20th century Spanish residential architecture. Apartments line the perimeter of the building, interconnected by passageways that lead to a central courtyard. This particular building is under historical protection, so the elevator solution could not impact the original architecture.
Preserving history downtown
Installation of an elevator had become an urgent priority. The project came at the request of the residents, who had to rely on neighbors to perform daily tasks such as going shopping, taking out trash or just going out for a walk.
To minimise the impact of a modern elevator on the architectural heritage of the building, KONE installed the elevator in the central courtyard. KONE MonoSpace® with a glass panel design was the elevator of choice. The absence of a machine room allowed for greater design freedom and saved on construction costs.
Being located in the centre of Madrid brought the typical logistical problems of downtown projects due to heavy traffic and narrow streets. The installation needed to be simple, clean and quick. Using its fast track process, KONE completed the project within just six months, from March to August 2010.
KONE provided additional work, constructing the shaft where the elevator would be installed, as well as making improvements to electrical system of the building in order to supply power to the elevator.
Resident expertise
One of the residents, Hector Salas de la Hera, was also the project architect. This really was an unusual aspect of the project, as the project implementation was closely controlled and monitored by de la Hera. And this surely contributed to the fact KONE met all deadlines and quality requirements.
“As an architect,” says de la Hera, “this elevator solution fits well with the existing elements of the community. Choosing an aesthetically pleasing design which incorporated a panoramic glass wall on one side was definitely the right choice.
Meaningful change
Residents are pleased. The new elevator means they are more independent and can enjoy a social life.
“I can tell you that it has been of fundamental importance to their daily life and clearly has reduced their stress,” comments de la Hera after talking to neighbors.
KONE will handle all maintenance of this new elevator as part of the KONE Care™ maintenance agreement to ensure the residents of Calatrava 13 continue to enjoy their new quality of life.