The challenge
The Museum of English Rural Life (MERL) at the University of Reading explores the history and culture of rural England. With a vast collection of artifacts, archives, and exhibits, it offers insight into rural communities' lives, work, and traditions. From historic tools to digital archives, MERL showcases agriculture’s impact on society. Interactive displays, educational programs, and research opportunities make it a vital resource for students and visitors alike.
The client required a full turn-key lift solution, from design to final installation. A detailed tender process was conducted to ensure the selection of a contractor with the technical expertise and experience to deliver a seamless, fully compliant installation with minimal disruption.
- Designing and fabricating new gantries: Custom gantries were required to accommodate structural limitations and ensure safe, secure lift support. This involved close collaboration between engineering and fabrication teams to meet both design intent and site conditions.
- Working within a live university environment: All works had to be carefully planned around ongoing academic activities to avoid disruption within a busy campus setting.
Our solution: Elite Cabin Lift
This APL Elite Cabin Lift, featuring a hydraulic drive and modern powder-coated steel structure, provides smooth and reliable access between two stops—helping everyone explore the Museum with ease. Beyond its functionality, the lift has been thoughtfully designed to complement its surroundings, blending seamlessly into the backdrop of the Library. Its sleek design and high-quality finishes make it a perfect addition to the space.
Lift details
- Lift
- Elite Cabin Lift
- Capacity
- 385kg (5 persons)
- Floors served
- 2 floors
- Travel
- 3,565mm
- Doors
- Automatic
- Location
- Reading
- Sector
- Education
- Completed
- 2024
See more lifts for schools and universities, or explore the Elite Cabin Lift.
Discuss your projectElite Cabin Lift at MERL Building – University of Reading
APL Elite Cabin Lift
A space-efficient passenger lift designed for residential, commercial and public buildings, with flexible finishes and internal or external installation options.
Case studies
Related projects
The college were looking to upgrade and enlarge their existing 3 stop platform lift to provide disabled access to the lecture theatres, without disturbing daily university operations.
We have used Alliance Platform Lifts on various projects over the last 3-4 years and we find them to be professional, punctual and very forward thinking. No problem is too great and the communication at both tender and post installation stage is second to none. We will continue to use APL’s services on any future platform or cabin lift projects we have.Daniel Griffin · Google review
I am so pleased with the service from everyone at alliance platform lifts, they have been so professional and helpful throughout the whole process, would highly recommend!Max Ball · Google review
outstanding service, very pleased with the product and the process from quoting to after sales care. Highly recommended!Kenton Mitchell · Google review
Polite, quick, good service. Quick installation. Helpful staff.Jerry Peters · Google review
Outstanding service from Alliance would 100% recommendAG Detail · Google review
10/10 experience. Highly recommend!Josh · Google review
Planning a similar project?
Tell us about your building and we will recommend the right lift, with a clear cost and programme.