When accessibility challenges meet difficult terrain, standard solutions often fall short.
That was the situation facing a Vietnam Veteran in Indiana whose home sat atop a sand dune with a steep, unstable slope separating his front door from the driveway. What seemed like a relatively modest elevation change quickly became a complex accessibility challenge that required more than a traditional ramp or vertical lift.
Working together, Access Elevator and Access BDD designed and installed a custom outdoor Inclined Platform Lift (IPL) that restored safe, independent access while overcoming one of the most challenging site conditions imaginable.
The Challenge: Accessibility on a Sand Dune
The homeowner’s property presented several obstacles that made conventional accessibility solutions impractical.
The home was built into the side of a sand dune, creating a steep grade between the residence and driveway. While the total rise was approximately 78 inches, the unstable sandy soil significantly complicated the project.
Traditional accessibility options were carefully evaluated:
- A wheelchair ramp would have required an exceptionally long run to meet accessibility guidelines.
- Extensive retaining walls and structural stabilization would have been necessary.
- A vertical platform lift was considered but would have required significant support structures and additional space.
The goal was clear: create a safe, reliable path between the home and driveway while minimizing the project’s footprint and maintaining long-term durability in a challenging environment.
Finding the Right Solution with Access BDD
After evaluating the site and discussing the family’s needs, Access Elevator recommended an outdoor Inclined Platform Lift from Access BDD.
Unlike a vertical platform lift, an IPL follows the natural slope of the terrain, traveling along a rail system installed directly on the hillside. This approach offered several advantages:
- Reduced structural requirements
- Smaller overall footprint
- Better integration with the property’s existing layout
- Enhanced durability in an outdoor environment
- Safe and independent wheelchair access
By following the natural grade rather than fighting against it, the Access BDD IPL provided a practical and elegant solution to an otherwise difficult accessibility problem.
Engineering for Difficult Terrain
Projects like this are never simply about installing equipment.
Success depended on understanding the site’s unique environmental conditions and developing an engineering strategy that would remain stable for years to come.
Site Preparation and Stabilization
Before installation could begin, the team focused on preparing the hillside.
The existing wood retaining wall was removed and replaced to improve long-term stability. The hillside was then graded and prepared to support the lift system and access pathway.
Because sandy soil can shift over time, every aspect of the installation required careful planning and precise execution.
Custom Measurements and Design
Unlike standard lift installations, this project required a custom-fitted approach.
The Access Elevator team collected detailed measurements directly from the hillside and worked closely with Access BDD’s engineering team to develop a lift system specifically designed for the site’s dimensions and terrain conditions.
This collaboration ensured that the rail system aligned perfectly with the slope while maintaining smooth, reliable operation.
Deep Foundation Support
One of the most critical aspects of the project was creating a stable foundation.
To secure the lift structure, the installation incorporated:
- Custom-engineered support locations
- Fourteen-inch-wide concrete piers
- Eight-foot-deep foundations
- Reinforced support structures designed specifically for sandy soil conditions
These foundations created a stable platform capable of supporting the lift system while resisting soil movement and environmental changes.
The Installation Process
As construction progressed, the transformation of the site became evident.
The project moved through several stages:
- Existing site conditions were evaluated and documented.
- The hillside was graded and prepared.
- Foundation and pier locations were established.
- Concrete supports were installed.
- The rail system and inclined platform lift were mounted.
- Electrical service was extended to power the lift.
- Final testing and safety inspections were completed.
Each phase required careful coordination between engineering, construction, and accessibility specialists to ensure a successful outcome.
The Result: Safe, Independent Access
Today, the homeowner enjoys safe and reliable access between the house and driveway through a custom outdoor inclined platform lift designed specifically for the property.
What began as a difficult terrain challenge became a durable accessibility solution that restores independence and peace of mind.
The completed installation demonstrates how the right combination of engineering expertise, site-specific design, and high-quality accessibility equipment can overcome obstacles that may initially seem impossible.
Why Inclined Platform Lifts Are Ideal for Challenging Outdoor Sites
Many homeowners assume a ramp is the only option for navigating changes in elevation. However, challenging properties often require a different approach.
An inclined platform lift can be an excellent solution when:
- Terrain is steep or irregular
- Space for a compliant ramp is limited
- Extensive excavation would be required
- Long-term durability is critical
- Independent wheelchair access is needed
By utilizing existing grades and minimizing structural impact, inclined platform lifts often provide a more practical and cost-effective solution than alternative accessibility systems.
Partnering for Better Accessibility
At Access Elevator, every project begins with understanding the unique needs of the individual and the environment.
By partnering with Access BDD and leveraging custom engineering, our team was able to transform a steep, unstable sand dune into a safe and dependable access route for a veteran who wanted to maintain independence in his home.
Accessibility isn’t always about finding a standard solution. Sometimes it’s about designing the right solution for the challenge at hand.
If you’re facing a difficult accessibility situation – whether it’s a steep hillside, limited space, or complex site conditions – our team can help evaluate your options and develop a solution that works for your home, your property, and your lifestyle.
Need an Accessibility Solution for a Challenging Property?
Contact Access Elevator today to learn how custom inclined platform lifts, vertical platform lifts, stair lifts, and residential elevator solutions can help you maintain safe, independent access at home.