Savaria
Savaria Vuelift Panoramic Home Elevator
$18,000 – $35,000
Check Current Price →SafeAtHome Guide's Take
Freestanding round panoramic home elevator — no shaft required. Installs in 1–2 days with minimal construction. 450 lb capacity, 360° glass enclosure. Travels up to 4 floors.
The Savaria Vuelift is one of the few residential elevators that can be installed without building a traditional elevator shaft — making it genuinely viable as a retrofit in an existing home. The freestanding tower anchors to the floor and ceiling of each level, requiring only a ceiling cutout (not a full shaft build-out) and a dedicated electrical circuit.
The 360° panoramic glass enclosure transforms what could be a utilitarian addition into a design feature. Available in 37-inch and 42-inch diameter configurations, the larger model comfortably accommodates a wheelchair. Travel speed of 0.4 m/s feels natural and unhurried. The hydraulic drive system is quieter and smoother than cable-drum alternatives.
For a family with a loved one who can no longer use stairs at all — not just struggling with them — and where a stairlift isn't a viable option (wheelchair users, two-story homes with heavy furniture-moving needs), a home elevator is the right solution. The Vuelift makes that solution achievable without a $50,000 construction project.
Pros
- No elevator shaft or major construction required
- 360° panoramic glass is modern and attractive
- 450 lb capacity
- Travels up to 4 floors
Cons
- Higher cost than vertical platform lifts
- Round design limits placement options
- Requires 110V dedicated circuit
Specifications
| drive | cable drum |
| floors | up to 4 |
| capacity | 450 lbs |
| cab diameter | 37 or 42 inches |
| installation | 1-2 days |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a home elevator require a shaft?
Traditional cable and hydraulic elevators require a shaft. Pneumatic (vacuum) elevators like the Savaria Vuelift are freestanding and require only a ceiling cutout — no dedicated shaft construction. Vertical platform lifts also require no shaft.
What is the difference between a stairlift and a home elevator?
A stairlift travels along the staircase on a rail; a home elevator travels vertically in an enclosed cab or on a platform. Elevators are better for wheelchair users or multi-floor travel. Stairlifts are more affordable and easier to install for users who can walk.
How much does home elevator maintenance cost?
Annual professional maintenance for residential elevators typically costs $200–$500. Most states require licensed elevator inspection. Factor this into your total cost of ownership when evaluating home elevator options.