Custom Builder Sees Elevators Take New Direction

NORTH SHORE, IL – February 10, 2010, — The idea that elevators are used to access the upper floors of homes and commercial buildings may be a bit limited, said custom builder Jeff Samuels.
In fact, the requests he has had from clients for elevators have been exclusively in ranch-style homes where active adults wanted to be sure they would continue to have access to large lower-level areas.
“Installing elevators in private residences became trendy for a while as builders appealed to the growing number of “Baby Boomer” active adults, but in recent years, the only requests we’ve had have been from active adult buyers who were building one-level homes and wanted to make sure they could access their large finished lower levels as they aged in these homes,” Samuels said. “Though an elevator in a ranch-style home seems counterintuitive, it makes good sense in certain situations.”
Many budget-conscious buyers in today’s economy look at elevators as an extravagance.
“When building a home with an elevator, the foundation must be deepened at the location of the elevator to accommodate the complete range of motion needed and the electrical system must be expanded for operation of the elevator,” Samuels said. “In addition, cost is affected by the number of stops the elevator must make, its size, speed and the interior finishes chosen. Interiors may be very elaborate, with family crests, inlayed wood patterns or logos.
“An elevator must be inspected annually, and a phone line installed for use in case of malfunction. Depending on differences in these various factors, elevators usually range between $25,000 and $30,000.”
Samuels noted that residential elevators are typically small and have weight restrictions.
“Sometimes people think an elevator will come in handy for moving furniture from one floor to another, but in reality, only small pieces can be moved conveniently,” he said. “Nonetheless, an elevator can be a step-saver in very large homes, and when handicap access is needed. However, there are so many exciting features that custom clients can choose for their homes today that elevators have given way to more frequently used luxuries.”
Working with a custom builder who is well versed in current trends can ensure that custom home clients make wise decisions when planning their homes.
“A custom home doesn’t have to be a massive multi-million dollar mansion; it can be any size the buyer desires. Typically the cost-per-square-foot is greater than for a production home due to architectural fees, time and special materials, yet many buyers believe having the freedom to create a residence that is uniquely personal is well worth the extra cost. Samuels Homes is a hands-on custom builder, well versed in amenities and their costs. We are respectful of our clients’ budgets, and we assist them in setting priorities and making informed decisions so their homes meet and exceed their expectations.”
Samuels Homes is respected for constructing design/build homes and major remodeling projects on in-fill pieces throughout the North Shore. The company has been successful in building in Chicago's North Shore communities for more than 30 years, has enjoyed continuing success in a variety of market conditions, and has earned an impeccable reputation for integrity.
An affiliate of Red Seal Development Corporation, Samuels Homes has created several prestigious Chicago-area communities including Normandy Hill, Courts of Stonehedge, Mallard Creek, Woodmere, Carlyle and Braeside. Samuels Homes has also built custom homes in Glencoe, Long Grove, Highland Park, Deerfield, Buffalo Grove and Winnetka. Most of these custom residences are in the $1 to 4 million price range. The company has received numerous awards, and has one of the best referral rates in the custom home building business from loyal clients.