Refreshing an outdated elevator doesn’t need to involve a full-scale renovation or a major investment. In many residential and commercial buildings, simple, strategic updates can significantly improve the look, feel, and perceived quality of an elevator—boosting user comfort and even enhancing the value of the property.
Before making any design decisions, it’s smart to conduct a thorough risk assessment on your elevator to ensure that any cosmetic improvements align with current safety and compliance requirements.
Below are several cost-effective ways to modernise your elevator interior without exceeding your budget.
Update the Wall Panels
Replacing old wall panels is one of the fastest ways to transform an elevator interior. You don’t need premium materials to achieve a modern look—laminate, brushed metal, acrylic, and cost-efficient timber veneers can all elevate the space visually. Modular panel systems are especially affordable and allow for quick installation with minimal downtime.
Consider choosing lighter colours or subtle wood grains to make small lifts feel more open and contemporary.
Refresh the Handrails and Fixtures
Handrails, buttons, and control panels often show wear first. Replacing outdated chrome rails or scratched metalwork with sleek stainless steel or matte black alternatives can instantly modernise the space.
If the fixtures are mechanically sound, refinishing them rather than replacing them can be a cost-conscious approach that still achieves a fresh aesthetic.
Improve the Lighting
Lighting plays a major role in how an elevator feels. Old fluorescent lights tend to cast a harsh or dated glow. Switching to LED lighting not only brightens the interior but also reduces long-term energy costs.
You can also introduce:
- Warm-white LEDs for a softer, more welcoming appearance
- Downlights or strip lighting for a contemporary touch
- Diffused ceiling panels to eliminate glare and shadows
Good lighting makes even older lifts feel newer and more premium.
Upgrade the Flooring
Flooring is another element that shows heavy wear. Luckily, replacing elevator flooring is typically straightforward and cost-effective.
Popular budget-friendly options include:
- Vinyl planks or tiles – durable, stylish, and easy to clean
- Rubber flooring – excellent for high-traffic commercial buildings
- Laminate – provides a timber-like appearance without the price tag
- Low-profile carpet tiles – offer comfort and noise reduction
Choose materials with non-slip properties to maintain safety and compliance.
Use Mirrors to Open Up the Space
Mirrors immediately make an elevator feel larger and more updated. Installing a full-width or partial mirror is one of the quickest and least expensive improvements you can make. If your lift already has a mirror, consider replacing it with a frameless or bevelled-edge style to modernise the space even further.
Add Protective Yet Stylish Design Elements
A simple way to refresh an elevator while extending its lifespan is to add:
- Stainless steel or acrylic kick plates
- Protective corner guards
- Decorative trims or mouldings
These options not only lift the overall appearance but also reduce maintenance costs by protecting walls and fixtures from damage.
Introduce a Modern Colour Scheme
A cohesive colour palette can transform the elevator interior without requiring major structural changes. Whether through wall panels, flooring, or accent trims, neutral tones paired with subtle contrasts create a polished, modern look. Consider working with finishes that match the building’s existing décor for seamless visual integration.
Refinish Instead of Replace
When working with a tight budget, refinishing existing materials can be incredibly effective. Metal polishing, surface vinyl wraps, or repainting the ceiling can deliver a dramatic improvement at a fraction of the cost of replacing components. Vinyl wraps, in particular, offer endless design possibilities—from marble and timber textures to bold, contemporary colours.
Don’t Overlook the Small Details
Addressing small aesthetic elements like scuffed skirting, scratched frames, or cloudy control panel covers goes a long way. These micro-upgrades are inexpensive yet significantly contribute to the overall impression of cleanliness and modernity.
Schedule Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
A refreshed elevator interior only stays fresh with proper upkeep. Implementing a structured cleaning routine and ensuring regular maintenance checks can prevent deterioration and extend the lifespan of your improvements. Even the best refurbishments lose their impact without ongoing care.
Modernising an elevator doesn’t always mean undertaking a major renovation
With the right combination of strategic updates—wall panels, lighting, flooring, fixture refinishing, and protective design elements—you can create a clean, modern, and welcoming space without exceeding your budget.
These cost-effective upgrades not only enhance the user experience but can also improve the building’s perceived value. A refreshed elevator interior signals attention to detail, safety, and comfort—qualities that matter to residents, tenants, and guests alike.
