Seamless integration in award-winning home
When designer‑builder Hayley Peterson began planning her Whitianga Waterways home, the lift wasn’t an afterthought - it was part of the architectural concept from the very first sketches. With fifteen years in design and construction, she wanted a home that reflected her aesthetic, supported long‑term mobility, and delivered a seamless two‑level layout.
The result is a coastal‑industrial home that went on to win a Gold Medal at the 2025 House of the Year Awards, with the Powerglide S‑Series fitting the design so naturally it appears custom‑made, despite being a standard model.
“I wanted something that looked liked it belonged here - not a commercial lift dropped into a house.”
Lift Integration — Designed to Belong
Hayley selected the S‑Series in a curated designer décor, choosing smoky‑grey tones and glass doors to keep the lift feeling open and aligned with the home’s palette.
Timber flooring continues directly into the lift car, reinforcing the sense of continuity. The lift is also sized for wheelchair access, with space for a carer. “You need enough space for a carer too. It’s about thinking ahead.”
“It feels integrated - part of the architecture, not an add‑on.”
Installation, Support and Everyday Performance
Hayley describes the installation process as smooth and well‑managed. “Powerglide had the most features. Their team made everything clear and easy - they turned up on the right days and worked around us.”
A minor handle issue was resolved with a personal site visit from Powerglide’s director. “He drove all the way down himself - that’s amazing service.”
And the lift itself?
“It’s really smooth and quiet - easy to use. I love it.”
Industrial Warmth with a Coastal Edge
Hayley’s design blends industrial character - reclaimed brick, barn‑style joinery, black detailing - with the softness of timber floors, cedar ceilings and expansive glazing. “I love the New York loft theme, but softened for the beach.”
Large bifold doors open the living area to a sheltered outdoor zone with radiant heaters and a fire, creating a year‑round entertaining space.
Even practical constraints became design opportunities, such as concealing air‑conditioning units within a dropped ceiling painted black to enhance the industrial feel.
Future‑Proofing for Family and Resale
With a family history of arthritis and an eye on long‑term usability, Hayley designed the home to support changing needs.
Two master suites - one upstairs, one downstairs
Lift access between both levels
Layout flexibility for guests, parents or future owners
“It’s future‑proofing for me and for resale. You never know who’ll live here next.”
Outcome
This project shows how a standard Powerglide S‑Series lift can deliver a high‑end architectural result when integrated early. For specifiers, designers and builders, it demonstrates a practical, future‑ready approach to two‑story living - without compromising aesthetics or spatial flow.
Location: Whitianga
Powerglide Elevator Specs: S-Series
Weight Capacity: 350kg
Lift Configuration: Full Car
Design & Manufacture Time: 10 weeks
Install Time: 2 weeks
Design & Installation Process: Process managed by Powerglide’s specialist in-house team
Designed By: Hayley Peterson
Building Contractor: Peterson Design & Build
Maintenance/Servicing Requirements: Maintenance-free for the first five years
Complies with: NZS 4334:2012
Mechanism: Hydraulic drive with self-supporting rails
Speed: Around 9 seconds, floor-to-floor
Manufacture: Manufactured in New Zealand using locally sourced materials and componentry
