Pylon

Definition and Uses

An internal tower is a freestanding structure installed inside a building to create an elevator shaft without the need for masonry work. It is particularly well-suited for listed buildings, light renovations, open lobbies, or atriums where constructing a masonry shaft would add excessive complexity to the project and create an intrusive visual impact.

The internal tower integrates seamlessly into contemporary spaces: a structure made of lacquered steel or brushed stainless steel—featuring laminated glass or perforated steel panels—becomes a genuine design element while fulfilling its technical function of enclosing the elevator.

Advantages of the indoor tower

• Installation without heavy masonry work: quick setup
• Structure can be dismantled and repositioned as the building evolves
• Custom finishes: lacquered steel, stainless steel, laminated glass, composite panels
• Compatible with all types of elevators (electric, hydraulic, PRM-compliant)
• Ideal for listed buildings or projects requiring minimal structural impact

Typical applications for the indoor pylon lift

The indoor pylon lift is suitable for multi-level private homes, commercial buildings with an atrium or open lobby, public-access buildings undergoing renovation without structural changes, hotels wishing to add a stylish elevator to the lobby, and office buildings undergoing refurbishment.

Definition and Uses

An external tower is a self-supporting structure anchored to the ground and attached to the building façade at specific points, installed outside the building itself. It enables the addition of vertical access without altering the building’s interior spaces—a particularly valuable solution for existing buildings where the internal layout does not allow for the integration of a dedicated shaft.

These external towers are often paired with panoramic elevators or façade lifts, enhancing the building’s architectural appeal while ensuring accessibility for people with reduced mobility. OCTÉ Lift and SECA have mastered the specific challenges posed by outdoor environments, including corrosion, inclement weather, wind, and temperature fluctuations.

Benefits of the outdoor tower

• No work required on the building’s interior structure
• Ideal for making existing buildings accessible to people with reduced mobility
• Structure made of 316L stainless steel or painted galvanized steel for maximum outdoor durability
• Glazed version available: a striking panoramic façade lift
• Minimum IP55 ingress protection rating for all exposed electrical components
• Anti-corrosion treatment and highly durable polyurethane paint available

Regulatory and technical constraints for outdoor towers

Installing an outdoor tower requires either a prior declaration of works or a building permit, depending on its height and footprint. In protected areas (such as ZPPAUP zones or the vicinity of historical monuments), approval from the *Architecte des Bâtiments de France* (Architect of French Buildings) is mandatory. OCTÉ Lift and SECA conduct structural analyses (wind resistance in accordance with Eurocode 1, foundation design) and assist clients with all administrative procedures.