HOME Arches is a distinctive, free artist development hub in Greater Manchester, UK, dedicated to supporting artists across various disciplines, that opened in January 2025. They provide high-quality studio spaces at no cost, along with a comprehensive program of residencies, events, and workshops. Each year, they collaborate with up to 2,000 artists, fuelling creativity in the North of the UK.

 

Situated in three railway arches between their main building and Whitworth Street West, HOME Arches offers 5,000 hours of free creative space annually. Half of their studio space is allocated to artists from underrepresented groups, including members of the Global Majority, d/Deaf, and disabled artists, and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds. HOME Arches is transforming the quality of studio space in Manchester, nurturing exceptional art for audiences both locally and beyond.

 

Due to the space being lower than street level, a platform lift was essential to provide full accessibility to the three arches. To ensure the lift was discreet and seamlessly blended with the existing architecture, while maintaining an attractive appearance. a bespoke solution was required.

 

In 2022 Robertsons Construction approached Stepless based on designs created by Jon Matthews Architects, given the limited space within the Arches, the platform lift needed not to occupy any floor area when not in use. They needed a solution that could be incorporated within the stair, but it was not possible to have our bespoke Model C platform lift due to pit depth. Fortunately, the layout allowed for the combination of the Model G platform with safety shields (usually used with the Model C) and a full-height door at the lower level. This design enables the Model G platform to form the majority of the stair upper landing, allowing full use of the staircase when the platform is not in use.

 

The SLP Model G is designed to fit within the smallest possible shaft, allowing for a custom platform size that matches the upper landing and door dimensions while preserving the architect's aesthetic vision for the stair and surrounding area. Essentially, the Model G is a platform with a gate and a control post, it is enclosed within a shaft, with walls typically within 10mm of the platform. The cut-out in the stair landing, the lower level door, and the automatic shields create the shaft when the platform is in use, the lower level door was provided by CEITA via our UK Stepless distributor, Access Lifts.

 

The impact of HOME Arches extends beyond the individual artists. By prioritising underrepresented groups, the initiative is helping to diversify the cultural landscape of Greater Manchester. This inclusivity enriches the community, bringing a wider range of voices and perspectives to the forefront of the local arts scene.

 

Moreover, the art produced at HOME Arches often reaches audiences far beyond Manchester. Many artists go on to exhibit nationally and internationally, bringing recognition to the region’s creative talent. This not only boosts the artists’ careers but also enhances Manchester’s reputation as a hub for innovative and diverse artistic expression.

 

This Stepless bespoke platform lift solution helps achieve the space's goal of fostering greater inclusivity within the art world, making it accessible to a wider audience and ensuring that everyone can enjoy and participate in the artistic experience.