Modern design trends and revolutionary technology are taking the residential and commercial elevator world by storm. Now that 2026 is officially underway, we’re seeing a lot of interesting trends take off, including a pull towards sleek aesthetics, an emphasis on biophilic design, and continued advances in AI integration. It’s quickly become clear that current trends are all about maximizing convenience by using game-changing technology while still focusing on smooth design elements like frameless glass doors and low-profile lighting.
In this guide, we’ll explore and break down several current trends shaping residential and commercial design. We’ll also touch on how we at Day Elevator & Lift are embracing these current trends by working with exceptional manufacturers who are leading the charge in innovative technology and eye-catching trends. If you’re considering an upgrade or a new system, partnering with experts for residential elevator installation is key to achieving both style and functionality.
The Power of Cutting-Edge Technology & AI Integration
The AI boom is rapidly changing our day-to-day life, both at home and in the workplace. AI technology has become a staple for Smart Home enthusiasts seeking to maximize convenience at every turn. In the world of elevators, that technology is currently being implemented in a handful of fascinating ways. Modern systems also support residential elevator upgrades that integrate seamlessly with home automation setups.
1. Voice Activation: The development of voice activation technology isn’t just a modern convenience; it’s a major step towards improving universal accessibility. This feature allows elevator users to seamlessly navigate between floors without ever touching a button. Voice activation makes everyday tasks like carrying groceries or moving boxes a breeze. More importantly, it represents a major step towards improving accessibility, proving extremely useful for individuals with varying degrees of mobility function or other limitations. Voice activation in elevators has already proven to be an extremely valuable asset and continues to become more widely available.
2. Touchless Elevator Controls: Voice activation is just one of several touchless control options that have exploded in popularity in the world of elevator design. Touchless controls really took off at the beginning of the decade as a response to concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic. Like voice activation, touchless control eliminates the need for users to physically touch surfaces (germaphobes, rejoice!). However, unlike voice activation, touchless uses technologies such as mobile apps and motion sensors to call and control the elevator. Similar to voice activation, touchless technology is an advancement that dramatically enhances accessibility and convenience. It also improves daily hygiene practices and discourages the spread of germs transmitted by hands. This is achieved by eliminating the need for users to touch a surface that others have repeatedly touched.
3. IoT-enabled monitoring: The abbreviation IoT, short for the Internet of Things, refers to a network of physical objects embedded with sensors, processing capabilities, software, and other technologies. The data and information of these physical objects is then recorded and shared in a collective database. Operating like a “cloud,” but for everyday objects, IoT is helping elevator users by providing real-time updates on maintenance concerns, energy usage, and overall performance. IoT is able to gather performance data on things like:
- Motor Performance
- Door Cycles
- Vibration Levels
- Energy Consumption
IoT is invaluable from a maintenance perspective, as its system can send users predictive maintenance recommendations. This type of proactive technology can help users avoid costly issues or potential breakdowns in the future. IoT can also help substantially with record-keeping, giving users access to the history of their elevator’s operation at the touch of a screen.
4. Advanced Security and Access Control: Technology and surveillance are quickly making elevators safer by dictating who can use them and how they can be used. Current technology has made it possible for elevators to use biometric systems (facial or fingerprint recognition), mobile credentialing, and floor-based access based on user profiles. This type of protection is a major asset for high-security properties (corporate headquarters, government buildings, private residences, and medical facilities) where access to buildings is tightly restricted.
Security integration can now also include remote monitoring by building managers or security teams, which is especially beneficial for apartment complexes and commercial properties with multiple users. This integration complements residential elevator maintenance efforts by ensuring the system operates safely and efficiently.
5. Energy Efficiency: In 2026, many elevator users seek to improve energy efficiency and minimize their building’s overall carbon footprint. Engineers have explored ways to make this possible, and so far, their discoveries and inventions have been instrumental. To name a few:
- Regenerative Drives: Regenerative drives essentially “recycle” energy. When it comes to elevators, regenerative drives capture energy from the braking system and feed it back into the building’s HVAC system. This allows for energy that would otherwise be lost as heat to be converted into usable electricity, reducing overall power consumption. In layman’s terms, when an elevator travels downward with a heavy load or upward with a light load, excess kinetic energy is generated. Instead of that energy being dissipated through resistors, regenerative systems enable “recycling” efforts that redirect energy back into the building’s electrical network. This regenerated energy can then be used to support other operations. As a result, energy efficiency is improved, leading to lower utility costs, reduced heat output in the machine space, and a measurable decrease in the building’s carbon footprint.
- Smart Stand-By Modes: Many newer elevators enter a low-energy stand-by mode when they’re not actively in use. These stand-by modes can dim cab lighting, power down displays and control panels, and reduce readiness consumption. This is a great option for residential elevators, specifically those installed in residential apartment buildings, where elevators often go for prolonged periods without use.
- Machine-Room-Less Designs (MRL’s): MRL’s are not a new invention by any means, but the way in which they’re being built and retrofitted into homes and businesses is becoming easier thanks to technological advancements. On average, MRL’s consume less power, operate more efficiently, and reduce heat loss. This is because they require less energy to operate and have a lower carbon footprint than machine room-powered elevators. MRL’s are a particularly popular option for those looking for a convenient but sustainable solution.
- LED Lighting & Energy-Efficient Components: Early prototypes of LED lighting date back to the early 1960s. However, in the past couple of decades, LED lighting has really taken off as a viable, energy-efficient option. Nowadays, LED is considered up to 75% more efficient than traditional light bulbs. Low-energy ventilation fans and high-efficiency motor drives have replaced a lot of earlier technology. These seemingly small but significant changes are making certain components of elevators more sustainable.
Ultimately, these meaningful changes are benefiting users in a multitude of ways. They demonstrate that elevators are becoming safer, smarter, and more equitably accessible. It’s these innovations that continue to push elevator design into the future.
The Current Design Trends Dominating 2026
1. Glass Elevators: Glass elevators have become increasingly more popular in recent years. Regularly found in both residential and commercial properties, glass allows for a seamless, unobtrusive integration while remaining visually pleasing. Glass elevators also provide a modern, airy look. While the invention of glass elevators dates back quite a way, the newer addition of frameless glass doors has really caused the trend to skyrocket in popularity. This type of glass-based design element gives elevators a very modern appearance by offering panoramic views and a sense of openness. Given the nature of glass elevators, they have become increasingly popular in high-rise residential and commercial buildings.
2. Ambient Lighting: We’ve already discussed the role of LED lighting regarding sustainability, but what do they offer in terms of design and aesthetics? Fortunately, LED lighting is both energy-efficient and revered for its purposeful and calming appearance. Right now, LED lighting trends indicate a preference for a soft and soothing lighting style. In particular, cove lighting is a design technique that installs lighting into places like ledges, recesses, or curtain valences. Because these lights are installed into existing structures, they’re often not visible, curating a clean and minimal look. The use of soft, ambient light draws attention to attractive design elements without being jarring.
3. Biophilic Integration: Perhaps one of the most exciting trends in elevator design today. Biophilic design is rooted in the natural world, incorporating elements such as plants, natural light, and organic design into lift cabs. Not only does this type of design look great, but it is proven to make you feel great too. Biophilic design has been shown to reduce stress, improve mental well-being, and create relaxing environments through its sensory-rich materials. Biophilic creations can appear in all types of living spaces, but in elevators specifically, many designers use wood, stone, and other nature-inspired finishes that comply with fire-safety and durability requirements. Biomorphic shapes, living organic matter, and circadian lighting can also be used to bring the beauty of the outside world into interior spaces.
4. Personal Style: Elevators now offer more design options than ever before, making it easy to showcase personal style through materials. From vintage wood paneling to minimal stainless steel, elevators can reflect the building’s or property’s overall aesthetics. Earlier in the decade, the term “quite luxury” started trending on social media, and it has since had a massive influence on everything from fashion to beauty. Quiet luxury has also become a staple in building design. Essentially, quiet luxury is a term that describes a space that evokes understated sophistication where quality, craftsmanship, and premium materials speak for themselves without relying on bold logos or flashy finishes. Quiet luxury often incorporates elements such as soft, ambient LED cove lighting, matte metals, warm wood veneers, and natural stone accents. This creates an elevator that is calming and pleasing to the eye while still presenting as refined and intentional.
5. Cohesion: Design trends are moving away from mismatched surfaces toward cohesive interior systems. The idea behind cohesion is to create a fluidity that bridges the gap between the elevator and its immediate surroundings. For example, this can mean installing elevator floor materials that complement the other flooring in the building. This same sense of cohesive design can also include the harmonious balancing of ceilings, walls, handles, trim, and accents. The goal is to create coordination between the elevator and the building, which is easily done in virtually any space, residential or commercial.
Basically, trends in 2026 center on intentional design, where elevators are seen as parts of a whole rather than standalone utility systems. Today’s lift designs prioritize openness, softness, and an overall sensory experience.
Bringing Trends to Life with Day Elevator & Lift
At Day Elevator & Lift, a KLEEMANN Company, we fundamentally believe that elevators should do more than just move people between floors. To this point, elevators should enhance the overall experience of a space, providing a solution that is both practical, accessible, and visually stimulating. This is why we focus on helping each client bring their vision to life, translating their ideas into customized lift solutions that align with their architectural goals, performance requirements, accessibility needs, and long-term plans.
About Day Elevator & Lift, a KLEEMANN Company
DAY Elevator & Lift, a KLEEMANN Company, specializes in consulting, designing, and installing elevators, lifts, and a wide range of accessibility products and solutions for both residential and commercial use. As a trusted partner for homeowners, contractors, builders, developers, and architects, we focus on convenience, safety, and full ADA compliance, ensuring seamless integration of our product solutions into a single-family home, a multi-unit community, a commercial building, such as office buildings, airports, stadiums, shopping centers, theatres, museums, and industrial facilities. DAY Elevator & Lift will partner with you through every phase of your project.
By joining forces with KLEEMANN, one of the most important manufacturers in the global market, our list of high-quality services has grown. We are proud to embody KLEEMANN’s renowned commitment to excellence, delivering top-tier products and cutting-edge solutions for both people and freight.
Author
This article was developed with the support of the Day Elevator & Lift team.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute professional engineering advice. Elevator and lift systems are complex machines, and all installations, repairs, and inspections must be performed by a licensed and qualified technician. Always consult a professional to ensure your equipment complies with local building codes and safety requirements.
Your Technical Partner in Modern Design
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the biggest elevator design trends in 2026?
In 2026, the biggest residential and commercial elevator trends include AI integration, voice activation, touchless controls, IoT-enabled predictive maintenance, regenerative drives for energy efficiency, machine-room-less (MRL) systems, and sleek design elements like frameless glass, ambient LED lighting, and biophilic materials. Modern elevators are becoming smarter, more sustainable, and more visually integrated into overall architectural design.
How is AI being used in modern residential and commercial elevators?
AI technology is transforming elevators through:
- Voice-activated floor selection
- Touchless and mobile app controls
- IoT-based real-time monitoring
- Predictive maintenance alerts
- Smart traffic and energy optimization
These features improve accessibility, hygiene, safety, and operational efficiency in both homes and commercial buildings.
Are energy-efficient elevators worth it for homes and businesses?
Yes. Energy-efficient elevators significantly reduce power consumption and long-term operating costs. Features like regenerative drives, LED lighting, smart standby modes, and machine-room-less (MRL) systems help lower utility bills, reduce heat output, and minimize a building’s carbon footprint. Many property owners see measurable savings over time while supporting sustainability goals.
What is a machine-room-less (MRL) elevator, and why is it popular?
A machine-room-less (MRL) elevator eliminates the need for a separate machine room by integrating equipment within the hoistway. MRL systems are popular because they:
- Use less energy
- Save building space
- Reduce installation complexity
- Lower overall carbon footprint
They are especially attractive for residential homes, apartment buildings, and retrofit projects.
Are glass elevators safe for residential and commercial properties?
Yes. Modern glass elevators are built with high-strength, code-compliant safety glass and advanced engineering standards. They provide panoramic views, natural light integration, and a sleek architectural look while meeting strict safety and ADA requirements. Frameless glass designs are particularly popular in 2026 for their clean, contemporary aesthetic.
How do I choose the right elevator design for my building in 2026?
Choosing the right elevator depends on:
- Building type (residential vs. commercial)
- Space availability
- Accessibility and ADA compliance needs
- Security requirements
- Energy efficiency goals
- Desired architectural style
Working with an experienced elevator consultant like Day Elevator & Lift, a KLEEMANN Company, ensures the system aligns with your performance requirements, design vision, and long-term operational plans.