How Claridge’s Strengthened Accessibility and Safety Below Ground with The Stair Climbing Company

The Challenge: Accessibility Three Storeys Below Ground 

Five-star hotel, Claridge’s, completed their remarkable underground expansion, a “Mayfair mega build” that added three new basement levels beneath the historic property. 

However, during construction, a serious issue emerged: there was no safe evacuation route for guests with mobility challenges in the event of a lift failure or emergency. 

For a hotel that prides itself on exceptional guest experience and flawless safety standards, this was a risk that couldn’t be ignored. The facilities team needed a solution that would deliver full accessibility, reliable emergency evacuation, and zero disruption to Claridge’s luxury aesthetic. 

The Solution: The Skyline Stair Climber 

After a detailed on-site assessment, The Stair Climbing Company introduced the Skyline Stair Climber, a state-of-the-art, portable wheelchair carrier designed to move safely and smoothly up and down stairs. 

The company worked closely with Claridge’s facilities and front-of-house teams, providing hands-on training to ensure staff could confidently operate the device during an emergency. The result? A discreet yet powerful accessibility solution ready to perform when it matters most. 

Why the Skyline Stair Climber Was the Perfect Fit 

Emma explains why this particular solution ticked every box for Claridge’s: 

• Accessible – Transforms a place with limited or no access to become fully accessible immediately.   

• Contingency – Offers a backup solution for lift maintenance, failures and emergency evacuation.   

• Discreet and Compact – Easily stored away when not in use, with no need for permanent fixtures or structural changes, essential in a heritage environment. 

• Flexible – Attaches to most wheelchairs and engineered to glide smoothly and quietly on winding stairs, tight turns, steps indoors and outdoors.   

• Portable Across Staircases – Fully transportable, allowing the same unit to be deployed in different parts of the building during lift downtime or emergency scenarios. 

The Impact: Safety and Accessibility Without Compromise 

The introduction of the Skyline Stair Climber has had a transformative effect on both safety and inclusivity at Claridge’s. Guests with mobility challenges can now access all levels of the hotel, even those deep below ground, with complete confidence. 

In the event of a power outage, fire alarm, or lift failure, the facilities team has a reliable evacuation method that protects all guests equally. 

“Beyond convenience, this is about ensuring every person can be evacuated safely in an emergency,” says Emma. “At Claridge’s, the Skyline Stair Climber is not just an accessibility aid, it’s a critical component of their safety plan.” 

A Model for Facilities Managers Everywhere 

For facilities managers, Claridge’s story is a powerful reminder that accessibility and safety are inseparable. The right technology — when thoughtfully integrated and backed by staff training — can bridge the gap between compliance and true care.  Read Emma’s exclusive interview on accessibility at Claridge’s in The Hotel Magazine.

Whether managing a hotel, hospital, or heritage site, the Skyline Stair Climber offers a proven way to enhance both day-to-day accessibility and emergency preparedness, without compromising design or user experience. 

Mobility access solutions and ramp alternatives for Wheelchairs