Panoramic glass lift latest addition to iconic Burnley 'landmark'

Clitheroe-based specialists Axess 2 were brought in to carry out the work at The Landmark in Burnley, which is home to a community of businesses in the town.

The new development at The Landmark, which offers shared office space for businesses, will create an event venue in the oldest part of the building, which dates back to 1870.

Liz Wilkinson, general manager at The Landmark, said: “Phase one of The Landmark opened in February 2018 with the launch of our Business Club, which offers a flexible coworking space for businesses, as well as private office space, meeting and conference rooms.

“Phase two is the creation of a multi-purpose venue to host events such as weddings and conferences, which is due to open later this year.

“As The Landmark is Grade-II listed, any work done to it must be in keeping with the original building. The external glass lift ticked those boxes by blending seamlessly into the Gothic architecture of the building.”

The uninterrupted glass panels on the exterior sides of the passenger lift give an unobstructed view of the town centre landscape, with bespoke LED lighting inside adding an extra wow factor.

Nathan Massey, from Axess 2, said The Landmark was an exciting project and the company enjoyed bringing its design solution experience to the scheme to ensure the lift was consistent with its surroundings.

He said: “It was important that the addition of the lift was in keeping with the building, and the glass exterior and minimal steel certainly achieve that. Inside the lift is spacious and airy, while the glass panels make the most of the views from The Landmark.

“We work closely with all our clients to ensure that they receive a bespoke service which suits their requirements. In this case, we were able to deliver a contemporary, practical solution to provide access from ground level to the first floor of this iconic building.”

Formerly Burnley Grammar School, The Landmark on School Lane was transformed into a flexible, contemporary space for small businesses and entrepreneurs by Burnley businessman Mark Crabtree OBE, who founded Oscar-winning audio giant AMS Neve.

The Landmark offers high-quality, affordable office space, flexible coworking memberships and pay-as-you-go hot desking options as part of its Business Club. Members also have access to meeting rooms, conference facilities and a fully-licenced cafe-bar.

It is open for business during lockdown because many of its tenants and members cannot work from home.