Maximizing Space & Design Flexibility

In modern building design, every square foot matters. That’s why architects, developers, and building owners turn to KONE’s machine room-less (MRL) traction elevators. By eliminating the need for a separate machine room, they free up valuable space while offering flexible installation options and seamless performance. A smarter, more efficient way to move people—without compromising design.

Traditional elevators—especially hydraulic systems—require a separate machine room to house essential equipment. This not only takes up valuable real estate but can also limit design flexibility.

With KONE MRL traction elevators, the motor and control system are seamlessly integrated into the elevator shaft itself, eliminating the need for a dedicated machine room. Key benefits include:

• More Usable Floor Space: Without a machine room, architects and developers can free up space for additional rentable areas, amenities, or storage.
• Smaller Building Footprint: In smaller buildings or renovations, removing the machine room requirement can help reduce construction costs and complexity.
• Improved Aesthetics: No visible machine room structure on the roof or elsewhere allows for cleaner, more modern building designs.

Hydraulic elevators require large pistons, deep pits, and extensive structural modifications, which can limit where they can be installed. KONE MRL traction elevators, however, provide greater installation flexibility, making them suitable for a wide range of projects:

• New Constructions: In new buildings, MRL traction elevators allow architects to design without being constrained by a machine room, offering more freedom for residential, commercial, or mixed-use developments.
• Building Modernizations & Retrofits: In existing buildings without elevators or those in need of an upgrade, KONE MRL traction elevators can be installed in tighter spaces without requiring major structural modifications, making them ideal for modernization projects.

Hydraulic elevators often require deep pits and heavy underground cylinders, which can add significant construction costs and limit site feasibility. KONE MRL traction elevators require shallower pits, making them a more viable solution for:

• Historic Buildings: Many older buildings cannot accommodate deep pits. MRL traction elevators provide an alternative that minimizes structural changes.
• High Water Table Areas: In locations where deep excavation is problematic due to groundwater levels, MRL traction elevators offer a practical and cost-effective alternative.
• Seismic Considerations: Hydraulic systems with underground cylinders can be vulnerable in earthquake-prone regions. MRL traction elevators provide a more stable, surface-level installation option.

Beyond space savings, KONE MRL traction elevators support sustainability initiatives by reducing the need for excess materials and resource-heavy construction. Key environmental benefits include:

• Lower Material Usage: No separate machine room means fewer construction materials and less waste.
• Energy Efficiency: MRL traction elevators operate with high-efficiency gearless motors, which may consume less energy than hydraulic pumps.
• No Hydraulic Fluid Required: Unlike hydraulic elevators that require oil-based fluids, which may pose environmental risks, KONE MRL traction elevators eliminate this concern entirely.

For building owners and architects looking to optimize space and enhance design flexibility, KONE MRL traction elevators provide a smarter alternative to traditional hydraulic systems. By eliminating the need for a machine room, offering versatile installation options, and simplifying construction, these elevators allow for more efficient and creative building designs.

Whether designing a new high-rise, retrofitting an older building, or simply seeking a modern elevator solution, KONE MRL traction elevators strike the perfect balance between space efficiency, sustainability, and performance.

Looking to maximize space in your next building project? Contact KONE today to explore how our machine room-less traction elevators can support your design and sustainability goals.

^{The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute a guarantee of performance, suitability, or results. Benefits and outcomes may vary depending on building specifications, operational conditions, and other factors. Property owners and developers should consult with qualified professionals to assess the specific requirements and feasibility of any elevator modernization or installation project.}