Commercial Accessibility Made Elegant: Garaventa Lift’s Genesis Shaftway at The Orchards Inn

December 16, 2025 by Tanvi Chawda

Product: Genesis Shaftway Vertical Platform Lift
Installed by: MCI Elevators & Lifts
Location: Sedona, AZ
Installation year: 2025

Elevating Guest Experience in Sedona: A Genesis Shaftway Installation at The Orchards Inn

Set against the iconic red rock landscape of northern Arizona, The Orchards Inn is known for offering guests an immersive Sedona experience, one that blends comfort, thoughtful design, and unforgettable views. As part of the Inn’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, a recent lift installation has quietly but meaningfully enhanced how guests move through the property. Completed by MCI Elevator and Lifts, this project showcases the versatility and performance of the Genesis Shaftway in a commercial hospitality environment.

Project Overview

Hotels and inns face a unique challenge when upgrading accessibility: improvements must be functional, code-compliant, and durable, while also respecting architectural character and guest experience. At The Orchards Inn, the goal was clear – add vertical accessibility that integrates seamlessly with the property’s existing layout and aesthetic, without disrupting operations or detracting from the serene setting Sedona is famous for.

The Genesis Shaftway proved to be an ideal solution. Designed to accommodate both residential and light commercial applications, the system offered the flexibility needed to meet accessibility requirements while maintaining a compact footprint. For a hospitality setting where space, flow, and visual harmony matter, this adaptability was key.

Planning and Coordination in a Commercial Application

One of the standout aspects of this project was the level of coordination required. Working within an active hotel environment means scheduling precision, clear communication, and careful staging. Guest comfort and safety remained a priority throughout the installation, requiring thoughtful planning and efficient execution.

MCI Elevator and Lifts brought extensive experience to the table, coordinating closely with the property team to minimize disruption. From early planning through final commissioning, each phase of the project was handled with attention to detail and respect for the Inn’s day-to-day operations. The result was a smooth, on-time installation that aligned with both operational needs and project timelines.

Product Highlights: Why Genesis Was the Right Fit?

The Genesis Shaftway stands out for its ability to deliver reliable vertical transportation without the complexity often associated with traditional commercial elevators. For The Orchards Inn, several features made a meaningful difference:

The Genesis system integrates the hoistway into its design, reducing the need for extensive construction. This was particularly valuable in a retrofit-style environment where preserving existing structures was essential.
With customizable finishes and a streamlined appearance, the elevator complements the Inn’s understated, natural design palette rather than competing with it.
In hospitality settings, noise matters. The Genesis delivers a comfortable ride that aligns with guest expectations for a calm, relaxing stay.
The installation supports accessibility requirements, helping ensure that guests of varying mobility levels can navigate the property with confidence and independence.

Together, these features allowed the elevator to function as an integrated design element rather than a purely utilitarian addition.

Navigating Site-Specific Challenges

Sedona’s terrain and architecture bring their own set of challenges. Elevation changes, scenic sightlines, and unique building layouts require careful consideration when adding new infrastructure. In this case, the installation needed to work within a defined space while aligning with exterior and interior design constraints.

The Genesis Shaftway’s flexible configuration helped address these challenges. Its adaptable layout allowed the team to position the elevator strategically, ensuring optimal access while preserving views and architectural balance. The result is a solution that feels intentional—enhancing mobility without drawing attention away from the surroundings.

Enhancing the Guest Experience

While elevators are often noticed only when they’re missing, their impact on guest experience is significant. For The Orchards Inn, the new installation supports a more inclusive environment, making it easier for guests with mobility considerations, luggage, or accessibility needs to fully enjoy the property.

This improvement reinforces the Inn’s commitment to hospitality that is both welcoming and forward-thinking. By investing in accessibility, the property not only meets practical requirements but also strengthens its reputation as a destination that values every guest.

A Strong Example of Dealer Expertise

This project is also a testament to the role knowledgeable dealers play in successful installations. MCI Elevator and Lifts demonstrated how technical expertise, planning discipline, and collaboration can transform a complex installation into a seamless outcome. Their work highlights the value dealers bring—not just in product installation, but in problem-solving and project leadership.The Orchards Inn installation illustrates how the Genesis Shaftway continues to perform beyond traditional residential settings. As demand grows for accessible solutions in boutique hotels, inns, and small commercial properties, projects like this serve as a clear example of what’s possible.

By combining thoughtful design, adaptable technology, and experienced execution, this Sedona project delivers more than vertical transportation—it elevates the overall guest experience. And in a destination defined by its ability to inspire, that makes all the difference.