Tier-2 Takes Off: The Rise of Home Elevators in Aspirational India

In an email interaction with Homes India magazine, Vimal Babu, Founder and CEO  - Nibav Home Lifts, highlights rapidly growing trend that is transforming modern living in India’s Tier-2 cities — the increasing demand for home elevators, driven by rising aspirations, enhanced accessibility, and a redefined sense of comfort and convenience.

Vimal is recognized for driving cross-country growth through innovative vertical mobility solutions developed for today’s residential properties. With a focus on technology-based design and accessibility, he advocates for smaller, energy-efficient elevators to transform comfort and convenience at home.

What key factors are driving the growing demand for home elevators in Tier-2 cities across India?

The rising interest in home elevator stems from a blend of urban expansion, demographic shifts, and technological innovation. With Tier-2 cities witnessing a surge in high-rise residences, duplexes, and premium villas, there’s a growing need for vertical mobility solutions. Increasing disposable incomes, multigenerational living, and an aging population are also pushing families to prioritize comfort and accessibility. Additionally, modern elevators that are compact, easy to install, and energy-efficient elevators have made ownership more feasible for middle-income households. Localized production and customized offerings by manufacturers have further made home elevators attractive and affordable in these markets.

How has consumer perception shifted from viewing elevators as luxury features to functional necessities?

Home elevators, once perceived as a luxury, are now seen as smart elevators, essential for future-proof living—especially in homes with elderly members or mobility-impaired individuals. The shift is driven by a growing focus on convenience, safety, and inclusivity. Features of predictive maintenance elevators such as emergency rescue systems, low power consumption, and child-safe operations have made elevators a logical addition in modern homes. The mindset has evolved from indulgence to practicality, with buyers increasingly asking how soon they can install one rather than if they need it.

Also Read: Elevator Trends in Residential Living: Enhancing Home Comfort & Convenience

What role do you see industry collaboration playing between manufacturers, developers, and policymakers in making home elevators more mainstream in India’s aspirational markets?

Collaborative efforts are vital in building a cohesive ecosystem for elevator adoption. When manufacturers work alongside developers, elevators can be integrated into the home’s architectural plan from the beginning, resulting in better aesthetics, cost savings, and structural efficiency. On the regulatory side, aligning with government bodies and codes such as the BIS and Lifts & Escalators Acts helps ensure safety, quality, and standardization across markets. At NIBAV, we actively participate in industry forums to stay ahead of compliance and consumer expectations. These partnerships help normalize home elevators as core infrastructure rather than optional features.

How are market players addressing the unique space, design, and budget constraints typically found in Tier-2 urban housing?

Space and cost constraints are addressed through compact elevator solutions, pitless, and machine-room-less elevator designs—many of which can be installed in as little as 0.5 to 1 m². Self-supporting systems like pneumatic or screw-driven lifts require minimal civil work and can be installed in just 24 to 48 hours in retrofit cases. These models use lightweight materials, are energy-efficient, and operate with minimal noise. They’re also customizable in terms of size, finish, and controls—allowing them to blend seamlessly into varied interior styles while staying within budget.

Also Read: Top 10 Budget-Friendly Home Renovation Ideas for Indian Homeowners

What innovations in elevator technology are making home elevators more accessible to mid-segment buyers?

New-age elevators leverage screw-nut or pneumatic technology, removing the need for bulky engine rooms or deep pits. This not only reduces installation time but also makes them ideal for compact homes. Energy-efficient motors, low maintenance needs, and smart features like touchscreen displays or voice-enabled controls enhance functionality without inflating costs. Modular cabins, stylish finishes, and adaptive safety mechanisms further add to the appeal—making elevators viable for middle-income families who seek both performance and aesthetics.

As the market matures, what’s your strategy for staying ahead of the competition in the Tier-2 segment while maintaining premium brand positioning?

At NIBAV, our strategy is rooted in innovation, strategic alignment, and customer-centricity. We constantly evolve our products, with our Series 4 lifts featuring LIDAR-assisted landings, AI-enabled cabin displays, and modern LOP panels. We also work closely with architects, developers, and compliance bodies to ensure seamless integration and regulatory alignment. What sets us apart is our ability to offer compact, customizable elevators with premium design sensibilities—ensuring we meet the aspirations of Tier-2 buyers without compromising on quality or brand positioning. It’s this balance of value and premium experience that keeps us ahead in a competitive landscape.