Historic Buildings: The Don CeSar, an Ascension Wheelchair Lift Case Study
Project Summary
- Challenge: Provide ADA-compliant access to a second-story poolside lounge without compromising aesthetics or durability in a harsh coastal environment
- Solution: Ascension Clarity vertical wheelchair lift with custom finishes and outdoor-rated features
- Result: Seamless accessibility that preserves the resort’s iconic design and guest experience
Company Overview
Opened in 1928, the Don CeSar is an iconic luxury resort located on the white sands of Florida’s Saint Petersburg Beach. Known for its rich history, elegant architecture, and high-end guest experience, the Don CeSar has hosted generations of travelers– from celebrities and dignitaries to families seeking a premier beachfront escape. Preserving both accessibility and visual appeal is central to the resort’s commitment to inclusive luxury.
Challenge
As part of a poolside renovation, the Don CeSar needed to provide ADA-compliant access to a second-story lounge overlooking the resort’s main pool. The challenge extended beyond functionality: any accessibility solution had to align with the hotel’s polished aesthetic, integrate seamlessly into the outdoor environment, and withstand Florida’s demanding coastal conditions.
Standard accessibility solutions would detract from the visual experience that defines the Don CeSar brand. Additionally, the proximity to the pool and the Atlantic Ocean called for a solution engineered for long-term outdoor durability, corrosion resistance, and guest safety.
Solution
After evaluating available options, the design team selected Ascension’s Clarity vertical platform lift. With a travel height of up to 14 feet, the Clarity was well suited to provide second-story access while maintaining a clean, modern appearance. To meet the Don CeSar’s specific needs, several custom and enhanced features were incorporated:
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- Custom paint color: The lift was finished in a metallic silver to reflect heat, minimize visual contrast, and ensure the focus remained on the surrounding resort environment.
- Fully windowed enclosure: Extensive glazing reduced visual intrusion while allowing lift users to enjoy unobstructed views of the resort and pool area.
- Outdoor use package: A zinc-rich primer, additional platform sealing, stainless steel components, and outdoor-rated hydraulic fluid protect the lift from corrosion, humidity, and salt exposure.
- Two-way communication: A hands-free, pre-programmed telephone system and large emergency stop button ensure immediate communication and safety for lift users.
Ascension worked closely with the Don CeSar team to deliver a solution that balanced accessibility, resilience, and refined design.
Results
The installation of the custom Ascension Clarity lift successfully delivered ADA-compliant access to the Don CeSar’s second-story poolside lounge without compromising the resort’s visual identity. Guests now enjoy seamless, inclusive access to one of the hotel’s premier amenities, supported by reliable safety features and durable outdoor engineering.
The solution reinforced the Don CeSar’s commitment to thoughtful luxury—where accessibility is integrated naturally into the guest experience rather than appearing as an afterthought. The resort gained a long-term, low-visual-impact accessibility solution that performs reliably in a demanding coastal environment while upholding the brand’s high design standards.