Joachim Burgard (founder of the Elevator Museum Warsaw), Tadeusz Popielas (Secretary-General of the Polish Association of Lift Manufacturers – PSPD), Adam Puklański (Project Manager at LiftExpo Poland), Marta Majkowska (Communications) and Tomasz Kowalski (Board Member of the Fundacja Elevator Museum Warsaw) (from left to right). (Photo: © Przemek Bocian)
August 2026
Why does the lift industry talk almost exclusively about technology, standards and innovations, but so rarely about the stories behind them? This question was the spark that led to the founding of the “Elevator Museum Warsaw”.
Lifts are among the most significant inventions in modern urban development. They have revolutionised architecture, made skyscrapers possible in the first place, and today shape the lives of billions of people. Yet for most people, they remain virtually invisible. And why does the lift industry tell so little about its history and so few stories?
It is precisely here that industrial engineer Joachim Burgard sees a major opportunity for the industry: "Modern museums tell stories, stir emotions and create experiences. This storytelling approach could strengthen the image of the lift industry and, in particular, inspire young people to take an interest in technology, engineering and innovation."
It was this conviction that gave rise to Burgard’s idea for the Elevator Museum Warsaw as a modern storytelling museum. The focus will be on the people, ideas and innovations behind vertical mobility. Visitors will learn how lifts have transformed cities and why they are far more than mere technology. This will be conveyed in the museum through lighting, design, original artefacts and multimedia displays.
According to Burgard, who worked for TK Elevator for almost 17 years, it is no coincidence that the museum is being established in Warsaw: "The Polish capital is now one of the most dynamic high-rise locations in Europe. The impressive development of its skyline over the past two decades makes Warsaw an ideal place to tell the story of vertical mobility whilst also looking towards its future."
The search for a suitable property was a long one. Burgard, who has lived in Warsaw for almost ten years, spent nearly three years looking. In July 2026, the decision was finally made to choose a location at Grzybowska 61 – right in the heart of a modern Warsaw office district. The home of the Elevator Museum Warsaw is currently taking shape here across an area of around 220 m².
Before the museum opens its doors, the first phase of the "Ponad" project will get under way. Initially, it is intended to provide a space for meetings, networking, talks, workshops and temporary art exhibitions. The second phase will follow in mid-2027: the permanent exhibition is set to open.
The museum is intended to be more than just an exhibition of lifts; it will bring together art, culture, gastronomy and industry – a combination that Burgard considers unique. During the day there will be a café, and in the evenings a bar offering tastings of non-alcoholic cocktails.
LiftExpo Poland 2026, taking place from 20 to 22 October, is set to be an important milestone. The new project will be presented at the trade fair, and the museum will have its own stand, says Burgard: "I would like to extend my special thanks to the organisers of LiftExpo, in particular Adam Puklański, as well as Tadeusz Popielas, Secretary-General of the Polish Association of Lift Manufacturers (PSPD), for their support of the project."
The Elevator Museum Warsaw has so far been funded entirely privately by Burgard. He has set up a charitable foundation for this purpose and is currently seeking supporters. "I invite all companies, institutions and the entire lift industry to get involved with this new museum."
More informations: elevatormuseum.pl
Digitalpaper
Write a comment