How to design a self storage unit?
We design, manufacture and install self-storage units for both new purpose-built self-storage facilities and for converting existing spaces into self-storage. We’ve been doing this for many years, during which time we’ve learned everything there is to know about maximizing the space available to our clients through smart design, choosing the right materials and making the right choices.
The raw square footage of a space is merely the starting point. The amount of storage that a space ultimately offers (which directly relates to the income the owner can generate from that space) is the result of choices made from the outset of the design process. In addition to maximizing available space, the design and manufacturing options we offer can create a self-storage business that appeals to the widest possible range of clients.
Understand Your Ideal Client Needs
Deciding the number of units in a self-storage site may initially seem to come down to packing in as many as possible, on the assumption that more units means more individual rentals. However, given the market sectors that self-storage is designed to serve, a more diverse approach to unit size may be advisable. A wider mix of sizes will allow a single site to appeal to a wider range of clientele, from people storing personal items such as bicycles to businesses that need to store large volumes of documents while relocating. Our experience in building and designing self-storage units enables us to create a layout that combines the maximum number of unit sizes with the most efficient use of floor space.
In addition to creating multiple combinations of unit sizes, installing smaller lockers in the space above traditional units can also pay off. This approach is particularly attractive if the storage in question is a retrofit in an existing structure where the area above the tops of the storage units would otherwise be wasted. If possible, a second level of storage units should be added to maximize the available space, but if ceiling heights make this impossible and there is no room to install a mezzanine, adding lockers can create rentable space in an area that would otherwise be wasted.
Aisles
Aisles between rows of storage units may seem like wasted space at first glance, but making them wide enough is an important aspect of any self-storage facility. Aisles must be wide enough to allow two-way traffic between units and around the rest of the building, as well as provide adequate loading and unloading space. When creating the detailed design of a self-storage facility, the size of the aisle space will be determined by calculating the expected customer traffic and the size of the individual units being served.
While creating an atmosphere to convince customers to trust you to store their belongings, maintaining logistics for smooth workflow around the building will also involve the strategic use of features such as hallway partitions, corner guards, ceiling screens, and soffit panels. As well as meeting all logistical requirements, our design team will work hard to provide a solution that matches your brand and corporate colour scheme.
Modular Self Storage
When time is of the essence and the solution needs to be fast, flexible and effective, modular self storage units can provide the space you need, where you need it. Independent external self storage units can be combined in a way that maximises the storage space you are able to offer, without the time, expense and permanent investment required to expand existing premises. Customised to the same high standards as all our storage solutions, your modular moving self-storage containers can be designed and manufactured to match your wider corporate branding and available in any size or combination of sizes you require.
Find a complete service - time and resource efficient
When clients work with us, we handle all aspects of design, manufacture and installation. The process typically starts with a survey, particularly if the storage is to be installed within an existing structure. Based on this survey and discussions with the client, we will develop a very detailed plan which, once approved, will form the basis of our manufacture and installation.
Where required, we can provide a solution or work with the client’s own team and existing facilities; we also have the expertise required to create a custom ‘designer’ plan. This level of expertise enables us to make the most of the space we are working with and then ensure that the client gets the most value from the facility we install. If you are interested in this project, please contact us as soon as possible.
