One Small Parts Storage Design, One Giant Space Saving

Thistle Systems has used all its expertise in effective space planning to help one client to release over 60 sq m by halving the floor space used for storing small parts whilst increasing the number of storage locations by 30%.

Thistle's brief was to take an existing small parts storage shelving installation from one location and relocate it into another existing store to enable the client to release space for other purposes. However with a much tighter area to work with, Thistle had to be extremely creative with their design solution to maximise the storage capacity within the given area.

Project Manager, Mike Rose, explained "We took an existing, traditional storage solution which covered a floor area of over 120sq m and by careful analysis of the items stored, the quantities required and the solutions available, made the workspace work. "

He continued, "Simply by re-designing the layout we instantly reduced the floor area required to 98 sq m. But we then set about using the space within each bay more effectively to reduce the floor space required to just 60 sq m - under half that of the original layout."

In this instance, Thistle high density storage solution offered over 30% more locations storing no fewer than 3600 different items.

The increase in locations and space saving was achieved through using a single tier shelving solution and didn't require mezzanines or upper levels which would have meant seeking approvals with building regulations or a building warrant.

Mike concluded, "This highly effective solution released valuable space which could be used for office accommodation, production or sub letting. We have also carried out similar projects where clients have used the additional space we have create to consolidate a number of existing premises."