These Are the Most Important Self-Storage Design Layout Factors

Before we delve into different self-storage designs, let’s cover the basics. Self-storage units are spaces rented by individuals, usually short-term, to store their possessions. So why are they so attractive to investors?

Self-storage units are a safe and reliable investment. They’re recession-proof and had a higher return on investment than any other type of real estate from 2009 to 2018.

They’re also popular due to the minimal involvement of the owner once they are leased. Unlike commercial, retail or residential, you won’t have to make regular repairs or deal with tenants.

Because this industry is so attractive to investors, you might struggle to find existing storage units on the market. If you decide to build your units from scratch, the self-storage layouts will make a difference. Make sure you’re getting it right with these design tips.

Do Your Research

There’s a lot to learn about investing in self-storage and self-storage layouts are no different. Like any major building project, ensuring that your building plans are legally sound is a priority. Find out the building standards for your region and ensure that your design adheres to these rules.

These will vary regionally and are often quite specific, so ensure that you do some extensive research. It’s also a good idea to find out how other storage units in your area are designed. This will give you a good idea of the types of storage units that are in high demand in your area.

Hiring the right professional architectural and building services is a good place to start. A trusted professional will do all the right research to ensure your units are designed to meet the legal requirements.

Types of Self-Storage: The Broader Layout

Now you’ll need to look into the broad layout of your units. This will depend on the area you’re constructing your units in. More suburban areas will likely allow for a more spacious development, while urban areas will probably be tighter on space and have to be built up

These two broad types of storage units already give us clues as to what design elements will be essential for their functioning. The key here is to think about accessibility.

If your storage units are more sprawled and less stacked, it might be a good idea to design them so that it’s easy for cars and moving trucks to reach individual units. If your units are stacked, accessibility is also important. Large elevator spaces accessible directly from parking lots are probably your best bet.

Different Self Storage Designs: Finding the Right Unit Mix

The more detailed design requirements start to apply when it comes down to the units themselves. Not all of your storage units will be the same. Their sizes and design elements will be determined by the area in which they’re built.

Suburban and rural storage units tend to be much larger in size and easily accessible by car. This is because these units are more often used to store things like outdoor equipment or machinery. Urban storage units may contain a mix of smaller to medium-sized units for furniture and other household items.

Self-Storage Design Layout: A Need’s Based Approach

Self-storage can be a great investment, particularly when your units are designed right. Self-storage design layout is entirely dependent on the area in which your units are located.

If you’re looking for a solid, reliable investment opportunity, the self-storage industry might just be the right choice for you. If you’re looking for more info, guidance and advice on self-storage investments, get in touch today!