5 Clever Storage Solutions for Open-Plan Offices
Open-plan offices are becomingly increasingly popular, and with good reason. They’re flexible, they encourage communication, and they can often be more cost-effective than private offices. However, one area in which they can struggle is storage. Given their large, open design, it can be tricky to discreetly tuck away a storage cabinet or bookcase in a way that doesn’t appear obtrusive.
What’s needed then is a clever open-plan storage solution: something that helps to maintain organisation, reduce clutter, and promotes productivity, all without sacrificing the overall aesthetic. Here are five innovative workplace storage solutions ideal for open-plan offices.
Versatile Bookcases & Cupbords
Integrating versatile bookcases and cupboards in an open-plan office maximises storage efficiency whilst still maintaining a cohesive and stylish environment. It just comes down to how these units are positioned.
First of all, there’s no denying that bookcases and cupboards provide ample office storage space. What’s impressive, however, is that they can also help in organising and dividing the office layout. Often situated along walls, a simple solution is to use these units instead as room dividers. This creates individual zones with an open-place office, while simultaneously answering storage needs.
One of the benefits of bookcases and cupboards is that they have adjustable shelves and so can easily accommodate different books. Of course, it’s not just books that can be displayed but other items too, such us plants, artwork, and frames. Likewise, cupboards can be a good option when it comes to protecting important documents and personal belongings. The use of cupboards can help keep the office tidy by storing items that are not needed daily but still need to be easily accessible.
Modular Storage Units
Modular Storage Units can be customized to fit any space and reconfigured as needed. One key benefit is their flexibility in design and use, as they can be expanded or reduced according to changing needs. For instance, this would include both lockers and cubic shelving units. And as with bookcases and cupboards, this flexibility makes them perfect to create semi-private areas with an open-plan office space.
Cube storage has become increasingly popular in recent years as each cube can be populated with items such as books, plants, ornaments, and company awards. The best part of using cube storage is being able to build upwards or sideways, with options for larger gaps – sometimes referred to as ‘voids’ – to allow for feature items such as TV screens or pictures.
Lockers are another excellent modular storage solution for open-plan offices, providing secure and personal storage for employees. Modern lockers come in a variety of configurations and styles to fit the aesthetic and functional needs of contemporary offices, and they can go a long way to helping maintain a clean, efficient, and dynamic workspace.
Under Desk Storage
In the realms of workspace organisation, under desk storage is a hidden gem. Often overlooked, the space beneath a desk holds untapped potential for enhancing efficiency and tidiness. This is a practical storage solution for open-plan offices, especially as many units can be easily moved and reconfigured to meet changing needs.
Office pedestals are a similar solution. These are separate units from the desk, providing extra space for stationary items and documents. Usually, they have either two or three drawers with the shallower top drawers storing stationary items and the lower drawers for filing documents.
When choosing your under desk storage solution, measure the space available and ensure that employees can still sit comfortably. Decide if you need the unit to be mobile or fixed, and select quality and designs that complement the overall office décor.
Built-in solutions
When looking for the right type of desk for your office – and especially when considering storage solutions for open-plan offices – you want to make sure that not only does it have enough desktop space, but also that there are drawers available. This will make it simple and easy to keep a clean workstation, enabling employees to focus on the task at hand and also allowing space to be quickly cleared when staff or clients visit.
Another reason why it’s a good idea to have drawers incorporated into your desk is that you will be able to easily access paperwork or manuals without having to get up from a seated position. Having everything at your fingertips allows you to work smoothly and will generally save you time throughout your working day.
Multi-Purpose Furniture
Multi-purpose furniture serves dual purposes, often combining seating with hidden storage compartments. Helpfully, this will often reduce the need for additional furniture pieces.
AT BT Office, we’ve created bespoke multi-purpose office storage solutions called office meeting points. These are a combination of storage units and large meeting tops and are ideal for open-plan offices where occasional meeting space is required. The storage below can be configured to suit with the surface tops, and everything is made to order in any size or shape required.
Open-Plan Office Storage Solutions at BT Office Furniture
Creative storage solutions are the key to maintaining an organised, productive, and collaborative workspace. From modular storage units and smart desk solutions to mobile storage, we have many years’ experience in designing great office spaces at BT Office.
Get in touch today and explore our full range of office storage solutions online. You can also reach us by emailing [email protected] or by calling 0800 298 7033.