Creating better self storage space
Helensvale, Australia (PRWEB UK) 18 September 2014 -- Designed and constructed by Steel Storage the new four storey self storage facility has utilised Steel Storages years of experience in consulting, constructing and running self storage facilities around the world plus its known ability to provide innovative self storage solutions.
When the facility was in design phase Steel Storage wanted to improve upon the traditional facility in four key areas. Reduce the on-going operational costs, provide an appealing design; improve the facilities customer experience and maximise the lettable area.
The four level facility was designed to maximise the plot area for self storage space. Steel Storage produced an innovative design that utilised the whole plot area and didn’t waste potential lettable space by designing and constructing a drive thru in the middle of the facility. This enabled the building to be built to the edges of the plot plus removed the wasted area that is seen in traditional loading bays of self storage facilities. With fast lifts, positioned in optimal positions each customer is able to quickly get to their unit no matter where in the facility it is. This enables the operator to charge higher rates and achieve quicker occupancy levels. Trolley bays were customised to those that the facility would use ensuring a clean facility whilst not wasting space.
Reduction of operational costs was achieved through use of a number of innovative solutions. Steel Storage used mechanical ventilation with whirly birds in the roof reducing the facilities electricity costs, installed solar panels into the roof to provide its own energy and to guard against future price rises. Steel Storage also installed an INSOMNIAC™ automated check-in. The INSOMNIAC™ self service kiosk allows self storage facilities to have the capability to rent units, take payments and issue contracts 24/7. The INSOMNIAC™ check-in delivers both a better customer experience by allowing customers to check-in all year round meaning a booking will never be missed as well as reducing operational costs by removing the need for additional staff.
During all design and construction process Steel Storage considers the end user of the facility and how their experience could be improved. At Helensvale within the retail area of the facility, which was designed as a wide open space for better ambience, a Wi-Fi and hot desk were installed for the facility customers and a display unit to help guide customers on their unit size selection. A wash tub was also installed by the unloading area so the customers’ could clean their hands. Loading trolleys were positioned by escalators for ease of use and two types of trolleys were used, inter-stackable trolleys that reduced space and double-decker trolleys, which allowed more items to be moved per trip.
The design of facility had to be both striking to attract interest and generate awareness from the passing traffic whilst being in keeping with the local area. High visibility windows were used to help showcase the facility offering whilst horizontal and colour cladding added to the design look. Black concrete rather than standard was used to ensure the ground always looked new and installation of charcoal soffits in the drive thru added to the design appeal.
Working with PTI Security Australasia, who are also the authorised distributor for the range of INSOMNIAC™ self serve kiosks through-out Australia, South East Asia and the Middle East, Steel Storage installed a sophisticated access control systems that utilised smart phone apps. The StorLogix mobile app has allowed the operator to remotely control doors and suspend access whilst the customer can utilise the EasyCode app to access the facility, removing the need to remember long numbers. The facility also has all units individually alarmed and high resolution camera with longer footage recall.
Colin Jeromson, CEO Steel Storage Group commented
”Steel Storage is proud to have been the partner of choice for the Helensvale project. This new self storage facility is a testament to the companies’ ability to drive innovation in self storage.
This project has enabled us to utilise our years of experience and knowledge in designing, constructing and operating self storage facilities around the world and our aim when we design and construct a self storage facility is to create real value for all stakeholders. We create innovative solutions that reduce operational costs, maximise yield and deliver the best customer experience. By focusing on these, it enables the facility to deliver its targeted return on investment. The result of this development process can be seen with the Helensvale facility which is a world class facility that provides a blueprint for future self storage builds.”
Ben Davies, Steel Storage Holdings, http://www.steelstorage.net, +44 7551155640, [email protected]
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