Creative Usage for Storage Units

A storage unit is usually seen as just additional storage space to store things that will not fit in your home.

Over the years, people have come up with much more creative and functional ways to utilise that space instead of just boxes and furniture.

If you can picture it, you may be able to transform your storage unit into something much more beneficial than just a dusty off-site box.

Art Studios, Workshops and Hobby Rooms

Many artists have discovered they can use a storage unit as a workshop or art studio. Instead of stacking paints, canvases, woodworking tools or sculpture supplies in your house, you can use a unit as a dedicated spot to store your belongings.

With adequate ventilation and lighting, a unit can be used for painting, pottery, or small woodwork. Just ensure your storage unit allows working inside the unit and that any supplies brought in comply with the guidelines.

Music, Rehearsal or Recording Spaces

Finding somewhere to practice without angry neighbours is always a pain for the musician or band.

Some have even turned part of their storage unit into a mini rehearsal space and recording booth! Soundproofing panels, area rugs and basic insulation are added to help muffle sound and practice guilt-free- assuming the facility doesn’t mind noise! With self storage, you can keep your items secure inside, minus the hassle of lugging them back and forth each day.

Business Storage, Inventory and Side Hustles

Many small businesses, vendors and side hustlers utilize storage units not only for storage of inventory, but to operate as distribution centers or dedicated office space. It can be useful to have extra space to organize, package and ship products from if you don’t have room at home, while saving you time.

Coffee roasters as well as online retailers, craft makers and vendors can utilise a self storage unit as part of the way they operate, for some, it's the perfect solution that can keep you free from distractions.

Event Prep, Pop-Up Space, and Showrooms

Storage units can be utilised for event prep, pop-up shows, and displays. If you are planning for a wedding, expo or fair, you can keep props, decor, a temporary stage, lights, and sound equipment in a unit, even laying them out ahead for visualisation of setup.

Some people use their self storage unit for a pop-up showroom or gallery so they don’t have to pay full rent for a space to display their items.

Fitness Rooms or Home Gyms

Many homes do not have a spot for a treadmill, weights or other fitness equipment.

A storage unit can be the perfect place and it works for this too, if you find a larger unit with flat, solid floors and enough ceiling space. You can add in rubber flooring, mirrors, a fan, and maybe some wall racks for weights.

Make sure you use climate control to address humidity or damp issues. Check with the facility that will allow you to exercise in there, especially if you are sharing walls with others.

Libraries, Archives and Collections

For book lovers, collectors, archivists, or simply anyone who has a collection, storage units can become an offsite library.

You might rent a climate controlled unit for rare books, comics, photos, memorabilia, or archival materials. Since many homes do not provide space or the proper environment, a self storage unit under proper control is a safe, stable alternative to letting your collection deteriorate.

Car, Motorcycle, or Classic Vehicle Restoration Projects

Car, motorcycle, and/or classic vehicle enthusiasts may have expanded beyond what their garage can hold. Some units are large enough to hold vehicles, hobby restorations, or parts storage.

You can do engine work, rebuild bikes, and store spare parts and tools in a clean, secure environment.

Larger self storage facilities may have ease of access for manoeuvring a vehicle and make this much easier.

Things to consider before using a unit creatively

Not all self storage facilities would allow you use their unit as a studio, workshop, or home gym.

Some do not allow you to conduct commercial activities from them so it's always worth checking the terms and service agreement of your dedicated space.

Always check your agreement for clauses on noise, hours of operation, materials, and insurance.

Examine lighting, ventilation, and fire safety if you are going to be using your unit for anything other than storage solutions.

If you are planning to be doing anything inside, rather than storing items, consult with your storage facility in writing to discuss. This way you will avoid unwelcome surprises down the road.