Shelving for a room: features and varieties (119 photos)

Issues discussed in the material:

• Where are prefabricated metal racks used?
• What types of prefabricated metal shelving are there?
• How to install prefabricated metal shelving

There are situations when there is not enough space in the warehouse to store goods. Or the garage is not spacious enough to fit all the necessary things. At the same time, you need not only to carefully arrange objects in order, but also to save useful space. And this is where prefabricated metal shelving can come to the rescue. What types of such structures there are and how easy they are to install will be discussed later in the article.

Varieties

Having everything at hand and finding the necessary items without interrupting the cooking process is what every housewife dreams of. Forgotten trends are returning and you can increasingly see shelving in the original kitchen interior.

A rational and practical solution in the form of shelves, shelves and drawers allows you to intelligently use every centimeter of free space. The type of rack is selected depending on the purpose and overall style of the kitchen.

Metal, plastic, and wooden shelving will allow you to ergonomically and harmoniously organize space in the kitchen

You can emphasize the style of the kitchen with the help of shelving made from different materials. The laconic and simple shapes of the shelves are ideal for decorating a high-tech kitchen. Provence requires more intricate forms, and wood carving is suitable for classical and Victorian styles. A metal shelving unit will fit well into a kitchen interior in a modern or techno style. Stainless steel structures are installed in modern premises.

The most popular shelving options:

Built-in. Built-in shelving allows you to save space in the kitchen; they fit harmoniously into the interior. Furniture of this type accommodates a large number of equipment and items. This is an excellent option for creating a unified stylish space and ergonomic storage of kitchen utensils, dishes and other equally useful things.

Basically, such furniture is made to order, carefully calculating every centimeter of the surface.

There are several types of built-in shelving:

• Built into a niche. Allows you to use unused kitchen space. Closed built-in shelving functions as a pantry; structures with open shelves mainly serve to display decor and provide visual aesthetic pleasure.
• Shelving above doorways. This option is most preferable for small-sized kitchens, in which every centimeter of usable space counts. The only drawback is the height of the shelves above the doorway - you will need a stepladder to get the right thing.
• Designs built into the kitchen island. A very convenient option for placing dishes and other kitchen utensils. It is very convenient and comfortable for the housewife to be in the kitchen; this is exactly the case when everything is at hand and nothing gets in the way. In the rack you can place baskets with small kitchen items, dishes, household appliances, while saving a lot of space.

Built-in shelving looks good in both large and compact kitchens

Dividing space in the kitchen. Such racks are used as partitions for zoning a room. A studio apartment is an ideal option for placing wall and floor shelving; they divide the kitchen into dining and living areas.

An original solution for separating work and dining areas is to install a shelving unit

Mobile. The main key feature of a movable piece of furniture is its mobility. At any time, the cabinet with shelves can be moved and free up the necessary space, for example, before guests arrive. The racks are equipped with movable wheels; such models are built into furniture and used as a minibar for bottles of wine.

The small wooden rack has convenient wheels, making it easier to transport if necessary.

Angular. In addition to saving square meters of space, a corner shelving unit can bring coziness and comfort to it. Corner models are almost always ordered simultaneously with other furniture, all this is done to create a single stylistic direction.

The most spacious option is a corner rack

Original ideas. The creativity of the craftsmen will be appreciated by lovers of non-standard solutions. Shelving made from improvised materials can become a real designer find.

To create a piece of furniture, they use old unnecessary things, after giving them the desired look and shape:

• Ladder. An old ladder, repainted in a suitable color, can serve as a shelving unit. The only condition is that the steps of the stepladder should not be too narrow.
• Wooden boxes. Old vegetable boxes will ideally replace niches. To enhance the effect, the boxes can be repainted, decorated with an original flower arrangement, and porcelain dishes and other beautiful dishes can be placed.
• Bookshelf. An old unnecessary cabinet can be converted into a shelving unit. Here it won’t hurt to use your imagination and create an original design that will save kitchen space and add color to the room.

If you file the corners of the legs and process the wood, you can turn a stepladder or ladder into an elegant shelving unit

The choice of interesting solutions is huge; when thinking about arranging a kitchen, you can always look through the pages of fashion catalogues, look at photos of shelving and choose the most preferable option.

Types of Prefabricated Metal Shelving

There are a large number of different types of metal prefabricated racks: archival, household, deep pallet, front pallet, pallet-shelf, etc. Let’s look at each type in more detail.

In large supermarkets, a huge assortment of goods is always presented on the shelves so that the buyer can choose exactly what he needs. In archives and warehouses, racks are loaded with voluminous folders with documents, luggage, heavy parts and other cargo.

To support the impressive weight, warehouse metal prefabricated racks must be very durable. The consumer is not always free to navigate the whole variety of models, and it can be difficult for him to choose the right design from the whole variety of products.

When purchasing a rack, experts recommend paying attention to the following points:

• The design must have a reserve for additional loads.
• Preference should be given to racks that save space, for example, multi-tier ones - they are the most efficient in operation.
• When purchasing a shelving unit, you should pay attention not only to its quality, but also to the rationality of the model.
• It is better to choose designs with galvanized shelves and racks - the practicality and durability of the rack depends on this.
• Mobility and the ability to move quickly are also important characteristics. Here you need to pay attention to how the parts are fastened together with bolts and hooks.
• A good rack should have the ability to change the internal configuration.

In order not to make a mistake in choosing the right product, you need to pay attention to all the details and characteristics, because the purchase will determine how well the items or goods will be stored.

The division of the entire variety of racks into certain types depends on their properties and design features. The most common type is collapsible racks. As a rule, they are made of steel and are therefore very strong, stable and durable.

• Archival.

Shelves of such designs are designed for storing light cargo: documents, books, office equipment, stationery, etc. They can often be found in libraries. The pass-through design provides easy access to items on the shelves from both sides.

Archival shelf racks are the most versatile type. They are easy to install and you can change the location of the shelves. From the structures you can assemble both a simple line and a complex front for warehouses, offices or supermarkets.

No special skills are required to install such racks. The design is very simple. It consists of racks and shelves that are attached to each other with bolts. Archival racks are small in size - this ensures their functionality and mobility.

Among other things, racks can be equipped with side and rear stops and a variety of holders for folders and books.

Archival metal prefabricated shelving most often has the following characteristics:

• structure height up to 2,000 mm – any size is possible to order;
• shelf length up to 1,800 mm;
• shelf depth up to 600 mm;
• shelf load up to 120 kg.

The advantages of archival shelving include:

• versatility - they are suitable for almost any room;
• simple installation/disassembly;
• sustainability;
• easy transportation due to the light weight of the structure and convenient packaging;
• You can change the location of the shelves.

Among the disadvantages, the following points stand out:

• sharp edges on galvanized racks;
• flat floor for installation.

• Household.

Such racks are designed for storing various things: books, clothes, jars of pickles, spare parts for a car, sports or garden equipment, etc. They are most often installed in pantries, dressing rooms, as well as in utility rooms, offices or warehouses. Sometimes used as a display window in stores. If you need a metal prefabricated rack for the garage, then a household one is the most suitable option.

The design consists of supports and shelves, takes up little space, but allows you to store a large number of things. The shelves can support up to 120 kg of weight. Additional dividers and drawers allow you to significantly change the design.

Household shelving is most often made of metal and coated with a polymer coating that protects against wear. As a rule, structures are painted light gray, because it easily fits into any interior.

Main characteristics:

• height up to 2,000 mm – any size is possible to order;
• shelf length up to 1,800 mm;
• depth up to 600 mm;
• shelf load up to 120 kg.

Advantages:

• simple installation/disassembly;
• made of high quality galvanized metal, resistant to damage and corrosion;
• easy to use;
• the position of the shelves can be easily changed without disassembling the rack thanks to the special design;
• the flooring can be made of any material: chipboard, metal, plywood, etc.
• attractive appearance and high quality.

Flaws:

• small capacity.

• Mezzanines.

This type is a multi-level prefabricated metal warehouse racking system designed to store a wide range of products. Mezzanine structures are also called “storey” structures, because they are located one above the other. As a rule, they are needed to store large amounts of cargo in rooms with high ceilings.

The mezzanine is assembled from standard shelf and pallet racks, which are complemented with special parts. With their help, structures with various configurations are created.

This type of shelving works effectively in small spaces with high ceilings. It is most convenient to store goods on shelves and remove them from them using special loaders and elevators.

If the structure is more than 4 m high, then it must be attached to the wall for reliability and stability.

Mezzanines have the following characteristics:

• height up to 15,000 mm;
• rack load capacity – 5, 8, 12 and 16 tons;
• section length up to 3,600 mm;
• shelf depth up to 2,000 mm;
• flooring material: OSB, chipboard, metal;
• shelf load from 4,000 kg;
• load per square meter up to 1,000 kg.

Advantages:

• convenient access to the desired item;
• ease of installation/disassembly;
• expansion of storage area;
• racks can be easily modified depending on what goods will be stored;
• the ability to store and package cargo in one place.

Flaws:

• limited aisle width;
• components are difficult to repair;
• low impact resistance due to careless actions of loading equipment;
• the need for timely maintenance.

• Pallet deep.

Pallet deep design is a multi-level system in which pallets are placed according to the “last in, first out” principle.

The structure consists of vertical frames, upper beams and guides on which the pallets are placed. Pallet racks are suitable for cases when you need to store a large batch of identical goods with a limited assortment and low processing speed.

The system does not require direct access to each pallet, and the high density of cargo storage is ensured by the fact that there are few passages between the blocks.

Pallets are placed using a forklift that drives into the main channel of the system.

The back rows are filled first, gradually moving to the front. Unload the racks in the reverse order: from the front rows to the back.

In 1963, metal prefabricated pallet racks were manufactured, the beams of which had hooks. This design made it possible to store up to three pallets and was as close as possible to modern models.

Characteristics of pallet deep racks:

• frame height up to 14,000 mm;
• the interval for rearranging the depth beams is 50 mm;
• frame width up to 1,100 mm;
• galvanized frame coating;
• hook fastening of the upper beam to the frame;
• bolting the guides to the frame;
• rack profile type – rolled, St3 ps;
• profile thickness of the racks is 1.5–2 mm;
• profile width of racks up to 130 mm.

Advantages:

• high efficiency of space use;
• different types of pallets are suitable;
• Possibility of installation in chambers with an artificial microclimate.

Flaws:

• It is problematic to redistribute cargo inside the warehouse;
• complex design.

• Pallet front.

Pallet front structures are installed in warehouses in cases where a free approach to sections is required when there is a wide range of cargo.

Frontal prefabricated metal racks are assembled in one or more lines. Shelves can be of any length and arranged in several tiers. The section consists of vertical frames and horizontal beams on which the pallet is placed.

Characteristics of pallet front racks:

• storage depth from 600 to 1,600 mm;
• section length from 900 to 3,600 mm;
• height up to 12,000 mm;
• load per tier up to 5,100 kg;
• The height of the section is adjustable, the pitch is 50 mm.

Advantages:

• free access to stored goods;
• simple installation/disassembly;
• the ability to use almost any lifting equipment;
• allow you to store on pallets both goods of the same type and from different categories;
• the lower tier can be adapted for selecting goods.

Flaws:

• low efficiency of space use compared to deep racks;
• low density of goods placement;
• the paths for loading and unloading goods may intersect.

• Pallet shelves.

Prefabricated metal shelving like this is installed where space needs to be used as efficiently as possible. Large items are placed on them. Typically used in warehouses and shops.

The rack consists of a traverse and prefabricated frames. The shelves are made of metal or chipboard. The sections connected to each other form a series of the required length and depth. A common vertical frame is used for adjacent racks standing in the same row.

Characteristics:

• height 2,000–12,000 mm;
• shelf load up to 1,500 kg;
• frame depth 500–1,200 mm;
• frame load capacity up to 16,000 kg;
• polymer or galvanized coating of elements.

Advantages:

• ease of use;
• quick access to goods;
• you can create any number of storage levels;
• allow you to store a wide range of cargo.

The disadvantage is the high cost. For this reason, you may consider purchasing a used prefabricated metal shelving unit.

• For tires, wheels and rims.

Special structures are used to store tires, wheels and rims. They are suitable for car dealerships and service centers, as well as garages. Tires can be fixed in such racks, this guarantees their careful storage.

When installed in a garage, this design saves space, and in a store it makes it possible to quickly find the wheels you need.

The rack for tires and wheels consists of vertical frames and horizontal beams. They can be equipped with shelves for storing related products or parts.

Once the wheel is assembled, it can be placed on a shelf. Tires without rims should only be stored in an upright position.

Characteristics:

• height from 2,000 to 6,500 mm;
• section length up to 2,000 mm;
• available construction depth up to 800 mm;
• polymer or galvanized coating of elements;
• shelf load up to 800 kg.

Advantages:

• careful storage of goods;
• simple installation/dismantling of the structure;
• direct access to goods;
• saving storage space;

Flaws:

• it is difficult to assemble the rack yourself;
• It is difficult to get goods from the top shelf.

Before purchasing a shelf rack, you need to decide what exactly you will store and weigh all the pros and cons.

What to look for when choosing a rack

Today, the minimalist style has become especially popular and consumers choose light, airy structures that save space in the room, while solving the issue of placing individual elements. This design move is not suitable for everyone, since the practical component of the furniture design is lost.

By combining several types of materials within one rack, you can achieve stunning design originality

You can’t put bulky equipment on an open rack, and you can’t hide miscellaneous things in it. Everything that can be placed on a rack of this type is fashionable decor or flower arrangements .

You can give the room a cozy and homely look by filling the open shelves with jars of pickles and canned fruits

When choosing a rack, it is very important to focus on the style of the room. A big role here is played by such details as: the material from which this piece of furniture is made, its shape, height, color, design and many other equally important criteria.

The rack is made in the same style as the kitchen unit, so the interior looks harmonious

What characteristics to choose a rack for is decided on an individual basis, since everyone has different tastes and preferences. The only condition for the right choice is that the rack must be harmoniously combined with the interior of the room. The second place in importance can be given to the functionality and practicality of the item.

How to choose the right furniture

When arranging any room, products are selected that are not only beautiful, but also functional. In order for corner cabinets and shelving to fit organically into the interior and be convenient to use, it is necessary to adhere to the following recommendations when choosing a model:

• When buying furniture for a compact furnished room, you need to pay attention to narrow shelving that can be easily inserted into a free space. This option is suitable if you need to place few things on the shelves;
• If you are looking for a rack for your home (for storing a large number of different things), then it is better to give preference to models with drawers and shelves closed with blind doors. An excellent option is corner cabinets and racks;
• For a children's room, you need to choose low, semi-open cabinets and shelves with lower drawers in bright colors. It will be possible to put toys in the drawers, and on the open shelves the child can independently arrange games and books;
• When purchasing combined cabinets, it is important to pay attention to the quality of the fittings. Doors should open easily, without squeaking, and not warp. Drawers should slide out smoothly, not jump off the guides, and move without noise;
• if the cabinet is intended to accommodate books or documents, then special attention is paid to the strength of the shelves. To prevent the shelf material from cracking in the future, it is better to make sure in advance that the structure can withstand the load;
• When choosing furniture, the dimensions of the room must be taken into account. A small narrow cabinet can practically “dissolve” in a spacious room. The space of modest-sized rooms can be visually reduced when large shelving is installed;
• The shelving design does an excellent job of zoning space. This is especially appropriate in multifunctional rooms. In a children's room where two children live, it is easy to use small shelving to create areas for each child. Such furniture does not visually clutter the room, but adds practicality and comfort to it (especially ufokids boxes);
• Kitchen products should be chosen from inexpensive materials that are easy to care for. It is also better to give preference to combined models with drawers and glass doors. You can picturesquely arrange beautiful tea sets on the shelves, and store kitchen utensils (tablecloths, napkins, cutlery) in the drawers.

The lightness and simplicity of furniture design, its practicality, and affordability make racks very popular. Considering the advantages and variety of models, they can be considered serious competitors to conventional cabinets.

Material

Racks are made from different materials. In order not to get lost in all the variety, it is enough to find out which material is best suited for a particular style. For example, a rustic style involves the use of wooden furniture; metal shelving is mainly installed in kitchens in high-tech and techno styles.

Wooden shelving in country style

Tree . If the choice falls on a wooden structure, you need to make sure that there is no dissonance with the style, color and type of furniture. For a classic kitchen, massive shelves made of natural wood are suitable; for the Provence style, lighter and airier designs are preferred.

Provencal or romantic interiors require more intricate shapes and decorations for open shelving.

Metal. Stainless steel kitchen racks are needed to place utensils; they provide quick access to the necessary items. Such designs look original in the kitchen and accommodate all the necessary accessories. Metal structures are not very suitable for the minimalist style, but a small steel rack can fit well even into high-tech and Provence. The most preferable options for this type are lofts and Scandinavian-style kitchens.

Metal shelving in a high-tech kitchen

Plastic. The popularity of plastic shelving is due to their practicality and ease of maintenance. They do not absorb moisture, are not subject to corrosion, and the price of such structures is significantly lower than their metal and wooden counterparts.

Racks made of durable and high-quality plastic are suitable for storing drinks, vegetables and fruits. They will be an ideal storage for household chemicals and other related items. Plastic combines well with styles such as high-tech, minimalism and eclecticism. It is not advisable to use plastic in a kitchen in a rustic, classic and ecological style.

Plastic shelving can be very compact

Combination. Combinations of different materials look good in the interior. Laconic styles such as Provence, loft, eco-style are suitable for these purposes. Original fittings will add originality to the design.

“Brickwork” on the walls and metal fasteners for shelving make the loft more urban.

Metal prefabricated shelving design

The structural elements of a prefabricated metal rack include:

• Racks.
• Beams are the jumpers between the rack posts.
• Shelf flooring is most often made of plywood or metal.
• Additional elements. This includes wheels for movement or additional mounting holes on the posts. With their help you can change the height of the shelves.

Now let’s take a closer look at what all of the listed elements are and why they are needed.

• Metal racks for shelving and their functions.

The racks bear the main load, so they are made of galvanized steel. This material can withstand impressive weight. The bars differ from each other in their characteristics. For example, if heavy objects will be placed on the shelves, then racks with reinforced racks are needed. And for accounting archives, standard designs designed for a load of up to 600 kg are suitable.

In addition to reinforcement, racks can be perforated or solid. Perforation allows you to place shelves at the desired height and change it if necessary. This is very convenient if you plan to store oversized items. If shelving is needed to store books or folders with a standard height, then there is no need for perforation, since there will be no need to move the shelves.

It is important to remember that before you buy a prefabricated metal rack, you need to decide what will be stored on it. If heavy and oversized items are not intended to be placed, then the cost of a suitable design will be quite low. There is no need to buy the first rack you come across, no matter how attractive its price. First, you need to decide what characteristics the design should have, and then proceed to search for a suitable option for purchase.

• Beams for shelving and their characteristics.

Beams can withstand loads from several tens to several hundred kilograms. This depends on what material they are made of, as well as the size. The table below provides information characterizing the strength of the beams of prefabricated metal racks on which heavy pallets are installed.

Such racks are quite expensive and are more suitable for production facilities and large warehouses. It is not advisable to use such structures in offices, libraries or garages. For this reason, they will not be discussed in detail in our article.

• Features of flooring for shelving.

This part of the rack is most often made of metal, less often - of wood or plywood. Metal decks are definitely more durable. Thanks to modern technologies, coatings have appeared that are resistant to abrasion and protect against corrosion. Racks made using such products can be installed even in rooms with high air humidity.

In this regard, plywood or wood are significantly inferior to metal. They absorb moisture, which causes them to soften and rot over time. Even wood impregnated with a special composition will sooner or later be destroyed by contact with water, so this material is best used only in dry rooms.

Metal prefabricated shelving with plywood flooring is often installed in stores. This is explained by the fact that such structures are easy to install and inexpensive - cheaper than racks with metal flooring. In addition, plywood can be painted in any color. This will allow the rack to fit into any interior. In addition, this material can withstand heavy loads.

If we talk about metal flooring, they can be solid or lattice. In the latter option, the overall weight of the structure is reduced, while the strength of the shelves remains at a fairly high level. In addition, the grille provides ventilation and moisture removal. Water will not accumulate on the decking. This is especially true for storing metal parts, which can corrode from excess moisture.

Solid metal decking is most often used in prefabricated shelving intended for storing documents in offices or archives.

• Additional details.

Additional elements of prefabricated metal shelving include:

• rollers and wheels in the base;
• ladders;
• partitions, thanks to which you can make separate cells on the shelves;
• doors that can be sliding or hinged.

Rollers or wheels installed at the base of the rack allow it to be moved from place to place if necessary. This is very convenient in rooms with a small area. If necessary, you can move the shelves close to each other, and when you need to get something out, you can easily roll it back.

There are two types of stairs: separate and moving along the structure itself. With their help, it is convenient to remove items that are stored on the upper shelves.

Special partitions allow you to divide the shelf into separate cells. Sometimes this is needed to structure stored items or documents. With this system you can quickly find the item you need. It is especially suitable for libraries and offices, although it would not be out of place in the garage.

Color and design

When choosing a shelving unit, you need to take into account the color of the furniture, countertops and walls. The product is selected depending on its future purpose and design solutions. A buffet-style rack is suitable for a classic kitchen.

An example of a buffet-style shelving unit in a classic-style kitchen

Rough, artificially aged furniture is an ideal option for Provence and country style. Modern minimalism involves light metal structures, glass shelves and surfaces. The Scandinavian style is characterized by white and all shades of blue; in Provence, beige tones predominate. Loft style often uses dark wood in combination with metal.

It is necessary to take into account the style of the interior when purchasing a shelving unit

Height

A few tips will help you choose the height of the rack. When choosing the optimal height, you need to focus on the height of the ceilings and the level of the kitchen table. The design up to the ceiling will allow you to use as much usable space as possible.

High design is suitable for increasing space

A mobile shelf placed flush with the kitchen unit can create a complete picture. A small cabinet in the middle of the kitchen should not cause imbalance, preferably it should reach a level commensurate with the furniture countertop.

Form

A varied configuration of shapes and designs allows you to choose a rack according to your taste and preference. Today the market offers a variety of shelving options that can bring coziness and comfort to the room. .

Here are just some types of functional structures:

• mobile retractable racks on wheels;
• models in the form of stairs;
• cabinets with drawers;
• linear and angular elements combined into a single ensemble;
• island shelving and small cabinets;
• dividing partitions.

The shelves of the racks can be of different volumes.
In stores you can find both compact and massive models of racks. Nowadays, combined shapes and small-sized models in a classic style are very popular.

Type

Shelf - a classic rack designed for storing various items on shelves. Occurs most often.

There are these types of shelf racks.

• Lightweight – for storing light weight items. It is used in apartments for arranging a balcony or storage room (household), in offices, banks, archives for placing documents, stationery and office equipment (office).
• Medium and heavy - for storing more massive items (including food, tools, industrial equipment, household appliances). Such racks are found in workshops, warehouses, shops, and car service stations.

Some types of shelving racks for home:

• standard – symmetrical rack with back and side walls;
• wall rack - a wide rack with a niche for a TV or an aquarium, drawers and doors;
• lattice rack - consists of shelves and partitions, lacks back and side walls, often has an asymmetrical shape;
• cylinder rack is a rotating model that is found in stores. A good option for collectors.

Warehouses are equipped with pallet, drive-in, cantilever, and multi-tier racks.

Pallet – designed for storing goods in boxes on pallets (barrels, containers, rolls).

Trading (pallet-shelf) - combines the features of shelf and pallet. At the top of the rack there are loads on pallets, and at the bottom there are items on shelves. Such racks are used in large supermarkets.

Stuffed (deep, drive-in) – used for storing homogeneous and similar cargo on pallets.

Cantilever - used for storing large elongated cargo (including pipes), large items and items of non-standard sizes.

Multi-tiered – used for storing a large number of small-sized items.

Good location of the rack

Consumers often wonder where to put a dish rack. The location of such a functional piece of furniture should best suit the needs of the housewife in the kitchen.

It is best to place a kitchen rack in the work area. In this case, it will be possible to get the necessary things out of it without being distracted from the cooking process. The design should not block the entrance to the room; it is not advisable to place the rack too close to the stove and microwave.

The rack should be located as accessible as possible

Shelving as a partition in the kitchen

If zoning the kitchen is necessary, the rack will successfully cope with the task. This is especially true for studio apartments, which are popular today. In this case, the rack not only effectively copes with the division of space, but also serves as additional space for storing necessary items.

The shape of this piece of furniture is quite simple; most often such racks are made in the form of light wall-mounted or floor-mounted structures. They do not visually burden the space and do not clutter the overall picture.

Wall shelves divide the kitchen into two small zones

A shelving unit in the form of a partition allows you to create a realistic illusion of dividing a room into separate groups. You can cover part of the room, or just one corner of it; a stepped shape is ideal for this purpose.

The partition rack can be made partially closed, for example, by closing its lower part from prying eyes. A lightweight partition will be an excellent alternative to a bulky closet, as well as a functional and practical solution for effectively dividing space.

Peculiarities

A shelving cabinet is a universal type of furniture, consisting of many shelves of the same or different sizes. A correctly selected model will ideally complement any interior. The main functions of this design are storing items for various purposes, organizing space, saving usable space. The difference between shelving and wardrobes is the absence of doors. Some models have glass doors so as not to interfere with the view. Often, furnishings are not equipped with a back wall, which helps reduce weight but limits functionality.

Shelving has several advantages:

• they are multifunctional - they are used to display certain products (for example, books or awards), allow you to divide the space into separate zones, and can serve as a decorative element;
• provide a good overview and quick access to things;
• characterized by spaciousness with small dimensions;
• allow you to save space due to compactness.

The disadvantage of such structures is that they are not intended for storing large clothes and all kinds of items that should be out of sight. This fact leads to the need to purchase additional furniture.

The shelves of a shelving cabinet can be turned into convenient cells by filling them with baskets or containers.

Shelving in a small kitchen

Small spaces can be arranged comfortably. The main thing is to follow some recommendations regarding the arrangement of small rooms. In the mini-kitchen, light, airy shelves, corner structures and shelving with narrow shelves benefit. The ideal option would be a shelving unit built into the wall. In fact, you can use any niche of the room, stylizing it favorably as functional storage.

Shelving in a small kitchen should have shelves so that items no wider than a dinner plate can be placed on them.

Built-in furniture is made to order; in this case, specialists will always find the most successful and profitable solution for maximizing space conservation in each individual kitchen, taking into account its characteristics. A narrow shelving unit for the kitchen can be purchased at a furniture store; in this case, all that remains is to assemble it and install it in the most suitable place.

A narrow shelving unit will not take up much space in a compact kitchen

Shelves ideally save space in the room and act as a useful addition to the design of the kitchen room. A free-standing or hanging shelf will decorate the kitchen interior. For additional storage space, you can use the space above kitchen cabinets, above the stove and under the windowsill. Roll-out shelving will be the optimal solution for a small kitchen and allow you to expand your boundaries.

Features of installation of prefabricated metal racks

Before purchasing a rack, you need to calculate the expected load on it. It is recommended to choose designs that can support additional weight. For example, if you plan to store loads up to 100 kg, then it is better to choose a model that can withstand 120 kg.

In order not to make a mistake with the number of sections in the structure, you need to prepare a floor plan with dimensions and mark on it the expected location of metal prefabricated shelving.

Installing a storage system is a complex and time-consuming job. Errors in it are unacceptable. The safety of company employees and the safety of cargo depend on the correct assembly of racks in compliance with technological requirements. For this reason, installation of storage systems is trusted to specialists who have the necessary experience, skills and certificates to perform such work. Using modern equipment, professionals can install prefabricated metal shelving of any complexity, while providing a guarantee for their services.

Installation of storage systems consists of several stages that ensure prompt completion of the work:

• Delivery of shelving elements and necessary equipment and tools to the installation site with careful unloading.
• Checking all elements for strength and defects.
• Assembly. It begins with the installation of the support frame using fastening hardware (strength class from 8.8). Next, horizontal beams are fixed on the frame and the rack rows are aligned.
• Fastening frames to the floor and walls using anchor bolts, ensuring reliable stability of the structure.
• Installation of protective elements on racks after fastening rows of racks together.
• Removing debris resulting from the assembly of racks.
• Checking the quality of installation, conducting diagnostics to identify possible defects and problem areas.

Only a team of professionals consisting of engineers and installers can competently carry out all of the above operations. Work must be carried out in accordance with the design documentation. The layout of the racks must be previously agreed upon and approved by the employees responsible for this process. Installation must be carried out in compliance with safety regulations and using special equipment and tools.

Planning the installation of a storage system must be carried out taking into account the specifics and features of the space. This process also includes calculating the required number of shelving levels and sections, shelf depth and width, load capacity, strength and access to goods. Work on the installation of metal prefabricated racks must be carried out at temperatures from -15 °C to +40 °C. Installation carried out in accordance with technological requirements guarantees the absence of defects, as well as the reliability and durability of the storage system.

How to make a rack with your own hands

You can make a rack yourself using boxes of the same shape for storing vegetables and fruits. This is done as follows: a single structure is assembled from the boxes, which is best fastened with nails.

If desired, the boxes can be tinted with stain, artificially aged, added vintage inscriptions, painted white or some bright color

The product can be painted, or it can be cleaned and left as is. This type of shelving is most suitable for a country house or kitchen in country and Provence style. You can also assemble a bookcase from boxes, calculating its height and selecting the desired size.

Perforated metal sheets can be used as a material for shelving in the Art Nouveau style. The result may be a modern design, which is also suitable for high-tech and techno style.

There are no shelves in this design; the sheets are mounted on the wall. Special hooks for baskets and flowerpots are attached to the sheets. The simplest solution for making your own shelving can be considered a ladder. It is enough to cut the item to length and paint it in a color that matches the style. The steps of the stepladder will act as shelves.

A shelving unit made from a ladder can be an excellent design solution.