What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think about self-storage? It’s storing stuff, right?
But that doesn’t mean you have to stop there. Take the rock band Breath of Fire: They decided a Honolulu storage unit was the perfect setting for them to practice.
Then there’s Limbcare, a charity that helps amputees based in Surrey, England. They use a self-storage unit as a depot for donated prosthetic devices.
While those situations are pretty specific, there are plenty of creative uses for storage units. You may even find some of them are good fits for you. Here are some examples.
If converting a room in your house into a workout space isn’t an option, why not use a storage unit to take a run on the treadmill or lift weights? You’ll have privacy and, depending on your needs, may spend less money than you would on a gym membership.
Moving your personal workout equipment into a storage unit also helps you free up living space at home, minimize clutter, and keep heavy, potentially dangerous items away from your children.
Personal space is key to the creative process. So whether you want your own sewing room, an arts and crafts area, or some other kind of maker space, a storage unit can meet your needs.
Bring in some shelves and cubbies to organize your materials and supplies, some work tables, chairs, any necessary equipment like a sewing machine or lathe, and you’re good to go.
Fine-tune as needed to create your own:
At Montgomery Self Storage, we can help you select a unit with electrical outlets appropriate for your equipment.
Just remember that certain chemicals and items that are considered hazardous are not permitted. We recommend talking with one of our property managers before you set up your creative space.
Not only do self-storage units make good places to create things, they also can be used to display those creations.
In fact, a number of artists and artistic communities have transformed storage units into art galleries. To maximize your space, use folding partitions to create the feel of display rooms. You also can display the artwork on them.
Depending on the size of your unit, you may have room for a small display table as well.
Self-storage units can provide an affordable warehousing space for solopreneurs and small businesses.
They can provide secure places to keep your:
Again, just be sure to touch base with management to make sure your inventory doesn’t include items that are considered unsafe for the storage facility.
If you take being prepared seriously, a self-storage unit is a perfect place to keep a cache of supplies from canned goods (and can opener!) to a medical kit, bottled water to camping gear.
When you’re storing food and water, you’ll need to watch expiration dates and switch out items periodically.
Storage units are great places to wrap and store gifts and keep them away from prying eyes until you’re ready to give them.
You also can use the space to assemble toys and store wrapping paper, gift bags, and other gift-giving supplies.
Several of these ideas, from storing emergency food to displaying art, will require climate-controlled units. Our managers can help you find the best option for your goals.