Beyond Four Walls: Why Great Storage Facilities Are Built Like Five-Star Hotels
Self storage is no longer just about cold concrete and metal doors. In today’s competitive market, the best facilities are designed with the same attention to detail as high-end hotels, focusing on accessibility, security and a seamless customer experience.
We chatted with Hayden Gage, National Sales Manager at Janus International Australia, about why he believes self storage design is an art form. As pioneers in modern self storage design, Janus is known for strategic thinking and innovation. We take a closer look at Hayden’s key design considerations, why bigger isn’t always better, how to plan for profit and why first impressions count.
“A well-designed facility is more than just a place to store belongings. It’s a space that maximises revenue potential, offers convenience and creates a premium experience for the customer.”
Designing for the VIP Experience
In luxury hotels, seamless check-ins, clear signage and well-lit spaces create an inviting atmosphere. These same principles should guide self storage facility design. Customers want convenience, accessibility and ease of use. “By focusing on the customer journey from entry to exit, operators can create a stress-free experience that transforms first-time renters into loyal clients,” Hayden explains.
Key Design Consideration
When designing unit layouts, one key element is ensuring accessibility. Larger, higher-priced units are typically placed on the ground level or closest to lifts, making them easily accessible to customers. Addressing customer needs throughout the design process creates a more logical, efficient flow within the facility, enhancing both the experience and revenue.
The Psychology of Space: Bigger Isn’t Always Better
A great hotel room feels spacious even if it’s compact, and the same can be said for self storage. The key is smart design. Well-placed lighting, high-contrast colours, and a strategic layout can make even a small space feel open and welcoming. Using vertical space effectively and incorporating sleek finishes can elevate the overall aesthetic of the facility, attracting higher-paying tenants.
Smart Access and Automation
Incorporating technology is crucial to creating a seamless and automated experience for customers. Keyless entry and exit into the facility, for instance, adds convenience, while reducing the need for additional staff boosts operational efficiency.
Optimising Space for Maximum Profit
Just as five-star hotels maximise every square metre of space with features like lobby lounges or rooftop bars, self storage facilities should optimise space for profitability. Mixed unit sizes, including locker-sized units for city dwellers, meet a range of customer needs. By focusing on efficient space planning, facilities can cater to diverse customer requirements, and incorporating automation, like smart entry and remote access, turns the facility into a 24/7 revenue-generating space. This strategy not only maximises space usage but also minimises operational costs, allowing for higher returns.
Space Planning
“It’s important your design team prioritises efficient unit space planning. By focusing on layout and design from the start, you can maximise the lettable space yield, creating an environment that delivers both practicality and profitability.” Hayden Gage, National Sales Manager at Janus International Australia
First Impressions Matter
A hotel’s first impression matters – a polished exterior, clear signage, and a welcoming entryway set the tone for the entire experience. The same goes for self storage. Investing in high-quality design elements, such as a clean, modern exterior and professional signage, builds trust with potential customers and justifies premium pricing.
The Importance of Unit Sizes
Standard unit sizes play a significant role in the design process. These sizes must align with customer needs and integrate seamlessly with other building elements, like structure and corridor widths. By accounting for these factors early in the design process, the development process becomes more streamlined and efficient, leading to better outcomes for both the facility operators and their customers.
Build to Impress, Design to Succeed
Great self storage facilities aren’t just functional boxes; they are businesses designed to succeed. By borrowing concepts from the hospitality industry, self storage operators can create spaces that feel premium, operate efficiently, and generate higher revenue.
