Art Storage with Integrated Sprinkler Protection
A university art gallery needed new open and accessible shelving that could also easily accommodate exceptionally long items such as rolled canvases and other artwork. They were also concerned with damage to artwork if the sprinkler system were ever activated. Read on to learn about how oversized light-duty cantilever shelves with added canopies for sprinkler protection for art met all of this gallery’s unique storage needs. Click here to see more of our artwork storage solutions.
Oversized Cantilever Shelves
The gallery’s original plans specified a mobile 4-post shelving system, but the staff was concerned that she shelves would not be wide enough to accommodate large, oversize items and that the front posts would prevent convenient and quick storage and retrieval. Engineers worked with the gallery to design light-duty cantilever shelves that would easily accommodate the weight of oversize items while still allowing stored items to be easily accessible and visible.
To provide open access to a long span of shelving, engineers first attached two shelving frames together back-to-back. The frames were then fitted with cantilever arms that were 30 inches deep, creating shelves that could store up to 80 pounds each. A durable and specially engineered base was also included to provide maximum stability to the cantilever shelves.
The final product consists of five double-sided units (pictured here) placed side-by-side that forms a system nearly 21 feet long. Items up to 50 inches long can be stored on the lower shelves, and the upper shelves are used to accommodate items of varying lengths up to the full length of the system.
Because the gallery staff was concerned about the possibility of stored art being damaged or even destroyed by the building’s sprinkler system, a drainage canopy was designed at the top of each unit for sprinkler protection. If sprinklers are ever activated, water will land on the top canopy and flow down to the gutter system, away from the units’ contents. You can never be too careful with your storage, especially with valuable items such as artwork—the gallery staff understood this well.
In addition, the engineering team also created custom side rails, backstops, and front stops so smaller items could also be stored on the cantilever shelves. These protective features also keep items securely in place and prevent accidental movement.
We have many other cantilever solutions for a variety of applications. Click here to see more about cantilever shelving.
Contact Us for Oversized Light-Duty Cantilever Shelves with Sprinkler Protection
Southwest Solutions Group® provides design and installation services for oversized light-duty cantilever shelves with sprinkler protection for storing art in applications just like this one. We will also provide you with a free consultation to determine your exact needs and specifications before the design process begins. To learn more or to speak with a specialist, call us at 1-800-803-1083 or send us a message today.
