Nanaimo Museum

Case Study

The design by Boni Maddison Architects to relocate the Nanaimo Museum in the downtown revitalization plan employed best practices. A high density compact storage system was required to house their collection of artifacts as the precious space could not be wasted. A Spacesaver mechanical assist high density storage system was chosen to fill the bill.

The work was done by Hi-Cube Storage Products, who supply install, and service Spacesaver mobile storage systems in British Columbia. The new compact storage system allowed Nanaimo Museum to keep more of their collection. Design criteria for the mobile storage system required allowance for growth of their unique collection of hanging garments and rolled textiles, by using a specialized hanging system for garments, and a custom cantilever textile storage rack designed specifically for textiles. Shelving size accommodated the unique box sizes used for the collection and was spaced for optimum air circulation. Full extension drawers were used for small artifacts. Laminate end panels were made to match the millwork used in the storage area. The storage system is powder coated as there is no off gassing, and light grey was chosen to improve light reflection in the area.