Innovative Self Storage Solutions: Design to Completion with SAS

Building a successful self storage facility means getting lots of things right. You need the right location, the right design, and the right approach to make it all work together.

At SAS Projects, we handle everything from the first sketch to handing over the keys. We know what works because we’ve done it many times before.

What Makes Storage Facilities Work

A good storage facility looks simple, but there’s actually quite a lot going on behind the scenes. You need the right mix of unit sizes, proper security, good access, and systems that keep everything running smoothly.

Most people think it’s just about putting up some walls and doors. But the best facilities are carefully planned to make the most money whilst keeping customers happy.

The trick is balancing what customers want with what makes business sense. Too many small units and you won’t make enough money. Too many large ones and they’ll sit empty.

Starting with Smart Design

Every good storage project starts with understanding who will use it. Students need different things than families moving house. Business customers have different needs again.

We look at your area and work out what people actually need. This helps us design the right mix of units that will stay rented and make money.

Good design also means thinking about how people will move around the building. Wide corridors for trolleys, good lighting so people feel safe, and clear signs so they can find their unit easily.

We also plan for things like loading areas, office space, and room for customers to park. These might seem like small details, but they make a big difference to how well your facility works.

Making the Most of Your Space

The biggest difference between a profitable storage facility and one that struggles is how well you use your space. Every square metre needs to earn its keep.

We use clever design tricks to squeeze more storage into the same building. This might mean custom unit sizes that fit your building perfectly, or using height more effectively with mezzanine levels.

Corner spaces often get wasted in storage facilities. We design special units that make use of these awkward areas. Over time, this extra space adds up to serious extra income.

We also look at things like corridor widths. You need them wide enough for access, but not so wide that you’re wasting valuable storage space.

Modern Technology Integration

Today’s storage customers expect modern conveniences. They want to book online, get into their unit without waiting for office hours, and feel secure about their belongings.

We build in all the technology from the start. This includes access control systems that let customers in 24/7, security cameras that cover all the important areas, and computer systems that handle bookings and payments.

The key is choosing technology that’s reliable and easy to use. Customers get frustrated with complicated systems, and you don’t want to spend your time fixing technical problems.

We also make sure everything can be upgraded later. Technology changes fast, so your systems need to be flexible enough to grow with new developments.

Security That Actually Works

Security is huge in the storage business. Customers trust you with their valuable belongings, and break-ins can destroy your reputation quickly.

But security isn’t just about cameras and alarms. Good design is your first line of defence. Clear sight lines mean there are fewer places for people to hide. Good lighting makes everything visible. Strong construction makes break-ins much harder.

We design security into every part of the building. This includes the type of doors we use, where we put the cameras, and how we light the corridors and outside areas.

The best security systems work automatically. Customers don’t have to think about them, but they’re always there working in the background.

Building for Different Customers

Not all storage customers are the same. Some need climate-controlled units for sensitive items. Others just want basic dry storage at the lowest price.

We help you decide what types of units to include. This depends on your local market and what customers are willing to pay for.

Climate-controlled units cost more to build and run, but they can charge higher rents. The trick is getting the balance right so you maximise your income without building units that stay empty.

We also think about special requirements like vehicle storage, wine storage, or business archives. These niche markets often pay premium prices for the right facilities.

The Construction Process

Once the design is sorted, the actual building work needs to be managed carefully. Storage facilities have their own special requirements that not all builders understand.

We handle the whole construction process, working with contractors who know how to build storage facilities properly. This includes things like the right type of concrete floors, proper drainage, and electrical systems designed for storage use.

Timing is important too. You want to open as soon as possible to start earning money, but rushing the build can cause problems later. We plan realistic timelines that get you open quickly without cutting corners.

We also handle all the paperwork and permissions you need. Planning applications, building regulations, fire safety approvals – we know what’s needed and how to get it sorted efficiently.

Cost Control That Makes Sense

Storage facilities need to make money, so controlling construction costs is crucial. But the cheapest option isn’t always the best value.

We help you understand where it’s worth spending more and where you can save money without affecting quality. For example, good security systems are worth the investment, but fancy finishes in storage areas usually aren’t.

We also look at running costs, not just building costs. More efficient heating, lighting, and security systems might cost more upfront but save money every month for years.

Our goal is to build facilities that make money from day one and keep making money for decades.

Quality Control Throughout

Storage facilities need to be built properly because problems are expensive to fix later. A roof leak can damage customers’ belongings and destroy your reputation.

We check everything as work progresses. This includes things like making sure doors seal properly, floors are level, and all the electrical work is done safely.

We also test all the systems before you open. Security cameras, access controls, lighting – everything gets checked to make sure it works properly.

This attention to detail means fewer problems after you open and happier customers in the long run.

Planning for Success

A storage facility is a long-term investment. We design and build facilities that will still be successful in 20 or 30 years’ time.

This means thinking about things like future expansion possibilities, changing customer needs, and new technologies that might become important.

We also consider the local area and how it might change. New housing developments or business parks can create demand for different types of storage.

Good planning from the start means your facility can adapt and grow as your business develops.

Support After Opening

Our job doesn’t end when you get the keys. We provide ongoing support to help you get the most from your investment.

This might include advice on marketing your new facility, help with operational issues, or maintenance support to keep everything running smoothly.

We want your facility to be successful because successful customers come back to us for their next projects.

Why Choose SAS Projects

We’ve built storage facilities across the UK, from small urban sites to large suburban developments. We understand what works in different locations and markets.

Our team includes architects, engineers, and project managers who specialise in storage facilities. We’re not general contractors trying to figure it out as we go – storage is what we do.

We also understand the business side. We know what storage operators need to be successful, and we design and build accordingly.

Getting Started

If you’re thinking about a storage facility project, the first step is talking through your ideas with someone who understands the business.

We’ll look at your site, discuss your goals, and explain how we can help you create a successful storage facility.

Every project is different, but our approach is always the same – understand what you need, design the right solution, and build it properly.

Making It Happen

Building a storage facility is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right team, clear planning, and proper execution, you can create a facility that serves your community whilst providing strong returns for years to come.

At SAS Projects, we make the whole process as straightforward as possible. From that first meeting to opening day, we’re with you every step of the way.