[Decision guide]
What this article will help you decide
administrative, facility and purchasing teams
calculate storage based on actual volume, access, security and future additions
Don't just count the number of sections: check the internal format, opening of the facades, passages, locks and fastenings
How do you know how much storage your office needs?
Don't start with the number of cabinets in your old office: some of the contents may not have been used for years. Make a list of categories, owners and frequency of access. Documents of daily work are placed next to the team, rare materials are placed in the central archive, personal belongings of hybrid employees are placed in lockers.
Measure not only folders, but also large items: boxes, samples, equipment and household supplies. For growth, leave a reasonable reserve, but do not duplicate it in each department.
- personal items;
- operational documents;
- team materials;
- archive and confidential documents;
- equipment and household supplies.
Cabinet, wardrobe or locker - what to choose?
A mobile cabinet is convenient for a fixed space, but less effective in a hybrid office. A tall cabinet uses a vertical, but it needs to be checked for stability and access to the top shelves. Lockers are suitable for shift users and free workstations from personal belongings.
Credence combines storage and additional surface in an office or meeting room. The wardrobe should be considered based on seasonal outerwear and the method of ventilation.
What to check in the design of an office cabinet?
Check the permissible load on the shelves, type of fastening, adjustment of supports and stability when doors or drawers are open. Tall and wall modules are installed according to the manufacturer's instructions. Confidential documents require a suitable lock and controlled key issuance.
BIFMA X5.9 describes testing of office storage systems. If compliance is stated in the purchase, request confirmation for a specific series. Also check the ability to replace a hinge, lock or front without purchasing the entire cabinet.
- shelf load;
- stability and fastening;
- locks and access control;
- door opening angle;
- fittings service.
How to integrate storage into your layout?
Check door and drawer openings, walkways and cleaning access. Cabinets can zone the space, but should not block light, ventilation or visibility. Low storage often acts as a soft boundary between teams.
Cabinets, cabinets and credenzas are presented in PoMo storage categories. For a project, their number is calculated along with workplaces and the company’s archival policy.
Sources and useful materials
- PoMo storage systems
- BIFMA: description of standards for office furniture
- US EPA: Air quality in office buildings
Frequently asked questions
How many cabinets do you need per employee?
There is no universal norm. Volume depends on documents, hybrid mode, personal storage and digital archive policy.
Which is better for a hybrid office?
Lockers and shared team cabinets are usually more effective than individual cabinets at each desk.
Do I need to install a tall cabinet?
Follow the manufacturer's instructions; Many tall or wall-mounted units require mounting for stability.
Which cabinets are suitable for confidential documents?
Closed systems with a controlled lock and clear responsibility for keys or access.
A low-commitment first step
Plan storage by zone
Send a list of items stored, number of users, access requirements, floor plan and height restrictions. During working hours, the team will clarify the missing data and prepare a storage diagram with module types and quantities by zone.
- 01
You share the project details list of items stored, number of users, access requirements, layout and height restrictions.
- 02
We review the brief We clarify the restrictions, availability and scope of work.
- 03
You receive a clear next step storage diagram with module types and quantities by zone.