Overhead storage often gets… overlooked. Not only can high storage have the functional benefits of utilising space but it can also be used to balance the look of a room, particularly a large one. Suspending anything from your ceiling that will be load bearing brings with it some technical and structural considerations however, which is why so many designers shy away from including overhead storage in their concepts and why lots of makers and contractors avoid it. With both the vision and the ability to execute, we’ve delivered a variety of overhead and high-line storage solutions in both domestic and commercial settings over the years. Here are our Design Director Luke’s thoughts on why it can be such a great option, and how to use it.

On Maximising The Potential of a Space

“Overhead and full height elements in an interior scheme are often the key in getting the most out of a space. Whether it is to find balance with low-level units and furniture, or simply to provide maximum storage for the likes of boot rooms, cloak rooms and utilities. Even in rooms such as these, which are often considered as more utilitarian spaces, we can still find opportunities to create beautiful spaces that compliment the interior scheme.”

Incorporating High Storage Into An Interior Scheme

“We often use a contrasting element in our highline storage solutions as they allow for another palette to be introduced to a scheme, whether in the form of colour, material or texture. Quite often we will incorporate metal work and hanging elements. Whilst one might assume that introducing metal work at height is visually heavy, the opposite is often the case. The strength of metal over traditional joinery allows for lighter looking, more skeletal structures. Personally, I’m a fan of introducing ‘transparent’ elements like this within highline storage. I think that being able to see through parts of the work back to the fabric of the building makes it feel lighter and intrinsic to the property, as opposed to something that’s just been bolted to a wall.”

On The Bigger Picture

“Full height spaces give a great opportunity to have an unbroken aesthetic to our work. I’m always excited when we get to work from floor to ceiling, whether it be in a pantry, fitted wardrobes, or commercial bars and hospitality settings. I think the unbroken look of the end result really emphasises the best qualities of fitted furniture.”

The Practicalities of High Storage

“Full height elements are more often than not less frequently used spaces, good for storing seasonal wares but they can also be used in part for displaying cherished items, I do always try to incorporate glass if this is the case just to keep things dust free! These spaces can also allow for hidden access to services and other features that are required in the modern home.”

What To Be Aware of When Considering High or Overhead Storage

“Fixing points for high and hanging storage should ideally be considered fairly early on. We recently installed a hung staircase and slatted screen that required steel work to be welded to the structural elements of the building. Once our mechanical fixing points had been attached, boarding and finishing could take place around them and then the staircase and screen could be installed. It involves a bit more logistics and planning, but it’s necessary to achieve a totally fixing-free finish that leaves people asking the question, “How is that held up there?”

If you want your home to be an expression and reflection of who you are, as well as a functional living space, and you think that you could benefit from Luke’s design-led thinking and our making expertise to make the most of your space and budget, then get in touch. Sometimes overhead storage is the right option for a client or a space, and sometimes it isn’t – we’ll work with you to find the solutions.

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