Museums play a vital role in preserving the history and culture of humanity. These institutions house many priceless valuables and fragile items, from artwork to historical artifacts. However, according to the American Alliance of Museums, only about 30% of the collection in a museum may be publicly displayed at a time. Meaning 70% of the collection must be stored away with proper preservation and protection of the items. Inadequate storage can damage, deteriorate, or even result in the loss of artwork and artifacts.
This blog will discuss four ways our storage solutions optimize your museum artifact and art storage to ensure your collection remains safe and secure for years.
4 Ways to Optimize Your Museum or Art Gallery
1. Secure Museum Storage Cabinets
Whether planning a new museum collections area or updating your current space, storage cabinets are crucial, as they provide secure storage space for valuable artifacts. McMurray Stern has various museum storage cabinets designed with state-of-the-art locking mechanisms and environmental control features. In addition, our cabinet options are versatile and can work for artifacts like:
- Conservation (full height or counter height)
- Botany/herbarium
- Entomology
- Flat-file
- Geology, and more!
Our museum cabinets ensure that the items stored within them are safe from theft, vandalism, and environmental damage.
2. Convenient-Access Art Storage Racks
Art storage racks are popular for storing a variety of artwork. Our art racks have anti-tip and anti-vibration mechanisms to protect the artwork. The racks also come in different sizes and configurations to suit the specific storage needs of different types of artwork. We offer:
- Ceiling-mounted
- Hand-controlled art rack systems
- Floor-mounted high-density art storage rack systems
- Free-standing modular art racks
- 4-post art racks
With customizable features such as adjustable shelves, padding, and easy-access systems, the storage racks provide a flexible and efficient storage solution for museums and art galleries.
3. Combine High-Density Mobile Storage + Museum Archival Storage
High-density mobile storage and archival storage are two solutions that can be combined to optimize museum storage space. Archival storage provides a controlled environment for delicate artifacts, while high-density mobile storage maximizes floor space by eliminating the need for aisles. These two solutions can provide secure, controlled, and efficient storage space for even the most sensitive and valuable artifacts. We understand how rapidly museum collections grow, and these storage solutions create a way to store far more items in less space.
4. Go Vertical with X-Tend High Bay Systems
X-Tend High Bay systems are an excellent option for institutions that need to take full advantage of the vertical space in a tall building or offsite warehouse. Designed to maximize vertical space in museums and art galleries, the system provides high-density storage solutions, climate control, and exceptional return on investment (ROI).
Other McMurray Stern museum and art storage include textiles, low-level lighting systems, and more. Learn more about our museum and art solutions here.
Identifying the Best Storage Solution for Your Museum
We understand that a museum or art gallery’s number one priority is to invest in quality, durable storage that will keep artifacts and art safe.
Access Your Collection
Begin by assessing your museum and art collection to determine the types of objects that need to be stored. Consider the available space and budget for storage. Our McMurray Stern storage experts will help implement a storage system that offers the highest accessibility, scalability, and security to ensure that objects can be easily retrieved, grown, and protected.
Utilize Temperature and Humidity Control Systems to Limit Decay and Damage
The Smithsonian Institution’s Museum Conservation Institute reported that environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity are among the primary factors affecting artifacts’ longevity. Additionally, the institute found that controlling these factors can extend the life of objects in storage by up to 300%! Our museum and art storage solutions offer peace of mind when preserving your artifacts and artwork.
Let’s Talk!
McMurray Stern has been providing value to California and the Western part of the U.S. since 1980. We partner with businesses (in various industries), manufacturers, distributors, and customers to provide storage solutions for their needs. Contact us to learn more: https://mcmurraystern.com/contact-us/
