ArchiPro spoke with Sydney and Melbourne-based GarageSmart, a leading garage storage fit-out specialist, about the bespoke garage storage solutions redefining garage utility, from wall-mounted shelving and accessory systems, parlayed commonly with cabinetry to solve homeowners storage issues.
SmartWall is where flexibility meets form
One of the most adaptable garage storage systems on the market is GarageSmart’s SmartWall. Made from durable PVC, this “made and cut to size” wall-mounted SlatWall solution is designed for busy lifestyles.
“The SmartWall gets installed onto the garage wall, and all the accessories (hooks, baskets, shelving) can be moved around,” says Dean Selkrig, Director of GarageSmart. “It’s great for young families or anyone with changing needs. The system evolves with you.”
All accessories are fabricated in-house and are handmade, made from thick gauge metal and are powder coated in a metallic charcoal finish. All hooks have a protective rubber membrane, particularly advantages when not wanting items scratched when stowed.
Direct Series Shelving is designed for bulk
For heavier-duty and bulky item needs, particularly when open shelving is preferred, the Direct Series Shelving (DS) stands out. “It’s a heavy-duty shelving system that gets applied directly onto garage walls, whether it’s a stud wall or masonry,” Dean explains.
“It comes in two depths (305mm and 610mm). The 610mm product is especially useful for bulkier items such as suitcases, large tubs, etc. It’s a market-leading depth as no other company does wall-mounted shelving at that depth with the substantial weight holding capacity of the GarageSmart Direct Series Shelving.”
The DS system incorporates utility and bike hooks that are easily adjusted anywhere on the shelving, enabling you to store bikes, golf bags, chairs, ladders, garden tools, trolleys, bags and leads below the shelving.
Zoning for multi-use spaces
While the pandemic spurred demand for multi-purpose garage zones, such as home gyms and workshops, this trend is evolving. “That’s trending backwards now. People are putting their cars back in the garage, and need smarter storage,” says Dean.
Clever designers are incorporating both open-access storage and concealed cabinetry into garage layouts, tailoring the mix to client needs. “Some people want brooms and everyday stuff accessible. Others want cabinetry; winter jackets, shoes hidden behind doors. We offer a full range of cabinetry internal configurations that caters to any client’s needs”
Navigating home automation, solar and EV technology
One of the biggest shifts in garage design is the rise of smart home and renewable technologies with EV Powerwalls, solar inverters and EV chargers. Dean advises, these aren’t optional add-ons anymore; they’re a must-have fixture in new builds.
“Nearly every garage we go into now has extensive home automation hardware, EV chargers, battery packs, etc” says Dean. “We have to design around these obstructions constantly. That’s our job and with the suite of products GarageSmart has developed over 20 plus years, we are prepared”
Cable management for EV chargers is increasingly in demand and the team ensures their storage solutions accommodate and aesthetically integrate them. “We incorporate all the electrical feeds into the design.”
From high-end townhouses to underground multi-car garages, the team’s approach is always bespoke. “We don’t do cookie-cutter. Every job is different,” says Dean. “Townhouses, in particular, have less storage overall, and our product excels in that kind of environment.”
We come out, listen to what our clients' issues and needs are, then design the solution and execute around that.
As Australians demand for storage remains high, garage storage may soon join the ranks of standard builder inclusions.
“Think about how butlers pantries are becoming a storage staple,” says Dean. “I’d like to see smart garage systems become a standard fixture in new builds. We do this already for forward-thinking architects and builders.”
Innovation is alive and well in this space. “We’re launching new products shortly, things like wall-mounted sports bags for kids’ gear, and a new hook locking mechanism that stops them from coming off the smart wall accidentally.”
“Our service is old-fashioned in the best way, our clients are 100 per cent this way inclined; meticulous and particular” says Dean. “We come out, listen to what our clients' issues and needs are, then design the solution and execute around that.”
To explore tailored storage systems for your project or residence, contact GarageSmart via their website, or on ArchiPro today.