PRESERVING HERITAGE WITH THE CARE IT DESERVES
CHALLENGE
The State of Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR), responsible for the preservation of Michigan’s history, faced a challenge storing and preserving artifacts within its off-site warehouse. This warehouse, formerly a John Deere factory, stood as a space filled with disorganized pallet racks where historical treasures lacked proper storage.
Needing to overhaul this storage situation, the DNR sought a solution to properly store and showcase its artifacts. They wanted a shift toward a more organized and space-efficient storage method to maximize the warehouse’s square footage and the display potential of these historic items.
An innovative storage solution, Spacesaver’s High-Density Mobile Shelving Systems were designed as the perfect solution to transform the warehouse’s chaotic storage setup. The DNR’s vision aligned perfectly with Spacesaver’s capabilities, offering the prospect of smaller compartments within the high-density mobile systems to securely house and display the state’s diverse array of artifacts, including delicate hanging garments.
Wanting to store and showcase historical pieces of all shapes and sizes, the Michigan History Museum knew it needed a partner to help transform its large warehouse of improperly stored artifacts on pallet racks and in boxes throughout the space. This strategic approach aimed to not only ensure
organization and preservation of the garments but also space utilization, facilitating convenient access to the collections as needed.
Funding for this project came from both state-provided resources and a secure grant. Plans were set in motion to revolutionize the warehouse into a fitting archive for Michigan’s historical artifacts, however, Covid-related regulations halted their progress. Despite the pandemic setback, Spacesaver’s local expert maintained a close relationship with the museum, allowing them to seamlessly resume the project when regulations allowed.
SOLUTION
Building upon our established relationship with the client, Spacesaver brought its expertise to the project, offering High-Density Mobile Systems with 4-Post shelving. Customized to accommodate archival boxes with garment hangers, our innovative storage solutions perfectly met the State of Michigan’s non-proprietary specification
requirements for the bidding process.
Spacesaver’s solutions stood out among competitors, enabling us to secure the bid and implement our innovative storage systems in collaboration with The Casper Corporation. Through our successful track record with previous installations, we instilled confidence in the State, leading to the integration of our storage solutions within the Michigan History Museum.
This off-site facility serves as the warehouse for the Michigan History Museum’s extensive collection, combined with the adaptability of our High-Density Mobile Systems. While inaccessible to the public, this storage facility – distinct from the museum’s downtown Lansing location – plays an important role in preserving historical artifacts intended for future public exhibitions. Spacesaver’s solutions continue to support the museum’s commitment to preserving Michigan’s heritage for generations to come.
RESULTS
The warehouse installation – completed in March 2021 – was a significant step in preserving Michigan’s historical items. Spacesaver’s storage solutions ensured proper storage for decades-old apparel, tools, and office equipment.
The integration of Spacesaver’s innovative storage solutions optimized the museum’s storage capabilities ensuring the requirements of the grant were met. The team’s planning and utilization of Spacesaver’s technology not only optimized storage but also provided a framework for maintaining the integrity and historical value of the artifacts. The impact of these space-saving solutions on the museum’s strategies was evident.
Since the implementation of Spacesaver solutions, the Michigan History Museum has experienced functionality and storage efficiency. Plans are underway to expand this success by considering additional Spacesaver Shelving solutions and Nantucket drawers. These plans, contingent upon securing funding, aim to further compartmentalize the diverse array of items housed in the off-site warehouse.
This collaboration not only optimized storage but also preserved Michigan’s historical legacy for future generations.
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