Valuable artwork is irreplaceable, and museums and galleries have a crucial responsibility to preserve art. However, as collections grow and storage space becomes limited, it can be challenging to store artwork properly and avoid poor practices like stacking paintings or restricting airflow. Fortunately, several art storage racks are available to store artwork while efficiently using limited storage space safely.
Our wide range of art storage racks keeps art safe and saves space. Several sliding storage systems utilize mesh panels that allow you to hang artwork of different sizes and weights in a compact area. The perforated mesh helps facilitate airflow to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. We offer sliding rack systems as well as static cabinets and shelving to accommodate the unique needs of your collection. (Check out more of our museum storage solutions here.)
Valuable artwork is irreplaceable, and museums and galleries have a crucial responsibility to preserve art. However, as collections grow and storage space becomes limited, it can be challenging to store artwork properly and avoid poor practices like stacking paintings or restricting airflow. Fortunately, several art storage racks are available to store artwork while efficiently using limited storage space safely.
Our wide range of art storage racks keeps art safe and saves space. Several sliding storage systems utilize mesh panels that allow you to hang artwork of different sizes and weights in a compact area. The perforated mesh helps facilitate airflow to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. We offer sliding rack systems as well as static cabinets and shelving to accommodate the unique needs of your collection. (Check out more of our museum storage solutions here.)
Read on to learn about the following efficient types of art storage racks:
- Ceiling-mounted pull-out panels
- Floor-mounted pull-out panels
- Modular pull-out art racks
- Lateral artwork storage racks
- High-density art storage racks
- Art display panels
- Framed art storage shelving
- Mobile artwork storage carts
- Flat file shelving and cabinets
Ceiling-Mounted Pull-Out Panels
Ceiling-mounted pull-out art storage racks are a practical and space-efficient method for storing artwork. Artwork hangs on double-sided mesh panels suspended from overhead aluminum tracks installed on the ceiling. To view and access artwork, pull out a panel using the handle on the front of the rack. The racks roll out with a polyurethane tracking wheel at the leading edge of the panel, eliminating the need for floor rails.
The ceiling-mounted pull-out system stores artwork safely. With the help of a frictionless roller-bearing trolley system, an anti-sway guide wheel, and a rear floor-anchored guide mechanism, the panels slide out smoothly and with minimal vibration. Additionally, a unique braking device controls deceleration by automatically slowing panel motion in the last 15” of movement in either direction. The braking device reduces the likelihood of jarring stops.
The ceiling-mounted pull-out art storage racks store artwork efficiently and safely while providing easy access to stored artwork. Due to the pull-out design, staff can conveniently access multiple panels at once. This flexible system can also showcase art to the public.
Floor-Mounted Pull-Out Panels
Floor-mounted pull-out art storage racks use the same pull-out panel design as the ceiling-mounted racks but mount on floor rails. These art storage racks are an excellent solution for spaces with suspended ceilings or where the floor can better support the system’s load than the ceiling.
Floor-mounted pull-out panels are engineered for stability. Overhead channels provide guidance, and the center-flange rail eliminates any gap between the rail and the flooring, resulting in smooth and safe operation.
Like the ceiling-mounted system, floor-mounted pull-out panels save space since they don’t require access aisles between the panels. The wire mesh racks space apart enough to maintain airflow, and panels slide out easily for access or display. Visit our online store to see our museum storage products.
Modular Pull-Out Art Racks
Modular pull-out art storage racks function similarly to the ceiling-mounted and floor-mounted systems, but they consist of freestanding units. While each framed unit does include posts and guidance rails anchored to the floor for stability, it still offers more flexibility than the previous options.
Since the modular art racks require no permanent modifications to the floor or ceiling, they relocate if needed. You can also add to the panel system as your collection expands. The modular pull-out art racks roll on guide wheels; they are equipped with built-in foot brakes and slide smoothly for safe operation.
The breathable screens are available in four different patterns: in addition to the standard woven wire and punched screen options. The modular panels are available in exclusive welded wire and aesthetic punched triangle configurations. You can choose which style of perforation best suits your artwork hanging preferences.
Lateral Artwork Storage Racks
Lateral artwork storage racks consist of a system of double-sided wire mesh panels that slide laterally on floor tracks. The compact design leaves room for one moveable access aisle between panels, providing generous space savings compared to a static alternative.
The lateral artwork storage racks utilize the same mesh storage panels that allow you to arrange and store artwork of all sizes. Unlike the pull-out storage racks, the panels slide laterally to provide access rather than sliding out from the system. The lateral artwork storage racks are an excellent solution for a limited storage area with insufficient space to pull a panel out entirely.
Stability features of the lateral artwork storage racks include roller bearing guide wheel assembles and in-rail anti-tip devices for all wheel sections. These wheels provide smooth operation and minimize the risk of tipping due to weight imbalances. When space efficiency is a priority, wheel sections can also nest for maximum density.
High-Density Art Storage Racks
High-density art storage racks resemble the lateral rack system, but the panels mount on mobile carriages instead of guide wheels. High-density storage systems offer extensive design freedom and configuration to meet your precise needs. Well-known for space-saving benefits, a high-density storage system can double your storage capacity in your existing footprint.
High-density art storage racks are available in mechanical-assist or powered systems. Also equipped with an anti-tip system, the mobile storage racks are great for heavier-duty framed art storage needs, although they can accommodate artwork of all sizes.
One key benefit of a high-density art storage system is the availability of security features. The systems have keyed or electronic locks to prevent unauthorized access to stored artwork. High-density art storage racks integrate easily into new or existing compact storage systems along with museum cabinets, shelving, and storage for other types of artifacts.
Art Display Panels
Static art display panels are a simple yet effective solution for storing and displaying artwork. Art display panels are available in both wall-mounted and freestanding options.
Wall-mounted art display panels hang on walls to provide a safe and efficient place to hang artwork. The wire mesh screens can be combined into configurations of virtually any size and are a perfect way to convert a sizeable unused wall into storage space. Wall-mounted art display panels are a practical solution for storing large works of art.
Freestanding art display panels consist of two mesh screens combined in a 16-gauge steel frame. The two screens ensure no interference with hooks on either side. The framework finish is a non-reactive solvent-free powder coating with no off-gassing. The freestanding art storage racks are available in a range of colors and are an excellent way to hang and display artwork safely.
Framed Art Storage Shelving
Framed art storage shelving is a simple way to safely and efficiently store your artwork, requiring no hardware installation. We offer a variety of shelving units designed to store works of art and protect them against agents of deterioration such as light, pests, and mold.
One practical art storage rack contains open artwork slots divided by steel rods. The rods and shelves are adjustable, allowing the shelving unit to accommodate paintings of all shapes and sizes. The steel rod dividers and open front and back provide optimal ventilation for stored artwork and make it easy to locate a specific painting. The unit’s closed sides and top help protect the stored artwork from exposure to light.
Alternative shelving units feature full steel dividers to keep each piece in an isolated compartment, steel back panels, and optional swinging doors for full enclosure. If you’re looking for a compact, traditional art shelving unit, check out our many options.
Mobile Artwork Storage Carts
Mobile artwork storage carts provide safe storage and transportation for framed artwork. Made of commercial-grade chrome wire, these carts facilitate maximum air circulation and make it easy to view, place, and remove the artwork.
The artwork storage carts have adjustable dividers and shelves, allowing them to house artwork of various sizes. For example, you could efficiently use space by storing smaller paintings on the upper level and larger artworks on the lower level.
These sturdy carts have a weight capacity of 1200 pounds per cart. They are NSF-approved for sanitation, and the carts assemble easily with a rubber mallet.
Flat File Shelving and Cabinets
You may opt for a flat file drawer cabinet, which can store works of art in individual drawers to protect them from threats like light exposure, dust, and pests. These space-efficient cabinets showcase artwork in your museum, allowing visitors to open the drawers to view the stored artwork. Alternatively, you might opt for steel shelving units with open shelves, which provide improved ventilation for stored art.
Read on to learn about the following efficient types of art storage racks:
- Ceiling-mounted pull-out panels
- Floor-mounted pull-out panels
- Modular pull-out art racks
- Lateral artwork storage racks
- High-density art storage racks
- Art display panels
- Framed art storage shelving
- Mobile artwork storage carts
- Flat file shelving and cabinets
Ceiling-Mounted Pull-Out Panels
Ceiling-mounted pull-out art storage racks are a practical and space-efficient method for storing artwork. Artwork hangs on double-sided mesh panels suspended from overhead aluminum tracks installed on the ceiling. To view and access artwork, pull out a panel using the handle on the front of the rack. The racks roll out with a polyurethane tracking wheel at the leading edge of the panel, eliminating the need for floor rails.
The ceiling-mounted pull-out system stores artwork safely. With the help of a frictionless roller-bearing trolley system, an anti-sway guide wheel, and a rear floor-anchored guide mechanism, the panels slide out smoothly and with minimal vibration. Additionally, a unique braking device controls deceleration by automatically slowing panel motion in the last 15” of movement in either direction. The braking device reduces the likelihood of jarring stops.
The ceiling-mounted pull-out art storage racks store artwork efficiently and safely while providing easy access to stored artwork. Due to the pull-out design, staff can conveniently access multiple panels at once. This flexible system can also showcase art to the public.
Floor-Mounted Pull-Out Panels
Floor-mounted pull-out art storage racks use the same pull-out panel design as the ceiling-mounted racks but mount on floor rails. These art storage racks are an excellent solution for spaces with suspended ceilings or where the floor can better support the system’s load than the ceiling.
Floor-mounted pull-out panels are engineered for stability. Overhead channels provide guidance, and the center-flange rail eliminates any gap between the rail and the flooring, resulting in smooth and safe operation.
Like the ceiling-mounted system, floor-mounted pull-out panels save space since they don’t require access aisles between the panels. The wire mesh racks space apart enough to maintain airflow, and panels slide out easily for access or display. Visit our online store to see our museum storage products.
Modular Pull-Out Art Racks
Modular pull-out art storage racks function similarly to the ceiling-mounted and floor-mounted systems, but they consist of freestanding units. While each framed unit does include posts and guidance rails anchored to the floor for stability, it still offers more flexibility than the previous options.
Since the modular art racks require no permanent modifications to the floor or ceiling, they relocate if needed. You can also add to the panel system as your collection expands. The modular pull-out art racks roll on guide wheels; they are equipped with built-in foot brakes and slide smoothly for safe operation.
The breathable screens are available in four different patterns: in addition to the standard woven wire and punched screen options. The modular panels are available in exclusive welded wire and aesthetic punched triangle configurations. You can choose which style of perforation best suits your artwork hanging preferences.
Lateral Artwork Storage Racks
Lateral artwork storage racks consist of a system of double-sided wire mesh panels that slide laterally on floor tracks. The compact design leaves room for one moveable access aisle between panels, providing generous space savings compared to a static alternative.
The lateral artwork storage racks utilize the same mesh storage panels that allow you to arrange and store artwork of all sizes. Unlike the pull-out storage racks, the panels slide laterally to provide access rather than sliding out from the system. The lateral artwork storage racks are an excellent solution for a limited storage area with insufficient space to pull a panel out entirely.
Stability features of the lateral artwork storage racks include roller bearing guide wheel assembles and in-rail anti-tip devices for all wheel sections. These wheels provide smooth operation and minimize the risk of tipping due to weight imbalances. When space efficiency is a priority, wheel sections can also nest for maximum density.
High-Density Art Storage Racks
High-density art storage racks resemble the lateral rack system, but the panels mount on mobile carriages instead of guide wheels. High-density storage systems offer extensive design freedom and configuration to meet your precise needs. Well-known for space-saving benefits, a high-density storage system can double your storage capacity in your existing footprint.
High-density art storage racks are available in mechanical-assist or powered systems. Also equipped with an anti-tip system, the mobile storage racks are great for heavier-duty framed art storage needs, although they can accommodate artwork of all sizes.
One key benefit of a high-density art storage system is the availability of security features. The systems have keyed or electronic locks to prevent unauthorized access to stored artwork. High-density art storage racks integrate easily into new or existing compact storage systems along with museum cabinets, shelving, and storage for other types of artifacts.
Art Display Panels
Static art display panels are a simple yet effective solution for storing and displaying artwork. Art display panels are available in both wall-mounted and freestanding options.
Wall-mounted art display panels hang on walls to provide a safe and efficient place to hang artwork. The wire mesh screens can be combined into configurations of virtually any size and are a perfect way to convert a sizeable unused wall into storage space. Wall-mounted art display panels are a practical solution for storing large works of art.
Freestanding art display panels consist of two mesh screens combined in a 16-gauge steel frame. The two screens ensure no interference with hooks on either side. The framework finish is a non-reactive solvent-free powder coating with no off-gassing. The freestanding art storage racks are available in a range of colors and are an excellent way to hang and display artwork safely.
Framed Art Storage Shelving
Framed art storage shelving is a simple way to safely and efficiently store your artwork, requiring no hardware installation. We offer a variety of shelving units designed to store works of art and protect them against agents of deterioration such as light, pests, and mold.
One practical art storage rack contains open artwork slots divided by steel rods. The rods and shelves are adjustable, allowing the shelving unit to accommodate paintings of all shapes and sizes. The steel rod dividers and open front and back provide optimal ventilation for stored artwork and make it easy to locate a specific painting. The unit’s closed sides and top help protect the stored artwork from exposure to light.
Alternative shelving units feature full steel dividers to keep each piece in an isolated compartment, steel back panels, and optional swinging doors for full enclosure. If you’re looking for a compact, traditional art shelving unit, check out our many options.
Mobile Artwork Storage Carts
Mobile artwork storage carts provide safe storage and transportation for framed artwork. Made of commercial-grade chrome wire, these carts facilitate maximum air circulation and make it easy to view, place, and remove the artwork.
The artwork storage carts have adjustable dividers and shelves, allowing them to house artwork of various sizes. For example, you could efficiently use space by storing smaller paintings on the upper level and larger artworks on the lower level.
These sturdy carts have a weight capacity of 1200 pounds per cart. They are NSF-approved for sanitation, and the carts assemble easily with a rubber mallet.
Flat File Shelving and Cabinets
You may opt for a flat file drawer cabinet, which can store works of art in individual drawers to protect them from threats like light exposure, dust, and pests. These space-efficient cabinets showcase artwork in your museum, allowing visitors to open the drawers to view the stored artwork. Alternatively, you might opt for steel shelving units with open shelves, which provide improved ventilation for stored art.
Read on to learn about the following efficient types of art storage racks:
- Ceiling-mounted pull-out panels
- Floor-mounted pull-out panels
- Modular pull-out art racks
- Lateral artwork storage racks
- High-density art storage racks
- Art display panels
- Framed art storage shelving
- Mobile artwork storage carts
- Flat file shelving and cabinets
Ceiling-Mounted Pull-Out Panels
Ceiling-mounted pull-out art storage racks are a practical and space-efficient method for storing artwork. Artwork hangs on double-sided mesh panels suspended from overhead aluminum tracks installed on the ceiling. To view and access artwork, pull out a panel using the handle on the front of the rack. The racks roll out with a polyurethane tracking wheel at the leading edge of the panel, eliminating the need for floor rails.
The ceiling-mounted pull-out system stores artwork safely. With the help of a frictionless roller-bearing trolley system, an anti-sway guide wheel, and a rear floor-anchored guide mechanism, the panels slide out smoothly and with minimal vibration. Additionally, a unique braking device controls deceleration by automatically slowing panel motion in the last 15” of movement in either direction. The braking device reduces the likelihood of jarring stops.
The ceiling-mounted pull-out art storage racks store artwork efficiently and safely while providing easy access to stored artwork. Due to the pull-out design, staff can conveniently access multiple panels at once. This flexible system can also showcase art to the public.
Floor-Mounted Pull-Out Panels
Floor-mounted pull-out art storage racks use the same pull-out panel design as the ceiling-mounted racks but mount on floor rails. These art storage racks are an excellent solution for spaces with suspended ceilings or where the floor can better support the system’s load than the ceiling.
Floor-mounted pull-out panels are engineered for stability. Overhead channels provide guidance, and the center-flange rail eliminates any gap between the rail and the flooring, resulting in smooth and safe operation.
Like the ceiling-mounted system, floor-mounted pull-out panels save space since they don’t require access aisles between the panels. The wire mesh racks space apart enough to maintain airflow, and panels slide out easily for access or display. Visit our online store to see our museum storage products.
Modular Pull-Out Art Racks
Modular pull-out art storage racks function similarly to the ceiling-mounted and floor-mounted systems, but they consist of freestanding units. While each framed unit does include posts and guidance rails anchored to the floor for stability, it still offers more flexibility than the previous options.
Since the modular art racks require no permanent modifications to the floor or ceiling, they relocate if needed. You can also add to the panel system as your collection expands. The modular pull-out art racks roll on guide wheels; they are equipped with built-in foot brakes and slide smoothly for safe operation.
The breathable screens are available in four different patterns: in addition to the standard woven wire and punched screen options. The modular panels are available in exclusive welded wire and aesthetic punched triangle configurations. You can choose which style of perforation best suits your artwork hanging preferences.
Lateral Artwork Storage Racks
Lateral artwork storage racks consist of a system of double-sided wire mesh panels that slide laterally on floor tracks. The compact design leaves room for one moveable access aisle between panels, providing generous space savings compared to a static alternative.
The lateral artwork storage racks utilize the same mesh storage panels that allow you to arrange and store artwork of all sizes. Unlike the pull-out storage racks, the panels slide laterally to provide access rather than sliding out from the system. The lateral artwork storage racks are an excellent solution for a limited storage area with insufficient space to pull a panel out entirely.
Stability features of the lateral artwork storage racks include roller bearing guide wheel assembles and in-rail anti-tip devices for all wheel sections. These wheels provide smooth operation and minimize the risk of tipping due to weight imbalances. When space efficiency is a priority, wheel sections can also nest for maximum density.
High-Density Art Storage Racks
High-density art storage racks resemble the lateral rack system, but the panels mount on mobile carriages instead of guide wheels. High-density storage systems offer extensive design freedom and configuration to meet your precise needs. Well-known for space-saving benefits, a high-density storage system can double your storage capacity in your existing footprint.
High-density art storage racks are available in mechanical-assist or powered systems. Also equipped with an anti-tip system, the mobile storage racks are great for heavier-duty framed art storage needs, although they can accommodate artwork of all sizes.
One key benefit of a high-density art storage system is the availability of security features. The systems have keyed or electronic locks to prevent unauthorized access to stored artwork. High-density art storage racks integrate easily into new or existing compact storage systems along with museum cabinets, shelving, and storage for other types of artifacts.
Art Display Panels
Static art display panels are a simple yet effective solution for storing and displaying artwork. Art display panels are available in both wall-mounted and freestanding options.
Wall-mounted art display panels hang on walls to provide a safe and efficient place to hang artwork. The wire mesh screens can be combined into configurations of virtually any size and are a perfect way to convert a sizeable unused wall into storage space. Wall-mounted art display panels are a practical solution for storing large works of art.
Freestanding art display panels consist of two mesh screens combined in a 16-gauge steel frame. The two screens ensure no interference with hooks on either side. The framework finish is a non-reactive solvent-free powder coating with no off-gassing. The freestanding art storage racks are available in a range of colors and are an excellent way to hang and display artwork safely.
Framed Art Storage Shelving
Framed art storage shelving is a simple way to safely and efficiently store your artwork, requiring no hardware installation. We offer a variety of shelving units designed to store works of art and protect them against agents of deterioration such as light, pests, and mold.
One practical art storage rack contains open artwork slots divided by steel rods. The rods and shelves are adjustable, allowing the shelving unit to accommodate paintings of all shapes and sizes. The steel rod dividers and open front and back provide optimal ventilation for stored artwork and make it easy to locate a specific painting. The unit’s closed sides and top help protect the stored artwork from exposure to light.
Alternative shelving units feature full steel dividers to keep each piece in an isolated compartment, steel back panels, and optional swinging doors for full enclosure. If you’re looking for a compact, traditional art shelving unit, check out our many options.
Mobile Artwork Storage Carts
Mobile artwork storage carts provide safe storage and transportation for framed artwork. Made of commercial-grade chrome wire, these carts facilitate maximum air circulation and make it easy to view, place, and remove the artwork.
The artwork storage carts have adjustable dividers and shelves, allowing them to house artwork of various sizes. For example, you could efficiently use space by storing smaller paintings on the upper level and larger artworks on the lower level.
These sturdy carts have a weight capacity of 1200 pounds per cart. They are NSF-approved for sanitation, and the carts assemble easily with a rubber mallet.
Flat File Shelving and Cabinets
You may opt for a flat file drawer cabinet, which can store works of art in individual drawers to protect them from threats like light exposure, dust, and pests. These space-efficient cabinets showcase artwork in your museum, allowing visitors to open the drawers to view the stored artwork. Alternatively, you might opt for steel shelving units with open shelves, which provide improved ventilation for stored art.
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Contact Us for Art Storage Racks
Southwest Solutions Group® provides design and installation services for art storage racks for museums. We will also provide a free consultation to determine your exact needs and specifications before the design begins. To learn more or to speak with a specialist, call us at 1-800-803-1083 or send us a message today.
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Museum Testimonials
“I want to thank your entire team for the outstanding work on our art storage project. The process from beginning to end was smooth and enjoyable, and the finished room looks terrific! Chester, Bryan, Chris, Chris, and the other members were extremely thorough and a pleasure to work with. They followed our house rules and took our direction very well. Thanks again for an outstanding project, and I look forward to working with Southwest Solutions in the future should the opportunity arise. ”
“The new art racks are massive and beautiful! I cannot wait to hang art on the racks with those fancy hooks, wow! Thank you for helping me see the project through. The efforts of your team and installation really made the project go very smoothly and on time. We look forward to showing off the new and improved art storage room to our Director, Board Members, and Staff. Thanks a million, it has been a pleasure to work with you and your wonderful team on our paintings storage area.”
“I would like to thank you and your team at Southwest Solutions Group for working with the museum so diligently over the years. I also want to thank you personally for your patience, professionalism and great attitude as we’ve navigated the sometimes bumpy road to completing the Blanton Phase I and Phase II. Southwest Solutions Group will certainly be at the very top of my list for any future museum storage needs.”
“Southwest Solutions Group is an amazing company made so much better by having Daryl at the helm of Museum and Library storage space saving designs in the NW. Daryl is not only an expert in high density shelving systems, but he consistently tunes into optimizing long term solutions to complex storage needs and pliable projects. Always reliable and knowledgeable, Daryl and his Spacesaver’s team have been indispensable partners in our world of cultural preservation.”
See more museum testimonials