Mezzanines are considered an instant and cost-effective problem solver when a commercial building lacks available space. That’s because they can provide additional manufacturing, storage or office space without having to relocate.
However, as with any new building feature, it’s important to ensure certain objectives are met. Safety is always the number one consideration, but how the finished installation looks also counts.
Logical Storage Solutions specialises in the design and installation of mezzanine floors.
Regardless of why your building could benefit from the additional space provided by a mezzanine, these are our top tips on striking the perfect balance between safety and aesthetic appeal.
With Mezzanine Floors - Safety Always Comes First
We can speak on behalf of other mezzanine floor installers, but here at Logical Storage Solutions, we pride ourselves on high specification mezzanine installations. This means we bring the utmost level of experience and professionalism into our projects. It’s also a key reason why we’ve been enlisted to build mezzanines for well known ecommerce and distribution centres across the UK.
Far from just a sales pitch, ensuring that a mezzanine meets all of the required health and safety as well as building regulations is imperative. These can differ around the world, but here in the UK, there are strict standards which need to be adhered to.
As you can imagine, there is far more involving mezzanine safety that would ever fit into one blog post!
But to give you an idea, mezzanine safety needs to consider the likes of:
- Access
- Fire safety
- Lighting
- Protection from falls
- Signage
- Structural safety
Even if a mezzanine is required to offer a high degree of aesthetic appeal (i.e. if used for office, boardroom or showroom space), safety must still remain the priority within the approach to the design.
Aligning The Design With The Purpose Of The Mezzanine
While safety might be the primary concern of a mezzanine installation, thankfully, that doesn’t mean a total compromise in aesthetics.
Based on the usage intention of the mezzanine, our technicians will look at all available options in terms of the materials and interior finishes.
However when looks count, some of the options to explore may include:
- Steel which provides slim profiles and long spans, giving a modern or industrial look
- Concrete which is solid, fire-resistant and suitable for heavy loads
- Timber which offers a warm, natural aesthetic and also aligns with biophilic design principles
- Hybrid systems, i.e. mixing a steel frame with timber decking
- Engineered wood or hardwood flooring (i.e. for office mezzanines)
- Polished concrete or metal decking
- Glass panels (limited use, feature zones only and laminated for safety)
Of course, the best solution can look different for every mezzanine. However, the beauty of working with our professionals is that our initial project brief will cover every detail, so that in turn we can advise on the most suitable approach.
Staircases As Design Statements
Beyond providing basic access to a mezzanine, staircases can also be designed in a way that is functional or also considers aesthetic appeal.
Some of the basic requirements of a mezzanine staircase include:
- Consistent riser heights
- Non-slip treads
- Continuous handrails
- Adequate lighting
However, there may also be opportunities to go for a more design-led approach by using a different staircase design. Careful selections of the material choices and lighting can also work to move away from the standard industrial look in favour of a more contemporary style. Again, while the required safety aspects will still take priority, aesthetics certainly don’t have to be an afterthought.
Visual Integration With The Overall Space
When designing a mezzanine, it should look like it belongs in your commercial building, rather than an add-on.
Even within industrial environments, mezzanines can still be designed in a way that aligns with your brand identity.
Ideas to explore include aligning materials and colours with the main interior palette.
Elsewhere, other aspects relating to the design and construction of your mezzanine can be enhanced to provide both super safety and aesthetic appeal in one.
Design A Stunning Mezzanine With Logical Storage Solutions
Are you looking to install a mezzanine which boasts style and safety? At Logical Storage Solutions, your perfect mezzanine floor is just a call or click away.
Take a look around our website to view our mezzanine flooring solutions in full.
Or to ask any questions about starting a project, please send us a message or give us a call on 0845 689 1300.
