A few months ago, we moved into a house that had a smaller garage than our last house. It helped us to get a bit more organized, but I could only get rid of so much extra stuff. So now my garage is small, but pretty well organized. The problem is that aside from the overhead storage I put up, I've got a few shelving units, and they just aren't eye pleasing. I've begun chats with fellow OC member ZenGarage, and am considering some of his shelving systems. Do any of you have any other recommendations?

The shelves are much less cluttered today-- but you get the idea of where I'd like to swap the shelves for an enclosed solution.

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I have a few ideas for you. You have a nice start with your flooring but because your shelves are open, it looks cluttered. Install some cabinets off the floor on the back wall with some overhead shelves and your garage would look great. Our goal in every garage is to remove everything off the floor and put it behind cabinets.

I'll be calling you today or tomorrow to discuss your ideas. I jsut gotta do something.

I've never spoken to zengarage, but it looks like he's an expert on the subject.

I have a some beginner opinions though-

1- wall cabinets are great! Your garage will look less cluttered and your stuff won't get all dusty
2- I like smaller cabinets, as they're easier to mount, and easier to deal with if you move and take them with you
3- If you need a workbench, don't get a cheap bench. You want it sturdy and you want a tough top - solid wood (or a piece of Formica countertop)
3.5- use the space under the workbench for storage
4- If you want pull out drawers, make sure the slides have ball bearings in them.
5- Pick one brand that has all the units you'd like so that everything matches!

I completely agree with zen, ideally everything should be off the floor. check out griotsgarage.com for ideas and goodies, my favorite is the ceiling mounted auto-retracting fluorescent lamp with the built in electrical outlet. I use that thing all the time. You can go all out with something from ultimategarage.com or keep it cheap and simple by bolting some rubbermaid cabinets to the wall, it's all about how much time and money you want to invest.

but I'd start by painting the water heater hemi orange :)
________
MechelleAnne (http://www.girlcamfriend.com/cam/MechelleAnne/)

The idea behind our installations is that everything can be moved as your needs change. None of the cabinets, shelves, brackets or hooks that we install are permanant. Each is attached to slatwall so they can be easily moved. As far as a workbench is concerned, we sell a very heavy duty, folding one. It attaches to the wall with two brackets lift up when i use and easily fold away when not in use.

Griots garage is the way to go. If you don't buy from them, at least check them out for the ideas. They have really cool stuff.

Personally, I've got a garage full of the Gladiator Garageworks stuff, top notch stuff (With a price to match the quality too, though... :)

Some of the best prices Ive seen on Stainless storage units, and some other nice stuff. http://www.garage-toys.com/gafu.html and more http://www.garage-toys.com/pitpalgacaan.html