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Case Study: High-Density Shelving for Lacombe’s Historic Flat Iron Building

Westbow Systems

Lacombe Flat Iron Building Needed Space-Saving Solutions in a Unique Structure

The iconic Lacombe Flat Iron Building in Alberta is a historical gem with a unique triangular layout. When Melissa, the building’s manager, sought to optimize the basement for storage, she faced challenges. The triangular shape, narrow basement stairs, and need to preserve the building’s historical integrity all required a thoughtful, tailored solution.


Westbow Systems partnered with Melissa over two years to address these specific challenges while ensuring the solution aligned with the building’s heritage.


Designing Custom Shelving for a Triangular, Historic Building

Westbow Systems used innovative design to deliver high-density shelving that fit the unconventional triangular layout. The key elements of the project included:

  • Precision Planning with Trigonometry: Custom shelving units were designed to make the most of the basement’s angled walls while ensuring maximum storage space.

  • Light and Space Considerations: Shelving was intentionally kept shorter to allow natural light from the basement windows to filter through, and white shelving was chosen to reflect light, creating a brighter and more inviting space.

  • Respecting Historical Integrity: Every shelving piece was carefully carried down the narrow basement stairs and assembled onsite, minimizing disruptions to the building’s structure and ensuring historical preservation.


Efficient Solutions That Delivered Long-Lasting Results

The final installation provided Melissa with a seamless, space-efficient storage system tailored to the Flat Iron Building’s unique geometry.

  • Maximized Storage Space: The high-density shelving optimized every inch of the triangular layout.

  • Preserved Natural Light: The basement remained well-lit, maintaining a comfortable and functional environment.

  • Heritage-Friendly Execution: The entire project respected the building’s historical significance while adding modern utility.


Proudly Serving Alberta’s Heritage Properties

Westbow Systems specializes in custom storage solutions for historical and unique buildings across Alberta and Western Canada. Whether you’re managing a heritage property or navigating a challenging layout, we’ll help you maximize space without compromising integrity.


Need a custom storage solution for your historical property? Contact Westbow Systems today to start your project.



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