Show me your Shops!!!

[SgtFang]

Ok, it looks like I'm going to try to put together a new, bigger shop later this summer, since the one here is getting a little cramped with all the new projects.

What I need is input and suggestions. I'd like to have enough room for a vacuform (at LEAST 24" x 24"), a small 10'x 10' enclosed office, and miles of bench space. I need to plan it in such a way though that it can easily be added to over time.

I think I'll be starting with a 24' x 24' garage kit from Menards and will be omitting the big garage door in favor of more counter space.

Any pics, and organizational ideas will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

-Sarge

 

[SgtFang]

Woohoo. I just got an estimate from them- it looks like I can get just the bare bones building kit for $2193.15 I'll have to prepare an area, and make a good sturdy floor first, but I think I might be able to actually swing this this summer sometime.

-Sarge

 

[KnightAsylum]

Well, I rarely know what the heck I am talking about but I will ramble on for a minute in case it sparks any other good ideas.
I always feel that the key to a great shop is organizing the work flow. Not to speak of your stuff in particular (cause I don't know enough about the process) but planning bench areas a little like an assembly line. Having areas group together by the type of work done (or a particular phase of work) that way you have all the typical things you use for that part of the process in one place. It keeps people from the constant wandering around getting equipment and supplies and bringing them back and forth, and keeps tools and supplies in their place. Basicly bringing the project to the tools/supplies (instead of bringing them to the project)
My only other thought is a general layout thing. Line the walls with counters and equipment so you max the wall space, have a few free standing tables/counters for projects you may want access too from all sides without moving it, and fill the center of the shop with solid build free standing shelving (like those industial type at Lowes - where each shelf can support a lot of weight.) Setting up those shelves in rows so you get the maxiumum shelf space in the area. The middle open area of a shop (unless it is a car/boat repair something big) is the most wasted space -so fill it up with larger equipment, and lots of shelves for supplies, Porjects in the works, and finished projects.
I know it is all general, and not really specific, but it is what came to mind when you asked the question. I don't have a shop (wish I just had a garage), but had a few jobs in the past that gave me some time in some different types of workspaces. For what it is worth.