How to Choose the Right Number of Locker Compartments for Your Workforce

In modern offices, personal lockers are no longer just storage furniture; they have become an essential solution for optimizing space, maintaining aesthetics, and ensuring safety for employees and organizations alike. However, determining the right number of locker compartments based on workforce size and office area is a challenge that many business owners, architects, and design-build contractors face.

So how do you avoid underestimating or overinvesting in locker systems? In this article, TheMia explores practical methods to calculate the optimal number of lockers—ensuring convenience, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness for every type of workplace.

1. Why you need to calculate locker capacity carefully

1.1. Preventing storage shortages or wasted space

A locker system is only effective when designed with the right number of compartments:

• Too few compartments: Employees won’t have enough secure storage. This leads to clutter on desks—bags, laptops, jackets, and even shoes spilling into the workspace—which diminishes professionalism and can affect productivity.

• Too many compartments: Oversized locker systems eat up valuable floor space that could be used for workstations, meeting areas, or communal lounges. They also drive up costs in terms of purchase, maintenance, and cleaning.

The right balance ensures the office is organized, efficient, and cost-optimized.

1.2. Supporting visual harmony and brand image

When locker systems are aligned with workforce size, they create order and cohesion within the office. Neatly arranged rows of lockers, with finishes matching desks, chairs, and filing cabinets, convey a strong sense of organization and professionalism. This not only improves employee morale but also strengthens your corporate image in the eyes of visiting clients and partners.

2. How to determine the right number of locker compartments

2.1. Base it on current workforce and projected growth

A common mistake is to size lockers for current headcount only. To avoid replacements in the near future, always plan for 2–3 years of staff growth.

• Small businesses (<20 staff)

  • One or two units of 4–6 compartment lockers are usually sufficient.

  • Metal lockers with secure locks are the most cost-efficient choice.

  • These fit neatly in hallways or pantry areas without overwhelming space.

• Medium businesses (20–50 staff)

  • Lockers with 6–12 compartments, strategically placed in different areas, are recommended.

  • Mix in engineered wood lockers for improved aesthetics and better integration with desks.

  • Popular for agencies, IT companies, and design firms.

• Large businesses (>50 staff)

  • Modular lockers with 18–24 compartments are ideal, often deployed in clusters.

  • Advanced models feature ventilation slots and built-in charging outlets to store electronics safely.

  • Perfect for large corporations, coworking spaces, or shared offices.

2.2. Consider frequency of use and work models

Locker demand also depends on how the workforce operates:

• Hybrid or hot-desking models: Not every employee will need a locker simultaneously. In this case, 70–80% of actual staff headcount is enough.

• Fixed desk offices: Every employee should have at least one personal compartment.

2.3. Optimize for office area

• Small offices (<100m²): Choose tall, multi-tier lockers to maximize vertical space.

• Medium to large offices (>100m²): Wall-mounted or hallway lockers can be spread out for easy access.

• Premium offices: High-end veneer or glass-front lockers serve both storage and decorative purposes, complementing upscale interiors.

3. Popular locker models from TheMia

3.1. 4–6 compartment lockers

• Compact and versatile, ideal for smaller teams or shared areas.

• Available in multiple colors (white, gray, black).

• Easy to integrate in hallways, pantries, or next to workstations.

3.2. 12-compartment lockers with modular expansion

• Designed for medium to large businesses.

• Modules can be added or reduced based on staffing changes.

• Widely used in creative agencies and coworking hubs.

3.3. Anti-rust steel lockers with secure locks

• Highly durable and secure.

• Powder-coated finish prevents scratches and corrosion.

• Best suited for high-traffic workplaces with heavy daily use.

4. Benefits of choosing lockers from TheMia

• Expert consultation: TheMia helps calculate the exact number of compartments tailored to your workforce size and office area.

• Flexible design options: Wide range of materials (steel, engineered wood, veneer), layouts (tall, horizontal), and finishes to match your office style.

• Fast delivery & turnkey installation: Ensures your office setup stays on schedule with no hidden costs.

• Long-term warranty: Reliable after-sales support with prompt technical assistance when needed.

5. Final thoughts – TheMia’s smart locker solutions

Choosing the right number of locker compartments is not just about storage—it directly impacts employee satisfaction, workplace aesthetics, and long-term investment efficiency.

• Small offices can function perfectly with compact 4–6 compartment units.

• Medium-sized companies benefit from 12-compartment modular systems.

• Large enterprises and premium offices need expansive 18–24 compartment units with advanced features.

Whether you’re a business owner, architect, or design-build contractor, TheMia is ready to help you design the most effective locker solution. Contact us today via hotline 1900 0324 or fill out the form on our website for expert consultation and a fast quotation.

TheMia – Integrated, ergonomic, and modern office furniture solutions.