A world first in modular shelving
The Frank Modular Shelving System is a neat and elegant, free-standing display system that can be arranged in a variety of formats tailored to the needs of its owner, whether for domestic or contract purpose.
Why Frank?
Because existing shelving systems involve at least one of the following conditions which limit flexibility of situation and layout:
- a frame that is fixed to a wall at several points
- supports which are fixed to the frame at set locations
- shelves which are fixed to the frame at specific points
- shelves which are fixed to their supports at specific points.
Because the Frank System is straightforward, open and no-nonsense.
The Frank Modular Shelving System is a unique alternative which provides an almost infinite variation of arrangement and requires no fixing. Its agile design means it can be repurposed to different configurations. The components can be re-arranged to meet changing circumstances and purpose, adapting to the evolving requirements of workplace or home.
How does Frank work?
Frank is a simple arrangement of stacked components, consisting of shelves and supports. A base shelf is laid on a level surface or upon a custom-designed levelling plinth, providing a stable foundation for the System. Supports are placed where appropriate and the next shelf laid on top.
Frank works best where there is existing structural support, such as in an alcove.
Frank may also be used as a room divider. In this free-standing context, lateral movement is unrestricted and some fixing of supports or structural bracing is required; this would still allow an almost infinite variation in layout options within the System itself.
Frank’s Unique Design
Frank’s linear design allows the System to be manufactured from almost any rigid material, meeting specification for both low cost domestic and high-end contract commissions. The client will choose the material that best suits their purpose, situation and budget with assurance that the System will always be adaptable to change of use, due to its robust and variable design. Each System is designed according to the client’s brief and intended use and we can work with the client to design the layout prior to assembly, or on site to create a more spontaneous result.
The L-shaped (90˚) spacers are an intrinsic part of the Frank System’s design. The unique design of the spacers prevents lateral movement of the System and gives it stability.
The greater the weight applied to each layer of shelving, the greater its stability. It is not necessary to fix any one part of the System to another, or indeed to the wall against which it is placed. If wall fixing is required, it is sufficient to have only the top spacers fixed to the wall to prevent movement of everything below the fixing point.

Spacers are designed to maximise options for display space and may also serve as dividers, as props for displayed objects and as bookends.
The height of each pair of Frank spacers is determined by intended use.
Depending on the material chosen, spacers may be fixed or hinged for flat-pack convenience. They may be open structured for enhanced uninterrupted display, solid or shaped.
Provided there is appropriate contact with the shelf above, spacers may also be personalised.

With existing structural bracing, such as a wall at one end of the System, a minimum of one 90˚ spacer per shelf is required.

Without existing structural bracing, the System requires a minimum of two 90˚ spacers per shelf.
Additional single-plane spacers may be added to span large gaps between, or either side of, the 90˚ spacers.
When located in an alcove, only single-plane spacers are required
Layout options
Spacers may be placed in the user’s desired configuration at any point along each shelf provided there is sufficient support for the shelves above.




Shelves may be lined up to their outer edges or cantilevered.
The extent of any cantilever is determined by the rigidity of the shelving material and restricted only by the weight of what is placed upon it.
Variations
The use of two shorter shelves in place of one long shelf, creates a larger display space within the Frank System.
The size of the resulting space is determined by the rigidity of the client’s chosen shelving material



If a cupboard feature is required, doors may simply be fitted to 90˚ spacers.
For a drawer unit a standalone component may be used in place of 90˚ spacers.
How does Frank look?








These examples demonstrate the same System in three different settings. Spare shelves doubled up
Detail



Components and composition
Shelves – Base shelf which is either:
- laid on flat floor
- laid on a levelling plinth
- supported at height on an existing base or in a recess or alcove
– Additional shelves to the client’s specification
Spacers – Two 90o spacers per shelf
– Additional single-plane spacers are determined by the overall span
Material
Any structurally rigid linear material:
- solid timber
- plywood
- particle board
- toughened glass
- metal
- stone
- a range of polymer materials
Combinations of material are also possible




granite / stainless-steel Corten steel / Carrera marble
Dimensions
- Vertical dimension is defined by the thickness of the shelf and the desired distances between shelves
- Horizontal dimensions are defined by the desired depth of the shelves and span
- Spacers are ideally, but not restricted to, the same dimensions as the thickness of the shelf
Assembly

- Levelling plinth if required
- Base shelf laid on plinth
- Spacers placed on base shelf and positioned where required.
- L-shaped spacers placed with one plane flat against the wall or in line with the front of the shelf, the other plane at 90o
- Single plane spacers placed perpendicular to the front of the shelf, flat against the wall or in line with the front of the shelf
- Second shelf laid on top
- For subsequent shelves and spacers repeat from step 3
- Finish with final shelf at desired end height