Nick--

I would second David's comments.  You need to define what  functions
that space needs to serve for the types of temporary exhibits you
will have. As with most museum space needs, there are no rules of
thumb.

If the space is to be used just for the storage area as you describe
("packing cases, unused display cases, room dividers, lighting
fixtures, stands etc."), does the space even need to be adjacent to
the exhibit area?  Many museums store these kinds of things in
non-adjacent areas.  The prime space near exhibit areas  can often be
put to a better use.  Cases and fixtures can be moved as needed.

Another common function for an area adjacent to a temporary gallery
is for Exhibition Staging.  This allows you to assemble the
components of an exhibition in a space near the temporary exhibition
gallery so that the turn-around time between temporary exhibitions
can be shorter.  Such a Staging area is helpful if you plan to have
frequently changing exhibitions.

IF (that's a big "if") you will have receptions in the gallery, you
might also think of using a part of the space as a catering support
area--a space that is frequently neglected. The caterers could use it
for their own "back stage" setup.

You are on the right track here by asking how others use their spaces
and using that experience to guide your own decisions.

Good luck.

Guy

Guy Hermann
---------------------------------
E. Verner Johnson & Associates
Museum Architects & Planners
http://www.vernerjohnson.com
Boston, Massachusetts
voice: 617-437-6262
fax: 617-437-1272

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