MILK CRATES Typical Dimensions: 13 in. long x 13 in. wide x 11 in. high (Square); or 18.75 in. long x 13 in. wide x 11 in. tall. (rectangular). Estimated Cost: Can often be reclaimed from waste stream or received via donation.$4.75 (square) or $8.00 (rectangular) / unit. Overview: Highly durable, light plastic containers that may be repurposed for a number of uses; easily movable and stackable (though not collapsible!). F Demo (1 day - 1 month) F Pilot (1 month - 1 year) Interim (1 - 5 years) Recommended Applications and Installation ɖAll ɖ Projects: Milk Crates can be used as a barrier elements or planters, and used just like the wooden planters described on page 36. ɖCurb ɖ Extensions / Plazas / Activated Alleys: Milk crates are durable enough to sit on and cost less than foldable chairs. Tips and Considerations »» Consider aesthetics, as milk crates may not be ideal for all projects - though colorful crates can be used to make certain projects “pop!” »» Note that while crates easily stack, they do not nest or fold, meaning storage and transport can be challenging if space is limited. Potential Sources »» Transport supply retailer, such as http://www.milkcratesdirect.com/ or www.uline.com
Milk crates are highly flexible and can be used/combined in a variety of contexts beyond the project types highlighted in this guide. Top: In Washington, DC, the Office of Planning used milk crate to create modular “shoplet” retail hubs for small / emerging businesses (Eric Shaw). Bottom: The 3x3 Project in Atlanta, GA uses milk creates to create movable, modular planters to grow food in unlikely places (3x3 Project).
MATERIALS PALETTE · Street Furniture · 61