A crate or barrier structure utilizes frames forming the sides of the crate or part of the barrier which include vertical or horizontal wires spaced apart from one another and extending codirectionally. Discrete structural design elements are welded, or otherwise fastened, to two or more of the wires, but not all, such that at least two of the wires are interconnected over a given one of the design elements. By placing a plurality of such design elements at various locations within a given one of the frames comprising the crate or barrier so as to interconnect different ones of the wires, enhanced support is provided without having to provide continuous wires crosswise to the vertical or horizontal wires.