What are the benefits of ordering your School furniture early for Summer 2024?
With the new year upon us, schools will already be considering ordering school furniture as planning for construction, refurbishment and renovation projects for Summer 2024 begins, ahead of setting budgets in the Spring.
One often overlooked aspect of this process is the procurement of boarding accommodation as well as classroom furniture. While it might seem logical to look at specifying furniture and classroom layouts once you have the architect’s drawings and scope of works in place, there are a range of reasons why you should consider furniture as early as possible.
Ordering school furniture early can have a multitude of benefits that extend far beyond mere convenience.
Ensuring Timely Delivery
Ordering boarding accommodation furniture well in advance ensures that you receive your items on time, in line with your project timeline, and when your buildings are ready. Manufacturers and suppliers often face increased demand during peak seasons, which may lead to furniture being delayed as the order book is full.
By placing your order early, you mitigate the risk of unforeseen challenges and issues within the supply chain, allowing you to start the school year with fully equipped boarding houses and classrooms.
We provide the option for your furniture to be manufactured early and stored in our warehouse, covered by a vesting agreement. Delivery can then be planned for a time that suits the overall programme.
Bespoke Design and Layout
Early ordering allows you to take a creative and considered approach to space planning, as well as bespoke design considerations to meet your requirements.
Whether you need specific colours, designs, or custom configurations, giving suppliers ample time allows for a more personalised approach. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the classrooms and boarding accommodation but also ensures that the furniture meets the unique needs of the project.
Leaving furniture orders until the 11th hour restricts design freedom due to lead times on certain materials.
Optimise School Furniture Budget
Planning ahead allows schools to make more informed decisions about their budget. By avoiding the rush; you can compare prices, negotiate better deals, and explore cost-effective options.
This strategic approach to procurement ensures that you get the best value for your investment, without compromising on quality.
You also mitigate the risk of price increases and paying a premium for late orders to be delivered in a short timeframe.
Adapting to Unexpected Changes
Education is an ever-evolving landscape, and schools may need to adapt to unforeseen changes, such as a change to the build or layout from the Building Contractor. Involving us at the earliest opportunity, we can collaborate and adapt with all project stakeholders.
Ordering furniture early provides a buffer for adjustments, ensuring you have the flexibility to accommodate any unexpected developments without compromising the quality of the learning environment.
There are also a number of ways we can build in tolerances when committing to early manufacture, to allow a buffer for slight changes to room dimensions.
Collaborative Space Optimisation with Suppliers
Partnering with your furniture supplier early in the process opens the door to expert advice on space optimisation. Suppliers can provide valuable insights into maximising the functionality of your classrooms, libraries, and common areas.
This collaboration goes beyond delivering furniture – it involves a partnership in space planning to ensure that every square metre is utilised efficiently.
Avoiding Last-Minute Stress
The weeks leading up to the start of the school year are often hectic, with teachers and administrators immersed in various preparations. By tackling furniture procurement early in the process, you alleviate the stress associated with last-minute decisions, allowing your staff to focus on other crucial aspects of school preparation.
If you would like to understand how ordering school furniture can benefit your project, our team would be more than happy to help.
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