The Furniture Selection Process

H e l l o!

Up on the blog this week, it's all about the FF&E process.  We try to be good about not using too many acronyms at Delia Designs, but sometimes, we slip up. FF&E is one of those cases that comes up a lot as our interiors studio grows.  So, what does it mean?

The literal definition of FF&E is: Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment.  What it actually means, or can convey, is the "finishing" part of an interior design project.  So, while finishes aren't typically part of the FF&E procurement, they can be.  

Photo Cred:  Pinterest

Regardless of the exact scope of FF&E on a project, FF&E items need to be tracked carefully from the selection stage to their final placement in the building. Options need to be considered. Costs assigned. Final choices need to be approved. Procurement, delivery, and installation statuses need to be recorded. 

Photo Cred:  Pinterest

Throughout the FF&E process, a great deal of data needs to be gathered and shared among the project stakeholders. That data often resides in disconnected platforms, making it difficult to keep tabs on everything at once.

Managing the details of a new build, renovation or roll-out can be overwhelming.  The good news is that the right FF&E Interior Design partner can actually enhance your control, not compromise it.  A well-designed supply chain for your new construction or remodeling projects will result in increased revenues through improved time to market, as well as a significant number of opportunities to reduce project costs.

While price will be a factor when selecting a partner, make sure they can answer some important questions to your complete satisfaction.  If they can’t… be wary – any initial price savings will be erased and long forgotten by project’s end.

Control the Process 

Project management is difficult enough without the proper systems in place.  Your furniture provider should demonstrate an understanding of your industry and a proactive approach to keep your projects off the rocks.  Ultimately, working with a skilled interior design furniture provider can save you time and money.  A solid partner will increase your control, allowing you to manage by exception instead of chasing the details.

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Control the Information 

The key to your command and control of the details of your design project is receiving timely information.  Your interior designer should be able to communicate with your internal staff, vendors and purchasing groups with timely and accurate information, and keep you informed about those communications.  The status of your product should never be a question mark.  At Delia Designs, we keep you informed of issues that come up, and we provide real-time access to project progress.  We are able to highlight potential trouble spots, and help you plan for the future.

Control the Execution 

An effective interior designer will maximize your control over variables that result in savings well beyond typical freight, storage and installation discounts.  They’ll know the challenges of new builds and renovations.  They’ll acknowledge you need the right product at the right place at the right time.  They’ll understand project delays drastically affect revenue and profitability.  They’ll agree that success is not just completing the project, but completing it with flawless on-time execution of complex logistics.

Photo Cred:  Pinterest

In addition to being a Philadelphia Multifamily Interior Designer,  I also design boutique hotels, fitness centers, office spaces, residential development projects, other commercial spaces such as office and retail spaces, and the senior living community throughout the tri state area.  We work here in Philadelphia, the main line, and even Nationally! 

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