Finding, buying and placing school furniture is not likely something you’re doing on a regular basis. We understand that it can seem overwhelming. Picking out the right furniture, finding it at a price that is within the school’s budget, and ensuring that you’re getting the most out of your design and layout is no small task.
As one of the leading school furniture companies in the country, we talk with school principals, district purchasing agents and teachers who need help finding the right furniture for their needs on a daily basis. They often have many of the same questions about finding, buying and placing school furniture, so we’ve put together a quick list of some of the things you’ll want to consider as you’re getting started.
First and foremost, it’s important that you know who you’re buying from, the manufacturers they carry, and the quality of the products they represent. You’ll want to partner with a company that not only has a wide catalog of products, but that also has a deep understanding and knowledge of those products. Your supplier will likely be your biggest ally throughout the process, so it is critical that you work with a company you can trust.
It should also be mentioned that school furniture is quite unique; it is unlike the office or home furniture you’re accustomed to purchasing. For this and many reasons, it is always best to work with a company that specializes in school furniture and that has the resources and connections to find and suggest the pieces that will best suit your needs.
Next, we want you to think about mobility and function. In most classrooms, the most effective teaching takes place when different teaching styles can be incorporated. Collaborative teaching generally requires that school furniture regularly be moved around and shifted.
In fact, some of the newer schools mandate that none of the furniture can be fixed — it all must be able to move. Think about teaching styles when you are planning a furniture purchase to be sure you are purchasing pieces that will fit the needs and styles of your teachers.
It may seem obvious, but children are not simply miniature humans. Therefore, school furniture, particularly for elementary age children, should not just be shrunken adult furniture. Think about the children in your school.
Make sure that you are purchasing furniture that is appropriate to their sizes. Seat heights should be proportionate to the heights of the kids in the classrooms, and the desks should fit their smaller frames.
As is true with most things, when it comes to your school furniture, you will want to be sure that you are purchasing quality pieces. Even if you get what you feel is a great deal up front because of the lower price, it won’t prove to be such a great deal when you are buying the same furniture again in just a few short years.
You should always consider the materials used, as well as the reputation of the piece for its longevity and ability to handle daily wear and tear.
Particularly in schools where children spend a large portion of their days, you want to fill the rooms with furniture that won’t harm them.
For instance, we work with manufacturers who are Greenguard certified, meaning that they are dedicated to environmental responsibility and sustainability in their business and manufacturing processes. Many people think that this commitment to sustainability, health and wellbeing means added costs, but that is not necessarily true.
This is another key factor in your overall satisfaction with your purchase. Think about the company that is standing behind the products that you are purchasing. You want to be sure that the company will be there to back up your purchases.
At The A&M Furniture Family, we pride ourselves on offering our clients exceptional service, so you can rest assured that your relationship with us does not end with the sale.
You’ve found the right school furniture that fits within your budget – but now someone has to deliver, put together and place your furniture. This can be quite a job!
Thankfully, if you are located in the Southern California area, we offer complimentary delivery and installation of any products that you purchase from us. No matter who you shop with, be sure delivery and installation are include in your quote.
These are just a few of the considerations we hope you think of when starting your research for school furniture. If you have any questions about any of our products, or if you are ready to get started in purchasing equipment for your school, please feel free to give us a call.
We offer our customers a superior selection with an extensive knowledge of our products, the best pricing, and unparalleled customer service and support. And remember, if you are looking for something that you don’t see on our site – let us know.
We will be more than happy to find it for you. Call or connect with us online today, and let’s get started.
