Let’s face it – college dorm room furniture experiences heavy use from some pretty tough customers. Choosing furnishings that are poor quality or that lack durability will increase the amount of money you spend to maintain them. Finding the right dorm room furniture manufacturer is the best approach to saving money in the long term, as superior quality will reduce the need for frequent repairs or replacement. But, how do you know what manufacturer is best for your needs?
While style is important, there are several other critical factors that should be considered when choosing student housing furniture, including its craftsmanship, environmental friendliness, durability, and affordability. These qualities will ensure you obtain sustainable, long-lasting solutions for every dorm room and student lounge on campus. Here are a few key characteristics to look for when evaluating dormitory furniture suppliers.
Comfort & Style
Comfortable, stylish furniture is a top priority for providing attractive and functional dorm rooms and common areas. Every piece should offer lasting comfort and stand up against wear. The provider you choose must be able to offer innovative designs with stylish colors to appeal to both students and your budget. A great manufacturer will always be on the lookout for new styles and materials to promote both of these qualities.
Quality Craftsmanship
The applied craftsmanship and manufacturing techniques are imperative to producing dormitory furniture capable of withstanding heavy use. If furniture is constructed with substandard quality supplies such as inexpensive panel materials, then it won’t survive in these demanding environments. Modular construction and materials will assure durability under the most extreme circumstances. Here are a few craftsmanship traits to look for when selecting a dormitory furniture supplier:
- Real, Kiln Dried Hardwood
- Heavy-Gauge Inner Springs
- Use of Double-Stitching for Seams
- Steel Bed Platforms
- Solid Wood Headboards
- Heavy-Duty Drawer Slides
Dormitory furniture suppliers who truly understand the environment where these items will be used will employ deliberate craftsmanship techniques to boost durability. Manufacturers who use a modular construction that’s simple to repair with replacement components will save you money in the long run. Every reinforcement guarantees a longer lasting piece of furniture. A quality design also increases cost savings by preventing the need for quick repairs or replacements.
Environmental Friendliness & Sustainability
Environmental considerations are just as important as craftsmanship, durability, and style because they ensure the manufacturer is taking the right precautions when creating their products. Many companies claim they are sustainable; however, there are a few key traits to look for before taking a company’s word for it. For example, how many years has the furnishing provider practiced sustainability? Making a couple small production changes within the last month to reduce waste is a good start, but it’s not indicative of comprehensive sustainable business practices.
It’s important to look for a manufacturer who has been a leader when it comes to sustainable furnishing solutions. A true innovator in sustainability will use resources and practices such as:
- Recycled Steel Materials
- Reclaimed Leathers and Fabrics
- Fast-Growing Renewable Hardwoods
- Engineering Techniques to Reduce Waste
- PVC-free Textile Options
- Environmentally Friendly Finishes
These practices reduce the amount of materials needed as well as limit the amount of harmful chemicals introduced into the environment. Another important environmental quality for dormitory furniture suppliers is taking measures to reduce Hazardous Airborne Pollutants (HAP’s) and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s). Each of these practices reduces the impact college dorm room furniture has on the environment.
Exceptional Customer Service
Suppliers should go the extra mile for their customers. This includes offering lifetime support for every piece of furniture you buy. A quality supplier will provide a dedicated 800 number for their customers, assign you an account project manager, and provide easy options for ordering products. Dormitory furniture suppliers who are able to offer the following will greatly enhance your service experience:
- Interior Design Services
- Customized Order Support
- White Glove Installation
- Space Optimization Advice
- Lifetime Warranties and Support
There is more to the job than simply selling a piece of furniture; quality manufacturers know this and make customer satisfaction a top priority. If the provider you are evaluating does not offer the services outlined above, then they are probably not the right furnishing choice. Be certain to assess their post-purchase and install support as well to ensure they will be there long after your furniture arrives!
Custom Design Options
Now that we have covered the demand for comfort, style, durability, craftsmanship, and sustainability, let’s consider another important option: customization. While a diverse selection of ready-made furniture is desirable, it’s also important to work with a dorm furniture provider who’s capable of making customized pieces as needed. Sometimes the stock furniture available won’t meet your specific needs. In these situations, it is critical to have a college dorm room furniture supplier who is willing and able to:
- Listen to Design Needs
- Offer Interior Design Assistance
- Define a Project to Meet Unique Specifications
- Offer a Broad Range of Finishes and Materials
- Deliver Beautiful, Lasting Results
The right furnishing provider will listen to your needs and develop a design that works for you! Customization is always a great perk to have in your back pocket for unexpected or out of the ordinary furnishing needs.
Ecologic Furniture is a sustainable student housing furnishing manufacturer that uses only the highest quality craftsmanship to create comfortable, stylish, and durable pieces. We pride ourselves on offering a superior level of service, including interior design consultation, furniture customization, and white glove installation to ensure your dormitory furniture is exceptional in every way.
Why is Ecologic Furniture your best option to be you dorm room furniture manufacturer? Fill out our form or call us at (847) 234-5855 and find out!
ECOLOGIC’S product solutions are designed and constructed for the demanding needs of the residence life market.
With our EcoCare® program you enjoy complete customer support for the lifetime of your furniture.
Our furniture is engineered and manufactured to the highest standards and will give years of maintenance-free service.
For over 25 years, now we have been a pioneer in sustainable business practices, recycling and green manufacturing.
Our team is available to help you customize and develop your project to your specifications.
Our customer service agents are happy to provide more information, answer any questions, or even create a quote for you! Call us now! (847) 234-5855 or use our form.