Planning suitable office furniture
New workstations, additional furniture and a complete fit-out need different levels of planning. Define the scope and what you want to retain so quotes address the same requirement.
What needs furnishing?
State actual demand rather than total employee numbers alone. Shared desks require the number used at once. Meeting or reception furniture needs its own quantities and dimensions.
| Project | Planning information |
|---|---|
| Workstations | Required desks and existing furniture |
| Additional furniture | Item types, quantities and intended dimensions |
| Complete fit-out | Area uses and planning scope |
Consider the layout and work
Furniture must fit the room and workflow. Check door movement, circulation, connections and shared areas. An item list does not replace this spatial coordination.
Choose adjustable workstations
Assess the desk and chair together for their users. Adjustments and clear instruction matter particularly for shared desks. A height-adjustment mechanism does not replace suitable setup and changes of posture.
Include existing furniture
Decide what to retain and replace. Check whether existing furniture can be adapted or refurbished and whether new pieces match. Compare condition, refurbishment cost and function rather than age or colour alone.
Separate furniture and other work
Acoustics, lighting, cabling, building work and disposal often need clarifying. Ask what the furniture supplier handles and what requires separate commissioning. A furniture quote should not appear to cover a complete building refurbishment.
Which costs should you compare?
Compare item prices, planning, delivery to the room, assembly and any removal of existing furniture. Identify bespoke items and special materials. Without a defined list or planning scope, a general per-workstation price is not a reliable comparison.
Check quotes and installation
Ask for clearly specified alternatives serving the same use. Coordinate delivery and fitting with access and office operations, then check completeness and function.
| Check | Clarify before accepting |
|---|---|
| Furniture | Model, quantity, size and included fittings |
| Services | Planning, assembly, removal and disposal separately |
| Use | Instructions, spares and agreed warranty |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a detailed furniture plan?
No. For a complete design, start with use, scope and existing furniture. For supply only, specify item types and quantities.
Does everything need replacing?
No. Assess condition, adaptation options and reuse costs with the supplier.
Is an adjustable desk enough?
The desk, chair, equipment and use must work together. Have the adjustments explained and try them.
Is assembly included?
The quote must specify this. Delivery into the building and packaging removal should also be clear.
Can I furnish only part of the office?
Yes. Specify the area and furniture so an unnecessary full fit-out is not quoted.
How should I prepare the enquiry?
Note the project, required desks or item quantities, location and timing. Photos, plans and finishes can follow.
