What is FF&E and why is it important?

FF&E is an important element in the design of any interior space. Not only can it help enhance it aesthetically, but it also serves as an essential component for the functioning of the space. Let’s find out in more detail what FF&E is and why it’s important.

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What is FF&E?

FF&E (which stands for furniture, fixtures and equipment) is used across a range of sectors, including business, healthcare, hospitality and education. Within education FF&E is essential for the creation of effective and unique learning environments.

The term FF&E is used to describe any items within an interior project that is not physically or permanently connected to a building structure. When planning a budget, FF&E should be included in the total cost of a project.

Any furniture or fittings that are not included in the contract between the site owner and building contractor can also be included. Furniture, fixtures, and equipment does not have any connection to a building's utilities.

As a building contractor is not usually involved in the supply of furniture or fixtures, an interior designer or another design team will fulfil this requirement. No furniture or fixtures are indicated on the blueprints or construction plans either allowing for a more creative design process.

To help others better understand what FF&E items are, an analogy is sometimes used. If you were to remove the roof and turn a building upside down, FF&E would be all the items that fall out. FF&E can also be used for classifying assets in accounting.

Examples of FF&E

Here are some examples of items that can be classed as FF&E.

• Classroom equipment, such as student tables, chairs, storage, wall decorations, teaching boards.

• Office furniture, including filing cabinets, computers, lighting, desks, and chairs.

• Science lab installations, including worktops with chemical resistant-properties, storage and hanging units for bags and coats.

• Workshops, including worktops, machinery, and tools.

Furniture, fixtures, and equipment can usually be determined if it:

• has a usable life of one year or more (equipment with a single or perishable life is considered OS&E).

• Can easily be removed from the building.

• is not sold by the organisation.

• does not cause damage to the building if removed, such as fixed plumbing.

What’s the difference between FF&E and OS&E?

Another term that is often associated with FF&E is OS&E. Unlike the fixtures and furniture of a room, OS&E covers the supply of any resources that is essential for your organisation's day-to-day running.

OS&E (which stands for operating supplies and equipment) are items that an organisation will need to procure regularly. FF&E is considered for the long term, while OS&E is only for the short term. Find out more about OS&E.

What is not classed as FF&E?

Now we’ve covered what OS&E is, we’ll give some examples of what is not included in FF&E. These items are typically considered OS&E:

• Supplies, such as art supplies, student notebooks, pens, paper, ink, science chemicals.

• Uniforms, including sports kits.

• Cleaning equipment and supplies, toiletry items.

At Learning Space Solutions, we also provide resource sourcing and supply for international schools. With a brand-new procurement platform, schools can better control and manage the procurement of supplies.

Why is FF&E important?

FF&E plays a crucial role in the creation of effective learning environments. Not only does it allow you to elevate the aesthetics and functionality of a space, but it also provides a way to save time and money.

Furniture, fixtures & equipment are important to the learning environment as they can:

• Help to elevate the design of a space, including the aesthetic appeal.

• Help to enhance the functionality of a learning space.

• Boost the value of both the space and the organisation.

• Help to achieve a cohesive design, both in terms of the interior space and the organisation's image.

To get the best outcome FF&E designers will often work together with architects and contractors to help meet client expectations. Involving the client at each stage of the FF&E process can also help to improve the success of a given space.

Creating visualisations is an important element of FF&E design. Creating visual designs, plans and walkthroughs allow the client to better visualise what a space will look like when finished. Once designs are approved, the laborious step of FF&E design and installation takes place - procurement.

While in some cases you may need to hire a separate procurement agent, working with specialist agencies that combine FF&E design and procurement can improve the overall process.

At Learning Space Solutions, we contribute our specialist project knowledge and global experience throughout the design and installation process, for a smoother and easier FF&E implementation.

Getting the procurement right is essential for the delivery of a successful project. Items need to arrive at the right time to ensure delays or unnecessary storage of items do not occur. We work in close collaboration with clients and partners to optimise the procurement process and bring out the best in a learning environment.

Here are some of the benefits that can be gained when working with a professional FF&E provider, such as Learning Space Solutions:

• The right furniture for your business and needs will be carefully selected

• Access to a high-quality distribution network for better sourcing of furniture and equipment

• Any project will be delivered to your needs and budget without compromising on the quality of a design.

• Expertise and experience in all areas of FF&E, including designing, sourcing, and installation.

• In-depth knowledge on the importance of the aesthetics and functionality of a space.

Without the correct furniture, fixtures, and equipment, you’ll fail to achieve the right mood, atmosphere, and function within your interior space. To achieve a successful design, careful planning and considerations should be made to ensure your learning spaces contribute to educational success.

Discover more about how we can help create unique learning spaces for learning success