Case Study
Elevating Campus Housing at Furman University
Introduction
Furman University’s multi-year student housing renovation project demanded more than durable furniture. It required a partner capable of navigating tight timelines, supporting sustainability initiatives, and delivering spaces designed around the evolving needs of students. Working closely with the university throughout each phase of the project, Foliot provided responsive service, strategic coordination, and adaptable furniture solutions that helped elevate the on-campus living experience.
Challenges
Furman University was facing a multi-faceted challenge— juggling the stresses that come with meeting tight timelines, evolving student expectations, and ambitious sustainability goals. Foliot approached each of these challenges with innovative solutions, precision planning, and tailored solutions.
Tight project timelines
Renovating entire residence halls and apartments within a single semester was no small feat. Furman’s tight installation windows required precise coordination among multiple vendors.
Foliot’s solution: Foliot developed a seamless project schedule aligned with all relevant timelines, ensuring the renovations were completed without delays.
Aesthetic and branding consistency
It was critical to maintain a cohesive aesthetic that both complemented Furman’s warm, wood-grain branding and integrated existing furniture.
Foliot’s solution: By offering non-standard laminate options and custom design elements, Foliot created furniture that perfectly aligned with Furman’s branding and enhanced the student living experience.
Student-centric design
Furman needed furniture that adapted to the wide range of preferences and needs of its students, emphasizing functionality, discreet storage, and appropriate bed height.
Foliot’s solution: Foliot delivered versatile furniture balancing usability, comfort, and durability. The result? Overwhelmingly positive feedback from students, who appreciated the thoughtful design and the ability to customize the layout of their space with the standard furniture pieces provided.
Sustainability goals
Furman has been at the cutting edge of sustainability in higher education and is consistently recognized regionally and nationally for its sustainability work. Approaching furniture with a sustainable mindset was a priority when furnishing the new spaces. The university sought products that utilize eco-friendly materials and are built to last.
Foliot’s solution: Foliot provided North American-made products that meet stringent indoor air quality standards and come with a 25-year warranty, ensuring a sustainable and long-lasting investment.
Complex Projects Require a Proven Process
See how we workCollaboration
Transforming Furman University’s vision into reality required a seamless partnership and continuous collaboration between the university and its chosen vendor. From proactive communication to detailed logistical planning, every step of the process was crucial to the project’s success. That’s why Furman chose Foliot.
Responsive vendor partnership
Furman was looking for a vendor partner with a proven track record of adaptability and proactive problem-solving.
Foliot’s solution: Foliot maintained regular communication, anticipated challenges, and provided quick solutions to ensure the project stayed on track.
Pre-installation coordination
Efficient logistics, including delivery schedules and elevator usage, were critical to avoid bottlenecks during the installation phase.
Foliot’s solution: Pre-installation meetings ensured all elements of the installation were aligned across the various trades involved. Foliot implemented a clear, step-by-step plan to complete installation within the two-week window.
Proactive compliance management
New legislation on furniture stability emerged during the project, creating the
potential for disruption.
Foliot’s solution: Foliot provided products that exceeded compliance requirements, preventing delays or complications.
Evolution
Evolving to meet Furman University’s needs
As Furman’s renovation project progressed, Foliot remained focused on delivering lasting solutions aligned with the university’s values and students’ needs. This dual focus ensured that the project met its immediate goals and that Furman received a long-term return on its investment.
Enhanced student experience
The furniture Foliot delivered was designed to improve daily living for students, featuring adaptable storage solutions and durable finishes.
The result: Positive feedback from students underscored the usability and comfort of the furniture, elevating the overall campus experience
Future-ready solutions
In addition to meeting student expectations for design and functionality today, Furman University also wanted to ensure that its investment prioritized durability and longevity. The delivered furniture needed to withstand normal wear and tear while supporting the university’s long-term sustainability goals.
The result: Foliot’s furniture reduced the need for frequent replacements, helping Furman lower long-term costs while planning for future renovation projects.
Looking to the future
Furman University’s renovation project with Foliot Furniture set the foundation for ongoing innovation and the ability to meet evolving student expectations. By demonstrating a shared commitment to sustainability and excellence with Furman, Foliot was able to form a strong partnership that paved the way for future projects that enhance campus life.
Commitment to sustainability
Foliot’s eco-friendly practices and focus on product longevity align perfectly with Furman’s mission to maintain a sustainable campus
Continued collaboration
Impressed with the success of this project, Furman plans to partner with Foliot for upcoming housing renovations, confident in its ability to meet tight deadlines and exceed expectations.
