Academies

 As I'm sure you are aware, there are 101 furniture manufacturers that can make tables and chairs. But when you need a supplier with the commitment and skills to really compliment your building design – without breaking the bank - there are few that can compete with Crossbrook.

Before you prepare your next furniture specification you might find it helpful to consider the following key issues:-

1.       Quality, manufacture and installation

Products should be made from sustainable resources where possible and combine a mix of traditional and high technology processes. For example, hand finishing shows in the attention to detail and the final quality of your furniture (which machines cannot replicate).

Fixing should be undertaken by the manufacture’s own staff to give continuity in the project. You should be informed of progress along the way, and any unforeseen problems resolved without taking up any of your time.

Once the project is completed you should be issued with a maintenance manual that shows you how to clean and maintain the furniture. The furniture must be tested to British standards and issued with contact numbers should there be any problems. Your supplier should be willing to come out and remedy any quality or manufacturing problems that may arise without any further charge.

2.       Reliability

Once manufacturing is underway the main contractor should receive confirmation of installation dates. Look out for companies that are very flexible and work around school situations. Any necessary risk assessments or asbestos reports must be read and signed by the installer.

Always ensure that site sizes are checked and colour choices confirmed with you.

Look out for manufacturers that have BESA and FIRA accreditations, which demonstrates a commitment to best practise and reliable operating systems. This will all help with the smooth installation of the furniture.

3.       Price

Take advantage of complimentary experienced design consultants who can visit any project to discuss your needs, and aid the design of the project. They should work on up to date Autocad releases and be happy to work on designs plans issued.

Look for confirmation that all designs and plans conform to all the current health and safety and British standards. Where possible look for manufacture to be maintained in house by the supplier so that they can maintain complete control of factory production costs and overheads.  

Introducing an experienced expert in schools furniture projects

Crossbrook furniture is a second-generation family owned business, which means that we take personal pride in our work; all our employees instinctively pay close attention to the fine details needed in manufacturing and delivering successful projects.
 
We have over 35 years of experience working with schools, advisers and local authorities, which means we can anticipate many of the typical problems or issues that will occur and make sure that these are avoided.  We listen very closely to your requirements and will advise to make sure that you have a classroom that is not over or under engineered.  This means that the prices we quote are realistic and highly competitive. 

Here are some examples of the customer feedback we regularly receive..

“Crossbrooks have provided the furniture for our new Science Labs and art rooms and both the design and quality of the goods supplied have enhanced the teaching environment immensely.
 
The personal touch and bespoke service sets Crossbrook apart from other suppliers and also the fact that most of your work is carried out in schools and you are aware of the constraints concerning the make up and running of the establishment”. 

Mrs Clack, Birchwood High School, Bishops Stortford

”Our office and corridor is vastly improved; it is now a pleasant organised place to work. The Mayor of Harrow came to open the Library which is now a fantastic space for children to enjoy books.
 
We chose Crossbrooks because they listened to our requirements, thought about our needs, had an imaginative, creative thoughtful design which went beyond what we had thought of and accommodated a curved wall.
 
We are now on first name terms with members of the team. Any alterations to designs or additions that are required after fitting are no problem.  Crossbrooks provide fitted units that are built to fit the space and make best use of what is available, rather than just providing units in set sizes. This is essential in an old building”. 
 

Mrs Frankau, Headteacher, Roxbourne First School, Harrow

Mr Collis, Bursar, St Francis College, Letchworth

”This was a major project for us, involving updating our 1960s Science Laboratories with all-new services and furniture.  Crossbrook demonstrated they understood our requirements better than anyone else, and provided the best advice. Their staff are extremely helpful, and I intend using their services and expertise again.”                                

Mr King, Estate Manager, Wycombe Abbey Girls School, High Wycombe

 
“We have used Crossbrook Furniture particular because of their flexible approach and practical design knowledge which means that we get exactly what we need to make the most of the available space. At the end of the day we always end up with very satisfied clients”.

Mr John, Project Manager, Mace

If you have a forthcoming project and would value practical advice or suggestions from our planning and design department or simply have a specification that requires pricing please either email sales@crossbrook.co.uk or call 01992 557000.