Case Study: Furnishing New On-Campus Residence Halls for Lehigh University
Located in the heart of Lehigh Valley in eastern Pennsylvania, Lehigh University is a private academic institution that provides a scenic setting for students to learn, grow, and succeed.
Lehigh University found Smarter Furnishings in 2021 by way of a partnership with Corporate Environments, a MillerKnoll furniture dealer serving eastern Pennsylvania. With a growing undergraduate population, Lehigh needed furnishings and installation they could count on.
After discussing their expectations and goals at length, our team knew we had products and service needed to withstand the demands of furnishing three new on-campus residence halls.
The Scope: Quick Overview of the Project
Lehigh University needed three new on-campus facilities furnished efficiently. But since students don’t just sleep in live-learn spaces, this project also called for highly-functional furnishings in each suite.
To help create practical solutions for students, Smarter Furnishings delivered 410 raised Wood Adjustable Height Beds (which allows for storage underneath), two-drawer Cornerstone Chests, Apex Writing Desks, and multipurpose Franklin Mobile Pedestals that can be easily moved around rooms.
Partnering to Deliver the Best
Our team was proud to partner with Corporate Environments to get this project done the Smarter way for Lehigh University. Tom Oechsle, Vice President of Corporate Environments, aligned with us to offer their existing client an expanded product selection and proven, on-time installation services—two things Smarter Furnishings has become known for in our industry.
Despite the challenge of this project taking place during COVID-19 in an unseasonably wet fall, installation went smoothly! As a result, the Singleton, Hitch, and Maida residence halls at Lehigh University now feature furnishings that compliment their interiors AND meet student needs.
After the Project: On-Site Performance Evaluation
We’re pleased to say Lehigh University is thrilled with their furniture and we’re already working with this valued client on their next purchase order. But just because their furnishings were successfully delivered and installed doesn’t mean our partnership ends there…
About 18 months after the initial project installation was completed, Caleb Edwards (Installation Manager at Smarter Furnishings) scheduled an on-site visit to ensure the products are performing in accordance with the highest quality standards.
“A post-installation evaluation allows us to stay connected with customers. It’s an important part of making sure our products are always delivering on our 25-year guarantee.” – Caleb
Post-installation inspections are also a great way for our team to check in with customers on potential future needs. For anyone looking to schedule a quality inspection with us, expect it to take about 1-2 days, depending on the project size, in between semesters. Scheduling them during breaks allows our team to access the furnishings without interruptions to students.
Got a Project in Mind?
Let’s meet to discuss the details! We offer livestream demonstrations from our showroom or in-person presentations at your convenience. Give us a call at (205) 621-2502 or contact us online today.