The Ten Commandments of Ordering Bespoke Fit-outs
Do you know the key factors to look out for to ensure you're getting the best value for your money? Do not buy or choose a bespoke joinery without knowing these!
The Ten Commandments of Ordering Bespoke Fit‑outs
Do you know the key factors to look out for to ensure you're getting the best value for your money? Do not buy or choose a bespoke joinery without knowing these!
1. Always ask about every detail!
As the saying goes, the devil is in the details - and this is no less true when it comes to premium quality fit-outs and furniture. Sadly, we often meet disgruntled customers from other providers who assumed that above a certain price bracket, disappointment was impossible, only to discover during the fit-out that a well-known, heavily marketed company doesn't necessarily guarantee they won't receive a lesser quality than expected. Make sure to ask the following questions to the bespoke joiner you plan to work with:
Is the furniture fully lined on the inside? In other words, does it come with a complete structure, including both a back and base?
Will you truly receive bespoke furniture, or will they simply adapt pre-fabricated elements to your space?
What type of hardware is used in this furniture? Specifically, what kind of hinges and drawer runners are implemented?
Can you request any colour, or are you limited to an existing colour palette?
Regarding the wooden elements, what material is used? Is it solid wood, wood veneer, or wood-effect melamine?
At Befilo, we specialize in creating genuinely bespoke, fully lined furniture in any color you can imagine. We commit to using only the highest quality hardware and fittings for our pieces.
2. Don't be fooled by huge discounts and avoid being pressured!
We've noticed that certain providers offer sizeable discounts during on-site visits - but only if the customer signs the contract right there and then. Regrettably, these hastily forced contracts often lead to ill-considered solutions or even subpar execution. Always allow yourself time to contemplate the plans and request additional quotes. This can save you a lot of trouble – and money.
3. Think 10-20 years ahead!
Truly high-quality furniture or fit-out isn't an expense, but an investment, which instantly boosts the value of your home. This is only true, however, if the work is genuinely of timeless design, of premium quality, and holds its value years later, when selling.
Choose to collaborate only with a company that provides at least a 10-year guarantee on their fit-outs - just as we do at BEFILO.
4. Don't go solo on the design
While we have no doubt about your creative flair and eye for interior design, trust us, a professional who has not only beautified but also improved the practicality of hundreds, perhaps thousands, of homes, can pinpoint small details, suggest materials, and propose solutions you might not have thought of. We highly endorse utilising design consultancy!
Here at BEFILO, we even offer to visit you for a free site assessment and brainstorm with you about the hidden opportunities within your home!
5. Choose a bespoke joinery with an in-house fit-out team
When a service provider outsources your furniture or fit-out installation to third-party installers, they're relinquishing control over one element of quality. Don't let your home be the training ground for an unfamiliar team!
At BEFILO, we've carefully nurtured our installation team over the years, taking immense pride in our staff and their exceptional craftsmanship.
6. Don't hesitate to ask!
Here at BEFILO, we believe that premium quality furniture and fit-outs should be treated not as products, but as services. We partner with our clients to help them rediscover the potential within their homes, to make them not only more beautiful and practical but also a better reflection of their personalities.
This is a beautiful and exciting journey that requires time, patience, and meticulous attention to detail. Should you have any queries or feel that something is not quite as you imagined, it's not only your right but also your responsibility to raise it. It should not only be the bespoke joinery's duty, but also their pleasure to help!
7. Always Check the Materials Used
Don't assume that all materials are created equal, even if they look similar. Ask about the materials that the service provider plans to use for your project. High-quality woods, metals, and fabrics not only look better but also last longer. So, make sure you're receiving what you're paying for.
We at BEFILO always bring samples during our design visits so that clients can not just see, but touch, and even smell the woods our bespoke joinery is working with.
8. Check Their Previous Work and References
Always ask to see a portfolio of previous work, and if possible, speak to past clients. Seeing a company's prior projects can give you a good idea of the quality of their work. It can also inspire ideas for your own project.
Additionally, speaking to past clients can give you insights into the company's reliability, communication, and overall customer service.
9. Understand the Whole Installation Process
Before signing on the dotted line, make sure you have a clear understanding of how the furniture will be delivered and installed.
Who will be responsible for the installation?
Does the service include clean-up after installation?
What are the bespoke joiner's expectations regarding the state of the room before work commences?
What areas will be utilized for unpacking and various other stages throughout the assembly process?
These details might seem minor, but they can significantly impact your experience.
10. Be Wary of Trends
While it might be tempting to adopt the latest design trend, remember that trends are ephemeral. Your bespoke furniture or fit-out is a long-term investment. Classic designs and high-quality materials withstand the test of time.
It's always better to opt for a design that you'll cherish for years to come, rather than one you might quickly outgrow. Our design advisors are always at hand to help you make these decisions.
Gabor Vegvari
Founder of Befilo
Remember, investing in bespoke furniture or a fit-out is not just about buying a product; it's about ensuring satisfaction at every step of the journey. It's about creating a space that's uniquely yours, and that requires a service provider who's not just willing, but eager to understand and realise your vision.
Here at BEFILO, we are committed to providing this level of service to each and every one of our clients. We look forward to partnering with you to bring your vision to life!