5 Reasons to Prioritize Durability in the Design Process

1.  Increases longevity

Everything within a building — whether an office, kitchen or bathroom — is meant to be used by people. That means furniture, surfaces and flooring must be able to withstand repeated use with minimal wear and tear. 

BIFMA sets standards for durability to ensure manufacturers create durable long-lasting products. For example, these standards ensure casters on chairs continue rolling smoothly for years or that desk drawers keep their shape. Following best practices for product longevity reduces the need for repairs over time while maintaining the look and feel of a space. 

2.   Minimizes future costs

When people invest in their spaces, they want to feel confident that the materials and products they choose won’t fade or break easily.  
As you specify spaces, consider the lifespan of products, materials and finishes. Although choosing durable options may have higher upfront costs, you’ll spend less on repairs and replacement of parts in the future. Additionally, durability saves on the time and energy that goes into maintaining a space.  

3.   Promotes safety 
Safety is important to prioritize during the design process — especially when designing spaces that serve people such as those in health care or education environments. Long-lasting, durable products prevent furniture or surfaces from easily breaking, denting or cracking. Should any of these issues occur, it could cause serious safety issues, especially in high-traffic areas like seating. 

4.   Prioritizes sustainability  
When sustainability is a part of the design process, this results in fewer errors and less waste. Durable products promote sustainability by reducing the need to frequently replace items that would otherwise end up in landfills or the ocean. 
As people grow and change, it’s also important to consider the flexibility of a space. Select durable materials that are timeless and can easily be reconfigured so future generations can also enjoy high-quality spaces that have a minimal environmental impact.  

5.   Provides easy cleaning and maintenance  
It’s never been more important to design spaces that keep people healthy and support their overall wellbeing. 

 Opt for fabrics and finishes that are resistant to stains, easy to maintain and don’t require harsh cleaning products that can harm the environment. It’s also important to pay close attention to the care and cleaning requirements of materials. Manufacturers like Haworth and NARBUTAS create materials that are not only environmentally friendly and biodegradable but are also easy to clean and sanitize.