In our Design Dialogues series, Fiona and Kristan give you an inside look at being a Studio Munge FF&E Designer
KRISTAN: Technically FF&E stands for “Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment.” But as an FF&E designer, it means so much more. It includes, but isn’t limited to, any piece of furniture, soft seating or case goods, carpeting, decorative lighting, and art and accessories. It’s about layering. Having an ability to create a feeling through textures, fabrics, and lighting while understanding how they will impact a space and people’s interaction with them.
FIONA: I enjoy the element of interaction and creativity that’s involved. And being interested in putting a great concept together.
KRISTAN: To be a good FF&E designer you must really understand it – what are the best materials to use, what’s appropriate for the space in terms of functionality, how will the right volumes and scale affect the space. We see the experience of a space through objects and understand the end user’s interaction.
Most interior design graduates focus on architecture and interior design and rarely show furniture. Fiona’s portfolio, who joined Studio Munge right from school, showed furniture, fabrics, layering, and texture. It showed her vision as tactile with an interest in material and pallets.
It’s so great to find someone with an interior design background. FF&E design and interior design is all connected – rather than being separated they’re intertwined to complement one another.
FIONA: We’re involved right from the very beginning. From concept and narrative stages, our team collaborates daily with the interior designers to develop holistic environments. While the interiors are being designed, we’re creating furniture (shop drawings, specifications, custom drawings, prototype reviews, and installs) that will connect with the space on a deeper level.
KRISTAN: FF&E design is so unique at Studio Munge and this really comes from the studio’s diverse expertise. We collaborate with in-house industrial designers, purchasing and resource specialists on every project.
FIONA: Every day is different. We’re constantly working on new projects and developing new pieces. I like learning about emerging design trends from our suppliers and incorporating my designs with the latest innovative materials.
KRISTAN: I enjoy being able to work on multiple projects simultaneously. And seeing the whole process from drawing and customization to exploring palettes and finishes to that rewarding feeling you get once you see the outcome of your design.
Explore our CAREER page to see how you too can join our growing team!