A Flexible Furniture Solution for Rice University's Police & EMS Annex
A new facility, evolving needs, and a team ready to adapt
When Rice University needed to furnish its new Police and Emergency Medical Services Annex Building, the project required more than desks and chairs. With budget considerations, tight lead times, and the specific needs of public safety personnel, OFC was tasked with creating a functional, professional workspace that could adapt as the project evolved.
Smart furniture solutions that balance cost and quality
OFC combined remanufactured Knoll workstations and private office furniture with new ergonomic seating, storage, and lounge furnishings. Specialized needs were also addressed with the inclusion of OF Connect custom cabinetry pieces, designed and incorporated into private offices and cubicles to meet storage needs for police and EMT field gear within tight spaces. This approach helped Rice University maximize its furniture budget while creating a cohesive, modern appearance throughout the facility.
Updated work surfaces, refreshed panel fabrics, coordinated finishes, and integrated storage brought consistency across private offices, shared workspaces, and common areas.
Adapting when plans changed
As the project progressed, the original CAD drawings did not fully reflect all architectural features (e.g., column locations, interior windows, wall extrusions, etc.), requiring OFC to make on-site adjustments and modifications.
Rice University's needs also evolved from initial planning through project completion. Offices originally designed for single occupancy shifted to shared spaces, while desk orientations needed to change to accommodate the operational preferences of police personnel. Officers wanted to maintain visibility of office entrances rather than sit with their backs to the door.
Rather than ordering replacement furniture or delaying the project, OFC modified and reconfigured existing furniture components on-site. This flexibility helped control costs, minimize additional lead times, and accommodate changing requirements without compromising the functionality of the space.
One partner from planning through installation
With changing layouts, evolving requirements, and an active installation schedule, OFC remained hands-on throughout the project. Our team coordinated furniture configurations, made field modifications, and adapted to unexpected challenges while keeping the university's budget and operational needs in focus.
The result was a coordinated, functional workspace tailored to the daily needs of Rice University's Police and EMS teams. The project demonstrates how the right furniture partner can turn unexpected challenges into practical solutions without sacrificing quality, flexibility, or budget.
Location: Houston, TX Industry: Higher Education / Public Safety
Project Type: New Facility, Blend of New and Remanufactured Furniture
Selected Services:
- Space Planning
- Furniture Sourcing
- Project Management
- On-Site Furniture Modifications
- Delivery & Installation
By the Numbers:
- 26 Private Office Desks & Workstations
- 8 Cubicles & Panel Workstations
- 55 New Ergonomic Task Chairs
- 32 Guest, Break Room & Lounge Seating, Including Sofa
- 30 Storage & Wardrobe Cabinets
- 11 Conference, Break Room & Occasional Tables
Furniture Partners: Knoll, OCI Seating, Office Source, Via Seating
34 items
~19,000 lbs
~6,100kg CO2e
That's enough carbon savings to power 410 Texas homes for a full day - just by choosing reuse!
What Our Customers Say
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