On-Demand Manufacturing

What does on-demand manufacturing mean at SENTIENT?

On-demand manufacturing at SENTIENT means we build to order, never from pre-made inventory. Every piece, whether it is one custom dining table or 200 identical hotel desks, is fabricated after the design is finalized and approved. There is no minimum quantity. Production begins when you confirm the design, and delivery is scheduled based on your project timeline. This approach ensures every piece meets the exact specifications of your project rather than being pulled from a warehouse shelf.

What is the minimum and maximum order size for contract manufacturing?

SENTIENT has no minimum order size. We build single bespoke pieces with the same attention as large commercial programs. Our maximum capacity supports programs covering 200 or more rooms or spaces. For very large orders, we develop phased production schedules to align delivery with your construction or installation timeline. Whether you need one conference table or a hundred guest room desks, the same quality standards and design process apply. Contact us to discuss your specific scope.

How does SENTIENT maintain quality consistency across large production runs?

SENTIENT maintains quality consistency by keeping all production in our Brooklyn workshop under one team. Woodworking, metal fabrication, finishing, and upholstery are all handled in-house, with no outsourcing to third-party vendors. Every piece in a large run is produced by the same craftspeople using the same materials, tools, and finishing processes. For multi-unit programs, we document every specification precisely and often produce a prototype piece for approval before full production begins. This closed-loop process prevents the dimensional drift and quality variation that comes from using multiple manufacturers.

Does SENTIENT offer prototyping before full production?

Yes. For large contract orders, SENTIENT typically produces one or more prototype pieces for client review and approval before full production begins. This allows you to see the actual finished piece, evaluate proportions, assess the finish tone, test the upholstery comfort, and request any final adjustments before we commit to the full run. Prototyping is particularly important for hospitality and commercial programs where dozens of identical pieces will be delivered. The cost of a prototype is factored into the overall project budget. Learn more about the ordering process.

What industries does SENTIENT serve with contract manufacturing?

SENTIENT serves hospitality (hotels, resorts, luxury apartments), food and beverage (restaurants, bars, cafes), commercial and corporate (offices, conference rooms, coworking spaces), retail (boutiques, showrooms, galleries), and high-end residential. Notable clients include Edition Hotels, British Airways, Four Seasons, Marriott, Hyatt, Cartier, Porsche, Pace Gallery, and Pearlfisher. Our work spans individual collector pieces to multi-property hotel furniture programs. Browse our project portfolio.

How does pricing work for volume contract orders?

SENTIENT provides project-specific pricing for contract manufacturing based on design complexity, wood species, finish requirements, upholstery specifications, quantities, and delivery logistics. Volume orders typically benefit from efficiencies in material procurement and production setup. We develop a detailed budget estimate after reviewing your specifications and scope. There are no hidden costs; we outline material, fabrication, finishing, packaging, and delivery separately so you understand exactly what drives the price. See our Pricing & Investment FAQ for more context.

Can SENTIENT replicate an existing design at scale?

Yes. SENTIENT can reproduce an existing design, whether it is a piece from our collection or a custom design we previously built for you, at whatever quantity is required. We maintain documentation of every project specification, allowing us to reproduce dimensions, species, finish, and construction details accurately. This is particularly valuable for hotels adding new properties, restaurants opening additional locations, or residential developers furnishing multiple units with the same design. Provide us with your previous order details and we will match it precisely.

How does SENTIENT coordinate delivery for large contract orders?

For large contract manufacturing projects, SENTIENT develops phased delivery schedules aligned with your construction or installation milestones. We deliver nationally and internationally, directly to the project site or to a warehouse for staged installation. Our white-glove delivery team handles placement and installation. For hotel and commercial projects, we coordinate access logistics with your construction management team, including elevator reservations, delivery windows, and floor-by-floor sequencing. See our Shipping & Delivery FAQ.

Does SENTIENT work with architects and designers on contract specifications?

Yes. SENTIENT regularly works with architects, interior designers, and procurement managers on contract furniture specifications. We can build from your architectural drawings and finish schedules, provide 3D renderings for design review, and adapt standard designs to meet specific program requirements. Our trade program offers dedicated project manager support, direct workshop access, and trade pricing for design professionals. Apply for the trade program or contact us to discuss your project.

What are the lead times for large contract manufacturing orders?

Lead times for contract manufacturing depend on the number of pieces, complexity of design, and any prototyping requirements. Standard custom pieces run 12 to 14 weeks from design approval. Large programs covering 50 or more pieces typically require four to six months. Full hotel fit-outs or multi-property programs may require six months or more of lead time. We recommend initiating contact as early as possible in your project timeline. We can accommodate rush schedules in some cases at additional cost, but planning ahead produces the best results.