The office fit-out market often favours a design and build (D&B) approach due to tight project timelines. D&B contractors can offer upfront, speculative plans and visuals, making them an attractive option.
At MESH, we’ve frequently been brought into projects where a D&B contractor is already involved. This model is widely adopted and also very successful in a lot of instances. However, it’s essential to assess the key drivers for a client to understand if this is the best route: time, cost, quality, and risk ownership.
Best Practices & Recommendations
Clients should approach turnkey D&B cautiously without a professional team. Early validation of existing services is crucial but often lacks depth, and providing true value for money can also be a challenge. A LOI / pre-construction services agreement (PCSA) can help refine design, costs, and risks before full commitment, allowing for competitive tendering if needed.
MESH has successfully negotiated and structured contracts to ensure fair terms and project success. While D&B can work very well with the right setup, a traditional or hybrid approach can provide a better finished product compared to the spend. Some D&B firms excel, but others can create costly, delayed, and frustrating projects. Our role is to ensure clients receive fair pricing, clear contracts, and a smooth process from start to finish….and that can be any procurement route, including D&B!