Design & Build Contractors in London
Design and build brings design and construction together under one coordinated team. For clients, it gives a clearer link between the design, the construction cost, procurement and the programme.
LCC uses design and build for commercial fit-outs, restaurants, refurbishments and selected development projects. Our in-house design team works with the structural, M&E and specialist consultants each project needs.
The benefit is not just having one contractor. Because construction is considered while the design develops, decisions about buildability, materials, services and lead times are made earlier, when they cost less to change.
Design Development
Design development turns your brief into a coordinated proposal that can be priced, approved and built. It can include layouts, architectural and interior design, space planning, material selection and coordination with structural and M&E consultants.
We bring cost and buildability into the design at this stage, so it isn't drawn in isolation from the budget or the building.
Technical Design
Technical design converts the approved concept into information a site team can build from: detailed drawings, specifications, structural information, M&E coordination, fire safety information and construction details.
Good coordination matters most where several systems share a tight space, such as ductwork, sprinklers, lighting and structure above a restaurant ceiling.
Construction
Once the design and approvals are far enough advanced, our site team manages the works with our specialist contractors. Works can include strip-out, structural alterations, partitions, ceilings, flooring, M&E installations, kitchens, joinery, decoration and final finishes.
We manage the programme, procurement, site safety and quality throughout.
Handover & Aftercare
Completion means more than finishing the building work. Handover includes snagging, testing and commissioning, certificates, the operation and maintenance (O&M) manual and a walk-through with your team.
After handover we can stay on to look after the property through our maintenance service and handle any later alterations.
Selected projects
Design & build in practice
A few examples of this work from our recent projects.
Kintan Japanese BBQ
High Holborn, London
Haidilao Hot Pot
Gran Vía, Madrid
Hachi BBQ
Soho, LondonFrequently asked questions
What is design and build?
Design and build is a procurement route where one contractor coordinates both the design and the construction under a single contract, instead of the client appointing separate design and construction teams.
What is the difference between design and build and traditional procurement?
In traditional procurement, the client appoints a design team, completes the design and then tenders it to contractors. In design and build, the contractor coordinates construction and, depending on the contract, some or all of the design. That gives the client one point of responsibility.
Is design and build cheaper?
Not automatically. It gives better control of cost because pricing, procurement and buildability are considered while the design is developed. The final cost still depends on the brief, specification and site.
Is design and build faster?
It can be, because design and construction can overlap and decisions are made more quickly. Planning, landlord approvals, procurement and long-lead items still set the overall programme.
Who is responsible for the design in design and build?
It depends on the contract. Under a full design and build contract, the contractor takes responsibility for the agreed design obligations. The contract should state clearly who is responsible for each part of the design.
Can I use my own architect or designer?
Yes. We can build from your architect's or designer's drawings, or take on their design and develop it further (sometimes called novation). The key is agreeing who is responsible for each design element.
Can LCC provide the design as well as the construction?
Yes. Our in-house design team covers architectural, interior and technical design, with structural and M&E engineers brought in as needed.
What types of project suit design and build?
Commercial fit-outs, restaurants, shops, offices, refurbishments and some development projects suit it well, especially where the client wants one point of contact and early cost certainty.
Does design and build reduce risk?
It reduces the risk of gaps between design and construction by bringing them closer together. It does not remove risks such as planning decisions, hidden existing conditions or client changes.
When should I appoint a design and build contractor?
As early as possible. Construction, cost and procurement advice is most valuable before the design is fixed.
Want one team to take your project from brief to handover?
Speak to our team about your brief, budget and programme.
Contact us020 8960 8899