TOPICS OF DISCUSSION

                (scroll over each topic and click) 

1. 1. What are the key differences between traditional design-bid-build and Design & Build?

   2. Design & Build has a reputation for being more functional and less ‘design’ oriented. Is this true today?

   3. What are the steps to follow for a successful project and a satisfied client?

   4. So is there still a case for the traditional method?

   5. How can D&B firms successfully manage cost cutting and value engineering?

   6. What is the good part about D&B?

   7. Where does environment sustainability fit in? Is it a priority in the fast paced world of D&B?

   8. Where is the future headed – towards traditional processes or the D&B method?

At Love That Design, the sustainability agenda is high up in our roster. So of course we had to pitch this question. We learn that it is evidently not at the top of the list with most firms, but they would like to give a preference to sustainably designed products, but these are not the general requirement. The focus is on a short timeline and products that are available at hand without lead time. “It is not easy to find locally based suppliers and manufacturers that are offering sustainable products.

Still, legislation can help to quite an extent, case in point the EXPO site. “When you are in a space where it is an absolute requirement, you have no choice but to follow the rules.”

“When you are in a space where it is an absolute requirement, you have no choice but to follow the rules.”

We wonder if most D&B firms would go out of their way to educate their clients on sustainability and gently promote this agenda.

“Not really,” was the common answer, sadly. “Having said that, you don’t need to educate the client,” mentions a design director. “There is a certain way of doing it in the feasibility study, where we can promote sustainable products and build, but again it is highly dependent on the budget as it does up the initial cost. Plus there is more work involved.”

An Abu Dhabi based firm representative feels that the onus falls on the client. “They have a bigger responsibility to make this change and they need to be ready to do it.” 

So what can our A&D do from their end? 

Again the answer lies in offering them the better, more health conscious, and long lasting options. “For example, we can use veneer instead of laminate. It’s a simple switch, and as a designer you have to consciously make that decision. I don’t have to always educate the client. Rather, I make this choice for them.”