“If I had six hours to chop down a tree, I’d spend the first four sharpening my axe.” – Abraham Lincoln
Recently, we visited a potential client’s home to discuss a rather extensive renovation. As we walked through their space, they shared a wide range of ideas—different layouts, finish options, and potential alternatives. It was an exciting conversation, full of possibilities.
Shortly after, we presented them with a simple preconstruction agreement—an essential first step in any successful project. Their response? “I won’t pay for a quote.”
This reaction highlights a fundamental misunderstanding of what preconstruction is and why it’s incredibly valuable.
Preconstruction Isn’t Just a Quote
Many people think of preconstruction as simply getting a price for their project. In reality, it’s the process of sharpening the axe—investing time and effort upfront to ensure that when the work begins, we’re not hacking away blindly, wasting time, money, and resources.
At Fixture Studio, preconstruction is where we:
✅ Define the scope of work with clarity
✅ Develop accurate pricing based on real-world conditions
✅ Explore design possibilities and alternatives
✅ Identify potential challenges before they become expensive surprises
✅ Establish a solid plan that leads to a smooth construction process
✅ Perform risk analysis and value engineering to ensure maximum efficiency
Skipping preconstruction is like showing up to chop down a tree with a dull axe. And a blindfold on. You might eventually get the job done, but it’s going to take longer, cost more, and be far more frustrating than necessary.
A Small Investment for a Successful Project
The first part of the preconstruction process at Fixture Studio is working closely and iteratively with the client to develop a mutually agreed-upon design. This is more than just picking finishes—it’s about defining the project’s scope, understanding key tradeoff decisions, and recognizing any limitations or constraints of the space. In some cases, this means identifying the need for expansion or structural modifications.
By making these determinations upfront, we are able to work out as much of the project’s details on paper before demolition even begins. This proactive approach significantly reduces the risk of discovering issues in the field or during construction—when we have the fewest options, the longest delays, and the highest costs.
Value Engineering: Maximizing the Budget
Another key part of preconstruction is value engineering. This term is often used but not always well understood. At Fixture Studio, value engineering isn’t just about cutting costs—it’s about maximizing the client’s budget according to their highest priorities.
This means identifying opportunities to achieve the client’s vision through more cost-effective materials, construction methods, or design modifications that retain functionality and aesthetic appeal. Instead of making arbitrary cuts, we work collaboratively to ensure every dollar is spent where it matters most to our client.
By incorporating value engineering early in the process, we can help clients make informed decisions that balance cost, quality, and design—ensuring they get the most out of their investment.
The Benefits of Preconstruction
- Transparency and Trust – A well-defined scope creates clear expectations and establishes trust.
- Cost Control – Preconstruction minimizes unexpected expenses and is significantly more efficient than dealing with change orders later.
- Quality Results – Thoughtful planning leads to better execution and a smoother construction process.
- Mitigate Risk – Address challenges before they become costly problems, reducing surprises and ensuring smoother execution.
- Increase Efficiency – Streamline the construction phase, reduce unnecessary delays, and optimize resources for maximum productivity.
Think of preconstruction as building the project on paper before building in reality. It’s about making the most informed choices before a single hammer swings.
Another way to think of preconstruction is as a consulting service, not just a step in the process. When clients hire us for preconstruction, they are paying for our expertise to:
- Conduct a feasibility study and align our design and construction team with their vision.
- Develop a strategic budget and timeline.
- Eliminate or minimize risk.
- Address pain points and tailor the plan to their specific needs.
- Ensure collaboration, transparency, and smooth execution.
What Clients Gain from Preconstruction
We’ve seen it time and time again—projects that skip preconstruction often face delays, budget overruns, and constant change orders. On the flip side, clients who invest in preconstruction experience fewer surprises, a more predictable budget, and a far less stressful renovation process.
At the end of our preconstruction process, clients walk away with more than just a conceptual design. They have:
- A fully developed set of construction plans (when needed), ready for permitting and subcontractor coordination.
- A comprehensive budget, including selections and/or allowances.
- A draft project timeline, ensuring expectations are aligned from the start.
- A strategic plan that provides clarity, control, and confidence before construction begins.
We don’t charge for a quote. We charge for a thoughtful, strategic plan that sets the entire project up for success.
So, the next time you’re considering a major home renovation, ask yourself—do you want to just start swinging? Or do you want to take the time to sharpen the axe first?
If you are thinking about a renovation, reach out to learn how we go about the preconstruction process and how we can set you and your project up for success.