In a D&B approach, the focus is often on quickly moving to construction, limiting the depth and appetite for design development, iteration and exploration. This can result in missed opportunities for innovative and unique design solutions.

When opting for a D&B route, the design team is typically tied to the construction contractor, which can compromise their independence and objectivity. This may lead to designs that prioritise construction ease over client's best interests.

Going through a D&B route does not allow for competitive bidding among contractors based upon the same design, which reduces the opportunity for objective, comparative negotiation and cost savings. In short, D&B may limit competition, reducing the client's ability to secure the best construction value.

With D&B there is a lack of separation of responsibilities between the design and the construction phases, making it difficult to assign accountability for any issues that may arise making it the more challenging approach when it comes to determining responsibility when problems do (inevitably) occur.

Having the time to foster collaboration with the client to develop a layout that optimises customer flow within a retail store or shopping mall interior. This includes strategically positioning high-margin and hero items, creating clear pathways to develop intuitive ‘sign-less’ wayfinding, and considering fitting room, try-before-you-buy and checkout zones to enhance the shopping experience.

Interview staff to understand pain points and ways to improve the working environment and to emphasise workspace wellbeing, ergonomics and comfort in workplace design. Incorporate design workshops into the design program to debate the use and cost:benefit of adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs and breakout spaces. And work with a specialist lighting consultant to optimise natural lighting and enhance employee well-being and boost productivity. A comfortable and healthy work environment can lead to higher job satisfaction and improved business outcomes but this can only be achieved by working alongside the client and their staff to understand what needs to be improved and why, whilst presenting thought provoking ideas to them.

Being able to discuss with the client ways to encourage the use of design elements that convey the brand's identity and story throughout the space. This not only reinforces brand recognition but also creates an emotional connection with customers or employees, fostering loyalty, recognition and positive business outcomes.

Being independent of any one supply chain to be able to advocate for sustainable design elements such as energy-efficient lighting, centralised air purification HVAC systems, and the use of eco-friendly materials. We can also look at ways to lower operational costs through reduced energy consumption.