The Build Process

The Discovery Meeting:

The initial step in constructing your Dream Office involves scheduling a discovery meeting. This meeting can occur as soon as the idea of building a new office crosses your mind. It is perfectly acceptable to have this introductory meeting, even if you are years away from the actual office design process. During this time, we will assess your practice and its future requirements, enabling you to commence planning and gain insight into what to anticipate. Furthermore, if you are currently prepared to embark on the search for your Dream Space, we can arrange this meeting promptly. Once we have evaluated your needs, I will provide you with specific guidelines regarding the type of space you should seek. Additionally, I can connect you with a commercial real estate agent who can assist you in your search. Throughout this meeting, we will commence the formation of your team. Real Estate Agent, Architect, Interior Designer, and Contractor. Many will already have some pieces to this puzzle and we can work to fine-tune the team moving forward.

Finding A Space:

After determining our desired criteria, I would highly encourage you to deal with a dental-specific leasing agent. Exploring prospective sites can be daunting when dealing with square footage, parking, zoning, and the demographics we are looking for. Once you have identified a space that appeals to you, I would gladly accompany you to assess it before proceeding with an offer. It may be beneficial to involve your contractor during this inspection to promptly address any potential issues. Furthermore, I am pleased to offer my assistance in creating a preliminary floor plan to ensure that the space can adequately meet all of your requirements prior to making an offer.

Negotiating The Space:

When selecting the space, it is important to consider that the process of negotiating the lease or purchase may require some time. Numerous details need to be exchanged between you and the representative of the building. During this negotiation period, we will efficiently utilize the time to focus on developing your floor plan. It is advantageous to complete as much design work as possible before you commence payment for your new space.

Designing your Dream Dental Office:

Our collaboration on your floor plan will persist until it meets your precise specifications. Upon achieving the desired outcome, we will transfer the plan to the contractor for their bidding process. In the event that you are collaborating with a dental contractor, we will seek their input in the design process. Given their extensive experience in constructing dental offices, they may offer valuable insights.

Selecting Your Equipment:

After the completion of your floor plan design, we will proceed with the selection of your equipment. We have already engaged in several discussions with you regarding your preferred equipment setup, and we will tailor the design of your operatories to meet your specific requirements. It is now imperative that we finalize the selection process, as different equipment types and brands have varying specifications. This will enable us to provide your contractor or architect with the necessary construction documents to commence the project.

Selecting the Team:

It is likely that you have already identified the individuals who will make up your Team. However, it is crucial to solidify agreements with each member if you have not done so already. With everyone's bids and proposals in hand, it is now time to finalize contracts and commence the actual work.

Submitting our Plans to the Architect:

Please note that your architect may need 10 weeks to incorporate our drawings, choose materials, design the interior, and finalize other specifications for your new space. Additionally, they might have to make slight modifications to ensure compliance with local regulations.

Waiting on Permits:

Up until now, there has been extensive communication between your Team and yourself. However, we are now subject to the local building department's timeline. Unfortunately, it is possible that your permits may take anywhere from one to five months to be approved. While we will still be able to make some progress on your project, we will primarily be in a state of waiting until the permits are granted

Hooray Permits in Hand:

The permits have been received and we are prepared to commence. It is now time for the layout meeting, where your contractor, subcontractors, myself, and ideally you will all be present. During this meeting, we will meticulously plan the placement of every piece of equipment for your new office. Your input on certain finer aspects will be valuable as we progress through the meeting, making it essential for you to attend. Once this meeting concludes, we will all be aligned and moving forward together, ensuring the smooth initiation of your project.

Construction and Walk Thru:

The construction of your Dream Office typically requires approximately 120 days from the commencement of the project. However, unforeseen complications during the construction process may extend this timeframe. Throughout the construction phase, you can expect to engage in frequent discussions with the superintendent overseeing your project. Additionally, I will personally visit the site regularly to ensure the precise placement of all elements. Prior to the backfilling of trenches and the closure of walls, I will conduct thorough inspections. My commitment lies in identifying and addressing any issues promptly, while they are still minor and easily rectifiable, thus avoiding significant expenses and time consumption. It is important to note that most challenges that arise will be resolved without your knowledge. Together with your dedicated Team, we will collaborate to tackle any problems that may arise, alleviating any stress that may come your way.

Equipment Installation:

The equipment installation will be scheduled a month prior to the completion of construction. It is crucial to schedule this in advance and it cannot be easily rescheduled. It is of utmost importance to adhere to the schedule once the installation is scheduled. In the event that construction exceeds the expected timeframe by a week, there is a high likelihood that the installation may need to be postponed for an additional 2 weeks to a month. We collaborate closely with your Team to ensure that no disruptions occur to the schedule at this stage.

Final Inspection:

Once the entire space reaches completion, a final inspection will be conducted. Upon successful completion, you will be granted permission to open your doors. Occasionally, there may arise a few minor matters that require attention, yet they are typically of a trivial nature and can be swiftly resolved.

Equipment Overview / Training:

Now that you possess your certificate of occupancy, we are prepared to provide you with comprehensive training on your newly acquired equipment prior to the commencement of operations. Our manufacturer's representatives will coordinate a suitable time to guide you and your team through the operation and maintenance procedures for all the state-of-the-art gear you have obtained.

Opening Day:

A technician will be dispatched to your office on the day of installation, at no additional cost, to ensure a seamless start to your operations. Our expert will make any necessary minor tweaks to your new equipment and provide assistance as needed.

Let's Go!

Congratulations!
Your hard work, dedication, and investment have finally paid off. Your patients are amazed and can clearly see how much you care about their well-being, as demonstrated by your incredible Dream Dental Office. Enjoy your fulfilling career of making a positive impact on people's lives and continue to thrive!