We’ve shared the top things that will likely bust your construction budget in the current commercial landscape. But what about your schedule? Making timely decisions, verifying existing equipment is operational prior to your lease agreement and submitting your permit as early as possible are just a few of the ways you can set your project schedule up for sucess despite today’s increased lead times.

Below is our full guide on how you can get and stay on schedule.

1) Make timely decisions.

To keep to a schedule, nothing helps more than making decisions on time, every time. Late decisions not only delay your project but can also result in penalties for missing your space’s move in or move out date. Knowing that real estate timeline takes up and influences the majority of a project’s lifecycle is crucial in allowing adequate time for the design, documentation and construction stages.

2) The early bird really does get the worm.

These are the elements of a project that should be done earlier rather than later:

• Order IT, audio/video equipment and furniture right away. As these items have lead times over a year or more, it is critical to order these components ASAP and to confirm infrastructure components.
• Get executive input and approval early. To avoid unnecessary delays, ensure the key decision makers are aligned on a project’s design, budget, and construction process so they are able to approve decisions quickly and if possible, ahead of schedule.
• Submit your permit as soon as you’re able. The City of Dallas continues to have unprecedented delays for building and life safety permits, so submitting your permit as soon as possible reduces your chances of going off schedule.
• Don’t wait to verify critical life safety material and equipment availability. These include, but are not limited to, fire alarms and strobe devices. Confirming these items are nonnegotiable.

3) Verify existing equipment is operational prior to lease agreement.

Below are important questions to consider in a few different categories:

• Plumbing – Are there existing drainage issues? Are there pipes that are corroded in the walls? Have other tenants had issues?
• HVAC – How old are your terminal units? How much control do you want? Should you reuse equipment at all?
• BMS Controls – Do they have them? Does the building require a digital controls upgrade? Do you have to buy extra equipment to make this work?
• Electrical Gear/Generator – Have these been inspected lately? When was the last finish out? What is similar occupant density to the new design?

4) Confirm existing conditions onsite through a site survey instead of relying on as-builts or existing documents. 

Run through this checklist when analyzing your project’s architectural design:

• Have your consultants been onsite to look above the ceiling and open the mechanical room?
• Are the deck heights and ceiling heights verified?
• Have the base building window coverings been examined?
• Are there irregularities in the current space that could affect design or layout?

5) Create a contingency plan.

Even in the simplest projects, unforeseeable issues can occur. Addressing these three areas can help mitigate any negative impacts:

• Ceiling conflicts – For new designs like unique ceiling features and specialty lighting, there will likely be issues with duct work that require some level of modification. The solution? Letting the team check these areas above the ceiling beforehand.
• Flooring conditions – Know the answers to the following questions:
  • Does the building have a history of floor-leveling issues?
  • Do the materials planned for install have a tight tolerance such as demountable or operable walls, large format tile and terrazzo?
  • If you have a slab on grade, have moisture tests been completed?
  • Is there a moisture vapor barrier or some other special slab condition that will affect your finish material install or its warranty?
• Existing HVAC repairs – Keep in mind that existing HVAC boxes almost always require minor repairs at the least. Generally speaking, the older a building is, the more costly the repairs tend to be.

6) Stay plugged in.

Stay actively involved each step of the way and see how your project tracks against the schedule in real-time. Attending weekly meetings and regularly visiting the site are great ways to stay plugged in.

7) Discuss expectations and timing with the design team.

Regular and open communication with the design team is imperative to make sure everyone is on the same page regarding submittal approval timing. Architects generally prefer to have at least two weeks to review but many times, submittals need to be reviewed faster.

8) Always have backups.

Preparing alternatives can help ensure you stay on schedule in case of supply chain shortages or increased prices. Below are two important areas we recommend you have backups ready:

• Materials and fixtures – Deciding which materials and fixtures are okay to substitute versus the ones you can’t live without helps the entire team know how to pivot if something isn’t available or lead times are extended.
• Value engineering alternates – Provide value engineering alternates you are comfortable with in the schematic design and design development phases to avoid scrambling for savings at the last minute. Providing these options allows the team to better understand the overall project budget and stay on track.

We’re halfway through 2024, and like the triple digit temps around here, the Fort Worth market just keeps heating up. Fort Worth is still experiencing rapid growth and remains highly sought after for corporate relocations and expansion efforts, and great companies just keep showing up. From its diverse community to its Western heritage, there is no shortage of reasons that Fort Worth is a great place to work and live. As business here booms and our portfolio in the area grows, here are some of the things we’ve noticed and some of our favorite projects in this iconic city.

Everything’s bigger in Texas, and Fort Worth is no exception. It’s the fifth-largest city in Texas and the 12^th largest city in the entire country, offering the amenities of a big city, but with small-town charm. Go anywhere in Fort Worth and you’ll understand why its nickname is “Cowtown,” with the Stockyards Historic District being a centerpiece of gathering and entertainment. Although the spotlight for business opportunity has been on this city for a while now, the hype around it and expansion efforts have not slowed down, not in the slightest. It’s the fastest-growing city in the nation by percentage, with its population growing by 81% since 2000 and an increase of 21,365 residents just in the last year.

So, what’s fueling this ongoing growth?

From the Stockyards to Sundance Square to the Fort Worth Zoo, the city offers great places to live, eat and have a good time, but one of the catalysts for recent growth and economic opportunity lies within office developments. As more people choose Fort Worth to live and work, the demand for more office space and Class A buildings is apparent and rapidly increasing. And it’s one we’re seeing developers move swiftly to meet. They’re investing billions of dollars to develop more space in popular districts and uncover hidden gems that’ll only encourage more to take advantage of this North Texas city.

And as Fort Worth is made more development-friendly, the timing couldn’t be better. Not only are more and more people moving to Texas, at the same time we’re also witnessing a trend to “return to office,” with a surge of companies seeking permanent office spaces to collaborate with their teams and use their space as a sales tool. This is in contrast to the 100% remote, work-from-home model that was in place during the pandemic and just after. As these new developments and buildings come to life, the city only becomes more attractive and offers new, untapped potential.

Given Fort Worth’s thriving economy, we couldn’t be more excited about our ongoing work here and serving clients from our new Fort Worth-based office. Located at Summit Office Park, we’re right on the perimeter of downtown Fort Worth with quick access to the bustling Medical, Cultural and West 7^th Districts. And not to mention, a front row seat to the ongoing expansion efforts.

After 35 years of working in this great city, there are a number of Fort Worth-based projects that we’re proud to have completed. One of the most unique spaces we’ve built took us to the legendary Horse and Mule Barns of Fort Worth’s Mule Alley. Dating back to 1909, what once served as horse and mule barns during the Stockyard’s heyday now exists as a sleek, 80,000 square-foot development in the Stockyards Historic District – and it’s Simpli.Fi’s current office space. High ceilings, modern open workspaces and preserving the historical integrity of the barns are just some of the features that earned the project a CoreNet Global Professional Excellence Award. We built this space well before the recent growth and attention the city has experienced, and it’s been exciting to see the area flourish and come to life even more than before.

Another Fort Worth highlight is our work for Mercedes Benz Financial Services. Pacific Builders was selected during design development to finish out their brand-new, build-to-suit regional office in Alliance. Our team had to complete this while the shell building was still being constructed, requiring intricate planning and coordination, particularly for the technology walls and smart conference rooms. The award-winning facility mixes classic design with state-of-the-art smart technology and features a full-sized commercial kitchen and cafe, restaurant-grade walk-in refrigeration and freezers, and a wood-burning pizza oven.

A final project we’re proud to have completed was for none other than Kiewit Corporation. Two project phases and 92,000 square feet later, their Westlake-based office is nothing but state of the art. Working hand in hand with Noddle Companies and HOK, diligent and proactive planning was required to bring this cutting-edge space to life. The stunning vaulted ceilings, full-service café and blend of steel and high-end millwork finishes throughout set this workplace apart from the rest.

Jackson Walker, Weaver, Pegasus Resources, Kiewit and Volvo are just some of the other companies we’ve had the pleasure to partner with recently.

From corporate interiors to restaurants and industrial work, we look forward to meeting ongoing demand for space in Fort Worth and witnessing the incredible growth this inviting area is bound to continue experiencing.

The last few years have taken us on a wild ride in the world of commercial interiors in DFW. From supply chain shortages to economic uncertainty to incredible growth, the landscape has evolved while the demand remains strong. As we move through 2024, it’s evident that new challenges are emerging, but so are the opportunities. Let’s delve into what lies ahead.

Fierce Competition and Unprecedented Growth

DFW drives great economic growth, attracting companies from across the nation and all over the world. This influx of businesses has not only fueled growth but has also intensified competition, a match we love to play even in our own industry as we demonstrate our deep roots, strong local partnerships and a reputation backed by a diverse portfolio that has only expanded along with the region.

Cautious Optimism Amidst Uncertainty

While there’s great interest and demand in the market, cautious optimism prevails for those businesses navigating through uncertainties. Many are adopting a ‘hurry up and wait’ approach, awaiting favorable conditions such as lower interest rates, a favorable political climate, direction on corporate return to work protocols or new vacancies to open up. For us that means a longer real estate cycle for some projects followed by an accelerated construction schedule.

New Challenges on the Horizon

One of the most pressing challenges facing our industry is the shortage of qualified tradesmen, particularly in millwork. This scarcity is felt across every project, creating hurdles in scheduling and execution. With our network of partners, we’re addressing this issue by integrating workforce development initiatives into our operations. Our future internal trainee program will help develop skilled professionals and meet demand while elevating construction as the rewarding profession it is.

Embracing New Opportunities

Despite the challenges, there’s a silver lining on the horizon. With more and more employees returning to the office and Fort Worth experiencing a surge in office spaces like The Crescent filling up before they’re even built, there’s ample room for growth and innovation. The resurgence of office culture presents an opportunity for the industry to reimagine workspaces that prioritize flexibility, collaboration, wellness and productivity.

Thinking Outside the Zip Code

From downtown to uptown, Irving to Frisco, all the way to Fort Worth, DFW boasts a variety of desirable districts for doing business. In the last few years, quite a few hot pockets have been added to the list and it’s been a pleasure to discover these areas firsthand and grow our business alongside these attractive corporate destinations.

Pacific Builders, the DFW interiors construction firm known for building high-end, dynamic spaces, recently opened a second office in Fort Worth at Summit Office Park with a designated team focused on this market.

For 35 years, Pacific Builders has elevated the experience for clients throughout the DFW metroplex and has built an extensive portfolio of work in Fort Worth over the years. Award-winning work in the Fort Worth Stockyards for Simpli.fi, impressive projects in the downtown and cultural district with Common Grounds, Jackson Walker, Weaver and Pegasus Resources, as well as work in surrounding markets for Mercedes Benz Financial Services, Kiewit and Volvo are just some of the brands Pacific Builders has ushered into the area over the last few years.

As the North Texas Region experiences unprecedented economic growth, Fort Worth has emerged as a top area for corporate relocations and expansion efforts. To serve their growing roster of clients eyeing this iconic city, Pacific Builders knew it was time to open a Fort Worth-based office.

“As Fort Worth booms, so does the demand for an interiors construction company that knows the city and its commercial real estate landscape,” said Steve French, chief executive officer of Pacific Builders. “We know this area well and opening an office here positions us to bring even more spaces that inspire to this exceptional city in the future.”

“Fort Worth is thriving with economic opportunity, and we couldn’t be more excited about our ongoing work here,” adds Joe Wood, president of Pacific Builders. “It has created tremendous opportunities for our team and our partners to not only keep up with the trends but to forge new paths. From corporate interiors to industrial work, we look forward to meeting demand for space in this inviting area.”

The new space perfectly positions them for the growth they’re experiencing in the area and as branding is finalized, will reflect their company mission and values throughout.

Pacific Builders’ collective goal is to elevate the experience for clients and the new office allows them to meet that goal while building on their 35-year legacy as a trusted partner.

In the dot com era, companies created spaces to recruit talent and give them no reason to go home. It was not unrealistic to have daycare, dentists and dinner all part of the office experience. Today, it’s more about flexible work arrangements and creating spaces that inspire employees to want to head to the office versus staying at home. It’s about designing a space that makes the team feel valued, even pampered, and bringing in some hotel and home elements to be less like the boring offices of the past. Today’s office could help you lock in your ideal recruit, differentiating you from the competition and getting them to yes much faster. Much like traditional medical benefits have evolved to meet people where they are in life, offices are evolving too – especially post pandemic – and the focus on people is a critical part of the package. Could your space give you an edge? Absolutely. Here are the latest trends to elevate the employee experience.

How have office spaces changed to accommodate hybrid schedules/remote workforces?

The biggest difference post pandemic is that offices have more of a hospitality feel. We’re incorporating more lounges and soft seating. There are living room type areas and the amenities to match. Break rooms have doubled in size to support catered meals and more room for gatherings. And, it’s not uncommon to see high-end espresso machines and other upscale offerings to engage and treat the team.

What are the top new features or trends that motivate people to come in?

We’ve gone from open to even more open spaces to encourage collaboration and maximize natural light. Today’s finishes are high end and the designs we bring to life are increasingly custom, innovative and in line with current trends. In fact, one of our favorite new features is helping pickle ball courts go corporate.

What are some examples of office features geared toward employee wellness/intentional design that you’ve seen? Has anything changed?

From flexible work schedules to investing in flexible workstations, companies are giving employees more control and more choice. Not only are there mother’s rooms, but there are also wellness rooms, meditation areas and nap pods. New buildings are featuring more outdoor areas and to give employees a more direct line of sight to the outside, more and more architects are moving offices off the exterior.

What has gone away with flexible work schedules?

Traditional breakrooms have had such a makeover they’re barely recognizable. They’re still called the breakroom, but they’ve doubled in size and the amenities are a draw to get people in the door. Much like the kitchen is the focal point of a home, today’s breakroom is a critical component to any new office space and feature all the upgrades of a well-dressed home or in some cases a favorite coffee shop.

What do you think is coming next?

The war on talent will continue to drive innovation in interiors construction because to entice and impress people, you must raise the bar whether you are hybrid or not. In response, we’re seeing so much movement in our industry and enthusiasm for creating spaces that have never been done before. The Texas economy is strong, and it has created tremendous opportunities for our team and our partners to not only keep up with the trends but to forge new paths.