The Offer That Sounds Too Good to Be True
If you’re exploring a new dental or healthcare practice project, you’ve probably come across contractors who offer “free design”. On the surface, it looks like great value.
But here’s the truth: design is never free. In fact, the way you approach the design phase can be the difference between a smooth, compliant, successful project — or one plagued with hidden costs, delays, and compromises.
Why We Charge for Design — And Why That Benefits You
At Excel Building Contractors, we believe in transparency. We charge for design because we know it adds real value, protects your investment, and sets your project up for success.
Here’s why:
- ✅ No hidden costs – You know exactly what you’re paying for, without inflated build prices.
- ✅ Independent advice – We don’t sell dental equipment, so our designs aren’t shaped by sales targets.
- ✅ Compliance built-in – Our designs are aligned with Building Regulations, HTM/HBN guidance, and CQC requirements.
- ✅ Ownership & flexibility – You own your design, giving you freedom to compare build quotes.
The Myth of “Free” Design
Let’s be clear; every design takes professional time, expertise, and experience. Contractors offering “free” design are still paying their teams — they just recover the cost later by:
- Increasing construction costs.
- Limiting your choices on equipment and finishes.
- Producing generic layouts with minimal detail.
The “free” design is not a gift — it’s a sales tool to lock you into one supplier.
Equipment-Driven Designs vs. Independent Design
This is especially relevant in the dental sector. Many contractors who offer free design may also sell dental chairs, cabinetry, and imaging equipment.
That means:
- The design is built around what they want to sell.
- You’re funnelled into specific brands and packages.
- The layout may not suit your clinical workflow or long-term plans.
By contrast, we are independent healthcare specialists. Our role is to design a practice that works for you — not for a product catalogue.
Professional Design = Intellectual Property
Think of design the same way you think of professional advice from a solicitor, accountant, or dentist. It’s intellectual property.
- A paid design is yours — you can use it to seek competitive build quotes.
- A “free” design usually remains the contractor’s property, meaning you can’t take it elsewhere without being tied in.
When you invest in design, you invest in flexibility, control, and ownership.
The Real Value of Paid Design
Here’s what you gain by paying for design upfront:
- Clarity – A clear scope and roadmap from the start.
- Risk reduction – Fewer surprises, fewer site changes, less wasted money.
- Tailored solutions – A layout that reflects your unique needs and ambitions.
- Compliance confidence – Assurance that your project meets regulatory standards.
Real-World Risks of “Free” Design
We’ve seen first-hand the problems that arise from free design offers:
- Non-compliance: Practices failing HTM or CQC inspections because key design details were overlooked.
- Workflow inefficiencies: Surgeries designed to fit equipment, not staff or patients.
- Budget blowouts: Hidden costs appearing mid-build, when it’s too late to change supplier.
The cost of correcting these mistakes often far exceeds the fee for a professional design phase.
Why Clients Value Our Approach
Our clients tell us that what mattered most wasn’t saving a few thousand pounds at the start — it was:
- Smooth delivery of their project.
- Confidence that their practice would pass inspections.
- A layout that makes day-to-day work easier and more efficient.
- Peace of mind knowing there were no hidden agendas.
This is the long-term value of a paid design.
Our Promise to You
When you work with us, you can expect:
- Transparency – No hidden costs, no inflated quotes.
- Independence – We work for you, not for equipment manufacturers.
- Compliance-first design – Every layout is checked against the latest regulations.
- Future-proof thinking – Designs that adapt as your practice grows.
Invest in Design, Protect Your Project
The design phase is the foundation of your project. If it’s rushed, biased, or incomplete, the entire build is at risk.
“Free design” is rarely free. It often comes with hidden costs, limited choice, and long-term compromises.
By investing in professional design, you’re not just paying for drawings — you’re securing clarity, flexibility, compliance, and peace of mind.
And that’s something no “free” offer can truly give you.
We’d love to speak to you about your design ideas, whether you’re considering a refurbishment, a practice extension or starting from a blank canvas. Contact us to discuss in more detail.