Building or transforming a dental practice? Whether it’s a brand-new squat, a refurbishment of an existing clinic, or an ambitious extension, it’s one of the most impactful investments you’ll make in your professional journey.
Choosing the right design professional can make or break your project. From compliance and layout efficiency to patient experience and brand identity, the roles of an architect, architectural designer, and interior designer each bring unique strengths, and limitations, to the table.
Whether you’re starting from scratch, breathing new life into an outdated space, or expanding to meet growing demand, understanding who does what (and when to bring them in) is key to staying on budget, on schedule, and on brand.
At Excel Building Contractors, we champion both new and existing dental practice projects, whether it’s a ground-up build, a strategic refurbishment, or a seamless extension. And we tailor every solution to meet our clients’ unique goals, vision, and budget.
Let’s break down the pros and cons of each role to help you make an informed decision.
The Architect
Role: Architects are licensed professionals who design, evaluate, and supervise the entire building process. They ensure that the structure is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, while also meeting regulatory standards.
Pros:
- Full oversight of design and construction
- Deep understanding of building regulations and compliance
- Can manage planning permissions and structural integrity
- Ideal for ground-up builds or major renovations
Cons:
- Typically the most expensive option
- May focus more on structure than interior experience
- Less specialised in dental-specific layouts unless niche-trained
Best for: Practices building from scratch or undergoing significant structural changes.
The Architectural Designer
Role: Architectural designers bridge the gap between creative design and actual construction. They often have extensive experience in both areas and may specialise in healthcare or dental environments.
Pros:
- Highly experienced in both design and construction
- Often more cost-effective than architects
- Can offer specialised knowledge in dental practice design
- Practical and compliance-focused
Cons:
- May not be licensed as architects
- Limited authority on legal approvals compared to architects
Best for: Practices needing a balance of creativity, compliance, and cost-efficiency.
The Interior Designer
Role: Interior designers focus on decorating and furnishing the internal and external spaces once the structure is built. They bring the space to life with colour, furniture, lighting, and branding.
Pros:
- Excellent for creating a patient-friendly, branded environment
- Can transform a basic space into a memorable experience
- Often more affordable than architects or architectural designers
Cons:
- Not involved in structural or compliance aspects
- Limited input on layout efficiency or technical requirements
- Best suited for post-construction phases
Best for: Practices with an existing space looking to enhance aesthetics and patient experience.
Final Thoughts: Making Your Budget Count
When it comes to building or transforming a dental practice, whether it’s a squat start-up, a refurbishment, or an extension, the winning formula lies in balancing compliance, practicality, and aesthetics.
Imagine you have a budget set aside purely for design input. Where would you invest it?
- Architect – for full-scale structural design, regulatory oversight, and long-term durability.
- Architectural Designer – for specialised, cost-effective planning that blends creativity with construction know-how.
- Interior Designer – for aesthetic transformation, patient experience, and brand impact.
Each professional brings distinct value. Your choice should reflect your project’s scope, your budget priorities, and the kind of experience you want to deliver; both for your team and your patients.
Whether you’re drawn to a full-service architectural solution or prefer a bold, design-led approach, Excel Building Contractors is your partner from first sketch to final surgery chair, delivering tailored expertise every step of the way.
For more information please call us on 020 8820 0853 or simply complete our contact form and we’ll be right back in contact with you