Ask what the price actually includes
Compare proposals using a common scope and a clear list of assumptions. An occupied refurbishment, an empty shell and an office with reusable services can require very different work. No local price range is asserted in this note; a reliable estimate needs the actual brief and site information.
Break the brief into work packages
Separate building work, services, finishes, furniture, equipment and professional input. State what is already provided by the building and what must be added or replaced.
Compare like with like
A single per-square-foot figure can conceal major differences in scope and specifications. Ask for inclusions, exclusions, quantities, assumptions and the treatment of changes.
Choose where to prioritise
Identify what must work from day one and what can be phased. Discuss contingency and project dependencies before reducing every product specification to reach a target figure.
Combine daylight and task needs
Look at window positions, screens and the time of day each space is used. Plan blinds or shading alongside electric lighting so that brightness and glare can be managed together.
Take this into your brief.
- Bring the measured area and existing condition information.
- Separate must-haves from optional upgrades.
- Confirm a project-specific estimate before making commitments.
Write down one priority, one constraint and one question you still need to answer. Review them beside the plan or material sample before agreeing the next design decision.