Addressing budget constraints in construction requires strategic design modifications that optimize costs without compromising quality. My focus is always on value engineering, selecting cost-effective yet durable materials and streamlining designs to eliminate unnecessary complexities. Prefabrication and modular construction methods reduce labor and material costs to a great extent. Collaboration with architects and engineers ensures innovative, efficient solutions tailored to the project’s needs. Additionally, I leverage technology like BIM, that enables precise planning and waste reduction. By aligning design choices with budgetary goals, I always deliver excellence while maintaining financial discipline.

Budget cuts are common on most construction projects, at least at some stage of the project. On the design side, my field, we can “sharpen the pencil” by planning ahead all the works with the main contractor. This will allow to identify the critical path, the most expensive designs of the project and the areas where there are the most risks to the project. By identifying these in advance, solutions can be designed to optimize construction. These solutions may consist of rationalizing in-situ concrete mixes, logistics, geometries and the number of sub-phases of the project. In short, the costs of a construction project can be reduced by involving all parties involved: owner, design, construction and stakeholders at early stage.

Make the design modification, then argue about the costs and don't pay onece the work has been done. That is the reality.

Design has got enormous power and great levers to control the CoC and eventually the Bottom line of the Business Plan. Following are a few steps which I take : 1. Repurpose the budget : for example taking marketing expenses such as sample flat to COC if the same can help the bottom line / PAT. 2. Optimise the space planning: Re-evaluate the space requirement. Many spaces can be cut down. 3. Change the material: use of alternative material such as times instead of stone. 4. Changing the construction technology: for example interchaging cas in situ to precast etc.

The contract department should allocate at least 1-3% of the project value for safety during the tendering process, as per construction standards. Additionally: • Reuse materials whenever possible. For example, wood pallets can be turned into benches or rubbish bins for rest areas. • Safety practitioners should be creative and cost-conscious. Using A-frame scaffolds instead of GI pipes saves time, is easier to install, and remains compliant. • Apply 5S principles. Organize frequently used safety materials for better budgeting and efficiency. • Plan ahead. Ex: Dismantle and reuse scaffolds in other areas when they are no longer needed.