There are two common ways to deliver a project. In the traditional way you hire a designer, then put the drawings out to bid and hire a contractor. In a turnkey project one company designs and builds. Both work; the right choice depends on you.
Designer, then contractor
You hire a design studio for the drawings, collect bids from contractors and sign with one of them. The designer can supervise the work on your behalf.
- You compare several construction prices
- You choose your own contractor
- More coordination falls on you
- Design changes during construction can cause disputes between the parties
Turnkey design and build
One company is responsible for design, construction, procurement and handover. You have one contract, one schedule and one point of contact.
- One team responsible for the result
- Less coordination for you
- Design and construction decisions made together
- Less direct price comparison between contractors
Which suits you
If you have time, experience and a contractor you trust, the traditional route works well. If you want one responsible team and a ready space, turnkey is usually easier, especially for restaurants with a fixed opening date.
By Albert Galstyan, Creative Director, Futuris Architects · Updated 2026-11-06
