Faq

What is Jones Baker’s process in designing a restaurant

Each project is unique, and we start by being good listeners.  After we understand the specifics of your concept, market, goals, and dreams;  we get to work on the preliminary design.  We present the concept and then adjust as needed per your feedback.   Once the design concept is approved, we move into the design development phase in which we extend and translate the design to all aspects and areas of the project.   Then we move to the construction documentation (CD) phase.   The CD’s have all the details the city will need to issue the permit and for the General Contractor to price and build the project.   Finally, during construction we are on hand to approve samples, answer questions, and generally be available to keep the project moving forward.   See you at the opening party!

How long does the process take?

Depending on the scope of the project, the process could take between 2 months to a year or more to complete.   For a new restaurant interior in an existing building or lease space of up to about 6000 square feet we generally quote about 60 days for the design process and another 60 days for the CD’s.  The permit process depends on the municipality and could vary between a week and a few months.  This we would research at the beginning of the project to have a more specific understanding and answer.  The construction phase with a good GC is generally 90-120 days.   However, there are many factors that affect the timelines including the design approval process, complexity of the design and/or the building we are working in.   New construction is more involved and would be considerably longer.

Does Jones Baker do everything turn-key?

Yes, we are Interior Designers and Architects, and we have a team of experienced consultants that we can pull in as needed depending on the scope of the project.  Mechanical, Electrical, & Pluming (MEP) engineers, Structural engineers, Foods Service Consultants,  etc.

Does Jones Baker do construction?

No, A General Contractor (GC) will be hired by you to build the project, but we are involved during the build phase to answer questions and visit the site as the project progresses.  We can also help review GC’s bids during the selection process.

Does Jones Baker submit for the building permit, or do we need to hire a permit expedited?

We do typically submit for permits.  In certain cities with a more difficult and complex approval process hiring an expediter can make sense however in most instances we can save you money by doing this ourselves.

If I have my own designer or established concept, can you just do our plans?

Jones Baker excels in being a design focused firm and we excel at creating new concepts, however we have been the local “Architect of Record” for established brands coming into the Dallas market and have also done many new locations of existing concepts.  Each lease space is unique so skill is required to make that happen successfully.

What are your fees?

Our fees are scope based and are not a % of construction cost.   A renovation scope for a 2000 square foot coffee shop for instance would be much simpler and have a smaller fee than a 20,000 square foot ground-up entertainment complex.

Does Jones Baker select and purchase the furniture & fixtures (FF&E)?

As part of the design project we do select all the finishes, furniture, fabrics, lighting fixtures, etc.   We can help purchase the FF&E which generally is the furniture, fabrics, and decorative lighting.  The GC typically purchases all of the finishes and materials used in the construction of the space like flooring, wallcovering, tile, etc.

Can Jones Baker work all over the country and/or overseas?

Yes, we have done projects coast to coast in the U.S. and Canada as well as projects in the Caribbean, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.