Dr. Liza C. Wu, a prominent plastic and reconstructive surgeon, recently transitioned her practice to Boca Raton, Florida, after 17 years in academic practice. At Privé Plastic Surgery, her newly established facility, Dr. Wu offers an array of state-of-the-art services, including injectables, lasers, and advanced surgical procedures. Specializing in both reconstructive and aesthetic surgeries, her unique expertise encompasses breast surgery, plastic surgery, and reconstructive microsurgery. Dr. Wu’s approach is deeply influenced by personal experience and a commitment to restoring confidence and individuality in her patients, a philosophy that extends into every aspect of her practice.
Dr. Wu’s vision for her cosmetic/reconstruction surgery practice was clear: a luxurious office space in a high-end building, designed to provide her patients with a comfortable, clean, and aesthetically pleasing environment. Danto Builders, with their expertise in construction, were chosen to turn this vision into reality, facing unique building requirements and specialized needs typical of a medical office.
Objective and Unique Aspects of the Project
The primary goal was to create a high-end medical office with the finest finishes and attention to detail. This project wasn’t just about aesthetics; it also involved stringent building requirements, including noise control, cleanliness, and specific material delivery protocols. Being a medical facility, there were additional electrical, plumbing, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) considerations to manage.
Overcoming Challenges: Adaptation and Innovation
One significant hurdle was the Boca Raton building department going through a transition phase, which delayed permit issuance. To mitigate this, Danto Builders obtained an early start permit, allowing construction to begin before receiving the master permit. This proactive approach was crucial, as Dr. Wu faced time constraints with an impending rent deadline.
Critical Design Considerations
The project highlighted the importance of field verification and the coordination between design documents and actual site conditions. Architects and engineers, while skilled, can overlook details, underscoring the need for the designers and architect to always check field conditions and design accordingly. Ideally, the General Contractor and designers should complete the site visit together and complete any necessary selective demolition to expose existing field conditions that may affect the design and floorplan layout, especially mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems.
Adhering to Safety Standards and Regulations
Safety was a top priority. Danto Builders implemented daily cleanups, safety meetings, proper signage, required lighting, and regular inspections, ensuring a safe construction environment throughout the project.
Project Planning and Execution Process
Danto Builders managed the entire design and build process, starting from a bare vanilla box. They recommended architects and interior designers, facilitated design revisions, and coordinated closely once the master permit was issued. A detailed schedule was created, with daily reports to the client and designers, and weekly team meetings to ensure smooth progress.
Subcontractor Selection and Coordination
Danto Builders’ approach to subcontractor selection is based on their experience, knowledge, attitude, and relationships. Many subcontractors have long-term working relationships with Danto Builders, aiding in effective teamwork. Subcontractors are involved early in the planning stage, with their input shaping the project schedule and ongoing updates keeping all parties aligned.
Innovative Technologies and Methods
The project incorporated energy-efficient technologies such as LED lighting, dimmable switches, and water-saving systems, reflecting Danto Builders’ commitment to sustainability and modern construction practices.
Managing Changes and Unexpected Issues
Flexibility and adaptability were key in managing project changes and unexpected issues. For instance, when MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) plans conflicted with existing infrastructure like fire sprinklers lines and electrical systems that provide utilities to other spaces in to building, Danto Builders worked resourcefully with subcontractors and the building management to resolve these issues with minimal time delays and additional costs.
Team Composition and Roles
Each project at Danto Builders is managed by a dedicated superintendent and project manager, with  senior management providing weekly updates and involvement as needed. Administrative staff handle crucial aspects like permitting, insurance, and financial management.
Danto Builders’ Mastery in Complex Construction
This project not only showcases Danto Builders’ capability to create a luxurious medical office space but also their proficiency in handling complex construction requirements, coordination challenges, and stringent safety and regulatory standards. Their adaptive approach and commitment to quality stand out, making them a reliable choice for specialized construction and design-build projects.
Danto Builders is a licensed and insured general contractor with over 40 years of experience completing hundreds of medical office, restaurant, hotel, commercial, healthcare, industrial, multifamily, retail and government projects in the South Florida market. Our team’s understanding of engineering and design, practical field experience, and strong subcontractor relationships allow us to complete the most challenging projects efficiently and effectively. We have won awards for our work from AIA Fort Lauderdale, South Florida Business Journal, Gold Coast Builders Association and Architectural Digest. We also were awarded the Broward County Business of the Year from the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce, and Women in Construction from Rebuilding Together Broward. For more information visit www.DantoBuilders.com or contact Danto Builders at info@dantobuilders.com or (954) 229-2006.