Becker & Frondorf | Independent Cost Estimating

Trusted Cost Experts
for Over 25 Years

Engage Early, Define the Unknown

Reliable estimates that anticipate scope early on can lead to significant savings in the long run.

Balancing Art & Science

Cost estimating has three essential parts: take-off, pricing, and project review. Our estimators know the science of creating a detailed take-off from design documents. However, the real art lies in seeing what is not in the drawings—understanding how market conditions and unique aspects of the project will impact costs. This is where experience matters, and it is why clients turn to B&F.

Engage Early & Often

We engage early in the design process to anticipate scope that is not yet drawn. Our on-going work with the design team allows us to create reasonable cost forecasts for aspects of the project that are still undefined. These critical estimates help to inform design decisions in early phases when changes are less costly to make and can have the biggest impact on savings.

Monitor Continuously

We provide comprehensive estimates at specific milestones, such as Schematic Design and Design Development. Additionally, by reviewing the proposed materials and design intent on a continuous basis, we can advise on cost implications and suggest alternatives when appropriate, rather than reacting to a finished design.

Up-to-Date Cost Information

We closely monitor current bid results and contractor pricing for projects managed by our Owner's Rep team. This allows us to provide valuable input to designers regarding cost variables such as escalation, union and non-union construction, LEED goals, MBE/WBE participation, and the influence of government regulations on construction costs.

Formatted for Decision-Making

Rather than defaulting to industry software, B&F has developed an estimate format that is intuitive for human decision-making. Early in the process, we organize costs by functional systems (i.e., building structure, exterior envelope, etc.) rather than by trade or material divisions. This helps designers and owners to better understand the relationship between design choices and cost.

Cost Estimating Projects by Industry

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Healthcare & Laboratory Projects

We have provided cost consulting for healthcare and laboratory facility projects throughout the Philadelphia region and across the country. Our Estimators understand the unique cost drivers of these specialized, high-tech spaces.

Higher Education Projects

Our Cost Estimators have assisted with hundreds of projects on college and university campuses, from new buildings to historic restoration and campus infrastructure. We understand the factors that impact the cost of higher education projects.

PreK-12 School Projects

From Master Planning and feasibility studies to new buildings and renovations, we provide accurate cost estimates to help schools budget for campus improvements with confidence.

Civic Projects

We have provided cost consulting for a wide range of civic projects across the country. Our estimates help community leaders to plan effectively, budget wisely, and build a better future for us all.

Museum & Cultural Projects

B&F has provided estimates for projects at more than 50 high profile museums and cultural institutions throughout the US. We work with complex teams of architects, engineers, and experience designers to carefully assess the unique costs associated with each project.

Housing & Dormitory Projects

We have developed cost estimates for dozens of residential and dormitory projects for private developers, government, and higher education clients. Our Estimators understand how design elements, funding sources, and local market factors influence the costs of these projects.

Cost Estimating: Additional Project Types

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ADA Improvements

Athletics & Recreation

Corporate & Office

Data Centers

Dormitories

Ecclesiastical & Religious

Historic Preservation

Hospitality

Libraries

Military

Penn State and PASSHE

Philadelphia Civic

Retail

Senior Housing

Visitor Centers

Client Testimonials

“We have collaborated with B&F on dozens of projects, from feasibility studies to complex, multi-million-dollar new buildings. B&F’s precise cost estimates and commitment to the project’s success helps us maintain strong relationships with our team.”

Christa Kraftician, AIA, LEED AP, Principal, Spillman Farmer Architects

Client Testimonials

“The value that Becker & Frondorf has added to our work for decades is substantial; we consistently rely on their expertise and informed appraisal of the possible costs involved with a project. They figure prominently in developing our strategy to staying within the budget.”

Emmanuel Kelly, Principal, Kelly/Maiello, Inc.

Client Testimonials

“We have been working with Becker & Frondorf for many years, both as Cost Estimators and as Project Managers. In both capacities, we have always found them to be knowledgeable and collaborative in pursuit of a shared vision for the project.”

Randy Reid, AIA, Principal, Bohlin Cywinski Jackson