Renovations and interior build-outs
Trusted, experienced, detail-driven.
Experts in Renovation
Avant Construction Group has a robust portfolio showcasing expertise in tenant build-outs, renovations, and various construction project types. Having performed renovation services since our inception, we specialize in tenant improvements, excelling in transforming commercial spaces to meet specific client requirements and industry standards. With a focus on delivering high-quality results, our team undergoes meticulous planning, efficient project management, and superior craftsmanship throughout the construction process. Our extensive experience in handling renovations equips us with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of these projects, including initial assessments, permit acquisition, demolition, structural modifications, electrical and plumbing updates, and installation of new fixtures and finishes. By leveraging our understanding of these components, our team provides seamless execution, timely completion, and client satisfaction.
Featured Renovation Projects
Every renovation is a chance to reimagine what’s possible. At Avant, we approach interior build-outs with precision and care—transforming existing spaces to meet today’s needs while elevating their purpose, functionality, and long-term value.
Tenant Build-Outs
A tenant build-out turns a leased space, often a bare shell or a previous tenant’s layout, into a space finished for one business. As a commercial general contractor in Jacksonville, Avant has completed build-outs for offices, restaurants, a med spa and a training center, including Corner Lot Executive Offices, ABN Office Renovation, Rebecca Davisson Interior Design Offices, Sbraga & Co, Hobnob, Candy Apple Café, Hello Smooth and the ASEC Offices and Training Center.
1. Assessment and Planning
Every build-out starts with the lease terms and an assessment of the existing space: what stays, what comes out, and whether the electrical, plumbing and HVAC can carry the new use. Budget and schedule are set here, during preconstruction.
2. Design and Permitting
The design goes to the local building department for permit review. A change of use, such as offices becoming a restaurant, usually brings more review than a like-for-like refresh, because fire, life-safety and accessibility requirements follow the occupancy.
3. Construction
Demolition, framing and structural modifications come first, then electrical and plumbing updates, ceilings and the installation of new fixtures and finishes. In an occupied building, the work is scheduled around neighbors and building rules.
4. Inspection and Turnover
Final inspections close out the permit, the punch list is completed, and the space is handed over for furniture, equipment and opening day.
Tenant Build-Out FAQ
What is a tenant build-out?
A tenant build-out, also called a tenant improvement, is the construction that turns a leased commercial space into a finished space for one business. It can range from new finishes in a former office to a full fit-out of a bare shell with walls, ceilings, lighting, plumbing and HVAC. Who pays for which part is usually set by the lease, so it helps to know that before pricing starts.
How long does a tenant build-out take?
It depends mainly on the size of the space, how much of the existing layout can stay, and how long permitting takes. A light refresh of an office can move quickly, while a restaurant or a full shell build-out involves more trades and more inspections. Avant sets the schedule during preconstruction, once the scope and permit path are known.
Does a tenant build-out need a permit?
Most do. Work that changes walls, electrical, plumbing or mechanical systems, or the use of the space, generally needs a building permit and inspections, while purely cosmetic work often does not. Permit acquisition is part of Avant’s renovation scope; on Crane Ramen in Five Points, Avant worked with the client and the local permitting agencies to complete a heavy interior build-out in a tight, high-traffic space.
How should I plan a tenant build-out?
Bring the contractor in before the design is final, ideally before the lease is signed. An early walkthrough shows what the existing space can support, which keeps the budget realistic and avoids redesign. From there, settle the scope, confirm the permit path and order long-lead items early; Avant’s preconstruction services, including budget development, scope development and bid leveling, are built for this stage.
Does Avant build out restaurants?
Yes. Avant has completed restaurant build-outs including Sbraga & Co, Hobnob, the Candy Apple Café and Crane Ramen. Restaurants add commercial kitchens, ventilation and more inspections than an office, so coordinating equipment and utilities early matters. Avant self-performed the design and construction of much of the Hobnob project, including its full-service restaurant and bars.