Why Our Design-Build Concept Makes Sense:
What Makes Us Different
Not all projects will qualify for this delivery method, but a successful project may be achieved with it.
What defines success? I think we can agree, if a project is completed on time, on budget and with quality success has been realized. But how is this best accomplished?
One way is to combine the separate components necessary to organize a building project: Design, Engineering and Construction. Doing this with a one-stop resource is called “Design-Build”. In other words, when the architect in charge of designing a project is also a licensed contractor in charge of the building process, it is both efficient and cost-effective and allows for a stream-lined communication and decision-making process. This helps assure adherence to the budget and to meet high quality standards, throughout the entire design and construction processes.
During 30 years in the trades, actively practicing as both licensed architect and general contractor, I have seen the evolution of these separate and distinct professions. They are both critical to a project-but little regard is sometimes given to how they are expected to integrate as one entity for the life of a project.
Today, we have learned from many successful projects, that if architecture and general contracting are unified into one qualified single source, a most important goals is achieved. That is, a happy client.
Here is a compilation of questions and answers that I have been part of with client’s over the years, which I hope will provide some insight to the “Design-Build” concept.
From Real Estate News & Views Publication:
Property Owner: “We want to design and build our own project, but don’t know where to start. I understand that there are many different companies and people that will be needed for this process. What is involved?”
Property Owner: I’ve heard that I can hire a designer or an Architect; what’s the difference?
Property Owner: I’m not in the building business and don’t feel comfortable coordinating and being responsible for important decisions that will need to be made, especially with this many different companies. I feel that it could get overwhelming with management responsibilities and end up being very costly to me. Is there an alternative to streamline the process, so that there is a single source responsible for everything and I can work with them on a clear one-on-one basis?
Property Owner: Isn’t hiring one firm instead of several different firms, sort of collusive?
Property Owner: What cost advantages are there for me, to hire a Design-Build firm, over hiring separate companies?
Property Owner: What other costs am I saving?
Property Owner: Will my project be built faster with this Design-Build process?
Property Owner: How will the quality of the construction be assured?
Property Owner: What qualifies a company to call themselves “Design-Build”?
Property Owner: What other services can a Design-Build firm provide for me, so I can simplify the process even further?
Not all projects will qualify for this type of delivery model. Specific questions or concerns about your project can easily be answered during our initial consultation. Click Here to Inquire about our Design-Build Services or give us a call 303-604-6208