The "design-build" approach...

is designed to allow a single firm to coordinate and manage both the design and construction services for the project.

The design-build approach replaces the traditional method of awarding separate contracts for design and for construction, allowing the contractor and the architect/engineer to be allied and work together to serve the client. The client, contractor, and architect/engineer work as a unified team to design and build a project that satisfies the desires and needs of the owner.

The team approach emphasizes good communication, good planning and eliminates the tendency to "blame the other guy" if a discrepancy occurs. Team members focus on solving problems rather than placing blame.

The 12 Advantages of design-build:
(From Rules You Should Know Before You Build Your Important Project, A Guide for the Buyer of Construction Services by Jack Miller)

  1. You receive early cost input from the contractor. A price is attached to conceptual design ideas as they are developed.
  2. A GUARANTEED MAXIMUM PRICE can be determined early, right after the scope of the project is established.
  3. Time is saved because construction can begin before the design is completed. Example: the architect could be completing interior designs while the site and foundation work are underway.
  4. The need for high cost change orders is eliminated.
  5. Architectural and engineering fees are kept to a minimum and determined from the beginning.
  6. Contractor fees are kept to a minimum and determined from the beginning.
  7. Legal fees are kept to a minimum by eliminating adversary roles.
  8. Construction costs are minimized by using the latest systems and methods that the contractor knows are cost-effective.
  9. Chances for misunderstandings are minimized with the team approach.
  10. You get the best ideas from your team members due to a cooperative team spirit.
  11. Realistic completion dates are established by the contractor who will do the work.
  12. You can take advantage of special services such as an initial service plan (a preliminary feasibility study), value engineering, and life cycle cost analysis.

Our design-build projects include: