Description: In the design-build approach, the owner contracts with one firm to provide both design and construction services.

The design-build approach replaces the traditional method of awarding separate contracts for design and for construction. On a design-build job for the contractor and the architect/engineer are allied and work together to serve the owner. The owner, contractor, and architect/engineer work as a TEAM to design and build a project that satisfies the needs of the owner.

The Team approach eliminates the tendency to blame the other guy if a discrepancy occurs. Team members focus on solving problems rather than placing blame.

Advantages of design-build:

1. You get early cost input from the contractor. A price is put on 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 can be saved because construction can begin before the design is completed. Example: architect could be completing interior designs while the site and foundation work is 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 the 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 the 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.

Some of our design-build projects include:

• First Bank
• Courier Place Phase 1 & 2, Courier Place Phase 3
• Katie Office Building
• Nashville Millwork
• Richland Place
• Square D
• Braxten HomeCare Services
• Barrett Insurance Agency
• Sloans Cycle
• The Clothes Line Laundromat
• Premier Vet Services
• Abiding Faith Lutheran Church
• Old Jefferson Church of Christ
• Radnor Church of Christ
• Trinity United Methodist Church
• Seven Oaks

From Rules You Should Know Before You Build Your Important Project, A Guide for the Buyer of Construction Services by Jack Miller