Design-Build is a streamlined method to provide two vital aspects of creating beautifully functional homes and bringing a client’s ideas to life through construction. Often the beauty and the function are separated in the construction process, through the hiring of independent design firm and builders. This has long been the status-quo in the world of construction, but things are changing. Design-build firms are growing in popularity due to the many benefits they bring to their clients.
What does Design-Build mean?
Traditionally, at the beginning of any construction project, the client would seek out two entities, an architect (designer) and a contractor (builder). Since these are separate entities, the client would then sign two separate contracts, each detailing their portion of the work. The architect (designer) would create blueprints and work with the client to plan out -the budget of the project, then the design would be handed over to the contractor who would handle the construction phase. Complications can arise when working with separate companies on the same project and create inevitable delays and cost increases. These complications can be avoided when going with a design-build firm.
With the design-build construction model, architectural services and physical construction are provided under one roof and a client signs a single contract, covering both sides of their build. All communications, collaborations and decisions are made in one place, through one company. This simplifies the process for the clients and eliminates delays caused by poor communication and confusion stemming from separate contracts. The aim of the design-build firm is to streamline the process for the client and provide excellent service from day one through completion of a project.
Benefits of Design-Build
Accountability
Separate entities will point fingers at one another, passing the buck for delays or communication issues, but when all parties are housed in one company, there’s no shifting of blame. Everyone is working toward the same goal and on the same team, so that if problems arise the focus is on solutions and not blame.
Collaboration
With the design and construction being all under one roof, both sides of the project are able to have input throughout the process. Communication is simplified during each part of the construction and makes for a much smoother process. This benefit gives the client more of a voice and more opportunities to collaborate along the way.
Budget Friendly
Saving money is always a priority for clients and having surprise costs show up during construction is very frustrating. With both design and construction under one roof, there are far fewer unexpected expenses. Since they work directly alongside the construction crew, the design crew is able to draw the blueprints with current construction costs and build in real figures as they lay out the plan. This allows clients to have a confident understanding of the true final cost of their construction project and saving them the surprise upcharges due to under budgeted designs.
Choosing a company that provides both the architectural and construction services gives clients confidence in knowing that their project is being managed by one cohesive team. Streamlined communication, wider understanding of all aspects of the project and good collaboration give the design-build model an obvious upper hand in the construction world. With everyone pulling for the same team, each piece of the construction puzzle fits together smoothly and efficiently, giving the client a better construction experience.
Our Passion Dream-Design-Build
At H&H, we love to take someone’s home dreams and bring them to life. We focus on providing excellent customer service and work hand in hand with our clients to see that their desires are met throughout the design-build process.
As a design-build firm, we take pride in each part of a project from beginning to end. Let us walk you through the process of bringing your designs from idea, to blueprint and then to life!