As the name suggests, a design-build company takes care of the design and the construction phases of a remodeling project. With this approach, homeowners can get both design and construction services through the same company – and as part of one cohesive project. This process minimizes the chances of investing the time and money in designing a project you love only to find out it is too expensive to build.
Design-build is rapidly becoming an industry standard for delivery. In fact, according to Construction Dive, it’s anticipated that design-build firms will deliver almost half of all U.S. construction projects in 2021.
How Does Design-Build Differ from Traditional Models?
With the traditional construction model, owners are required to manage at least two separate contracts in which they are the intermediary. With the design-build model, the owner needs only to manage a single contract with the general contractor. Everyone on the design-build team is focused on the end product of the project and cohesion, rather than sparking turf wars.
Selecting a Design-Builder
Choose a design-build firm based on their credentials, experience, expertise, and how well they fit your needs. Our recommendation is to avoid using a cost or low-bid choice process. Why? Design-build firms deliver the best value by assessing budget solutions early in the design process and by creating continuous price estimates as the project’s design evolves. Restricting your prospective builders to hard-dollar bids before they have an opportunity to get into the project can result in inaccurate estimates and, worse, a project that doesn’t deliver what you need. Avoid the hassle by interviewing prospective design build firms and choosing one that offers accurate pricing, clear communication, and a proven process.
Dream
Even if you’re not yet actively planning a remodeling project, it’s never too early to start imagining, dreaming and researching. Knowing exactly what you want and need ahead of time ensures you’ll have a good understanding of the process and get the results you desire.
So what’s something you can do right away to have a better remodeling experience?
Think about how you want your space to feel, and about how you want to live in it.
How does your home make you feel now?
What are the things that make you feel frustrated, or seem “blah?”
How would you like your space to be different?
What details or features would make your day-to-day life easier?
Make a list that paints a mental picture of how you want your home to feel and how you’d like to better live in it after your remodel. Keep that list handy as you begin conversations with remodeling teams.
Let’s Talk
Your home is the heart of your family and of your life. No matter what your design needs are, it’s important to select an honest, experienced builder you can trust. We understand how important your home is to you. At Gordon Reese Design Build, we pride ourselves in ensuring that your renovation or remodel is as smooth and pleasant as possible. Give us a call or contact us on our website to book a consultation for your next project and to learn more about our process. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you create your home remodeling dream space come true!
By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build, Resident since 2008
