Design-Build Advantages
Design-Build is a construction approach merging everything from architecture/design to finished construction. It is common in commercial construction for new buildings, as well as in renovation projects. What makes it different from traditional construction is that it combines all of these services, as opposed to just offering the building component; one service provider offers the total package. The idea is that design-build is different than the design-bid-build approach, which involves separate teams, stages and contracts. With one team providing design-build, you don’t have to worry about architects not getting along with developers or vice versa. This is an important point which can be obviously played out in several aspects of a new building process:
Teamwork. With one consolidated primary team, there is little chance of conflict or pointing fingers between service providers - since all services are provided by one team.
Contracts. As mentioned, contracts can be consolidated with one overall team and project.
Change Orders. Change orders can be reduced for overall stress - because you don’t have to go back and forth between separate architects and contractors on any revisions or outside factors. With one team providing all services, it’s much easier to solve potential problems overall.
Cost. Because one service provider is doing all the work, cost can be reduced (especially with aforementioned change orders).
Meetings. Meetings can definitely be reduced, and easier, with the project owner in a design-build environment where there’s only one team involved. Meaning the project can more easily involve all parties and ensure the entire design-build process is carrying on as planned from the beginning.
Achievability. A major question for design-builders from early on is, “how buildable is this? Will there be construction problems?” And from that vantage point the designer in this scenario works through all issues with the entire design-build team on board.
Transparency. With only one team conducting everything in the design-build process, there can be a lot more transparency and communication and bonding between the team and the client on specific desires and potential issues.
Stages. Because the design-build team is working as one, process stages and back-and-forth can be reduced - which can mean a consolidated time frame as well.
Customization. Customization in a building project can also be quicker and easier (especially with changes) in a design-build process since clients can go directly to the source of one unified design-build team covering all stages.
Design-Build is an architecture and construction approach and philosophy which has a goal for a better outcome for construction clients. Reasons for this include easier communication and transparency, reduced cost and overall time for construction, reduced contracts and change orders, increased teamwork, and increased achievability for the total project from stage one.
Want more? Read about Buildrite Construction’s Design-Build services.
