What is Design Build Construction? | Meaning, Benefits, & Process
If you’re considering building a home for you and your family to enjoy, the term “design build” might be something you’ve stumbled upon. An alternative to the typical design-bid-build method, design build is growing to be a more popular option for homeowners. So, what is design build construction, and why do we love the design build process so dearly?
What is Design Build Construction?
Design build (or design-build) construction is a project delivery method in which a single entity is responsible for both the architecture/design and construction/build phases of a home build. This approach differs from the traditional design-bid-build method, where design and construction are contracted separately and managed independently. We feel that design build allows us to have a united vision with the client under a single contract with a lockstep workflow.
What are the Benefits of Design Build?
Single Point of Responsibility
Our team manages both design (architectural planning, drawings, renderings and blueprints) and construction (permitting, material and labor sourcing, build, inspection management), providing a single point of contact for the homeowner. This simplifies communication and coordination, and ensures that all members of the process are on the same page.
Integrated Team
Our team includes architects, engineers, builders and craftspeople who work together on the project from planning through fruition. Collaboration within one aligned team helps ensure design feasibility and cost effectiveness. On your project we will form a united partnership that includes architects, builders, the SSDB project management team, subcontractors, suppliers, craftspeople and – most importantly – you.
Cost Savings
Taking an integrated design build approach can reduce delays, minimize unexpected changes during construction, and leverage communication for potential reductions in cost. Our open-book policy solidifies expectations throughout the entire build process.
The Design Build Process
The SSDB Design Build process begins with a Q&A team meeting designed to talk through your ideas and the potential your lot has. We’ll share our portfolio and discuss budgets. Next, our architects get to work designing your home in a series of collaborative steps, ending up with a design that encompasses the vision for your new home. Then, we’ll expertly prepare your lot for construction and coordinate all the necessary trades to bring your new home to life. Next, we’ll help you visualize the look of each space by selecting interior materials and creating 3D renderings. This part of the process is often the one clients look forward to the most. As we move along the process, construction will be in full swing, bringing your plans to life. And of course, we’ll be right by your side, at the ready to answer any questions that pop up along the way.
Learn more about our process here.
Design Build Testimonials
Although we could sing the joys of the design build process all day long, we’d rather share what our clients have said about their experiences working with us:
“We like the idea of having the coordination collaboration of a team of people versus having an outside architect and builder. As the process unfolded, we really saw the benefit of that.”
- Glenview Homeowner
“I love the step-by-step process…We know our budget and we know exactly what everything costs and just being able to know that, I can sleep a lot better at night.”
- Northbrook Homeowner
“We would both definitely recommend the whole team…Everybody was in it together and they just made the process so smooth, easy and seamless – and the finished product is great.”
- Wilmette Homeowner
Read more about what our clients have to say about our design build experience.
Ready to Start Your Dream Home?
If you’re considering a new home build, the design build process is an unmatched experience for delivering clients timely, cost-effective, beautiful results that they are able to cherish for years to come. We’d love to talk through your ideas and bring you a full team of experts that are ready to make the perfect home for your needs and family come to life.