Before ground is broken, before bids are finalized, design-build constructors work to establish a flow chart from concept to operations. The term design-build is the process for how constructors ensure relevant tasks are organized, timelines are communicated effectively, and everyone is kept aware of the details required to complete projects as expected. The entire process almost guarantees the build happens without flaw. Design-build is the overarching methodology that unifies the project.  

What Design-Build Means in Construction  

When a construction project commences, multiple facets must cohesively bind to ensure successful completion. In order to run operations smoothly, the concept of design-build has become the go-to method for builders. Design-build provides that one entity, or the design-build team, works under one contract with the project owner to deliver both design and construction services. One contract, one entity, one workflow from the initial idea through completion.  

Benefits of Design-Build Construction Services  

The traditional approach to delivering construction projects involves design-bid-build, split design, and construction into separate entities with separate contracts. There was a lot of room for miscommunication and errors when using this traditional method. However, the new design-build process virtually eradicates these possibilities because one entity handles all aspects of the project from start to finish. Miscommunication cannot occur between designers and builders when they are a part of the same team.  

Design-build is the fastest growing method for delivering construction projects in the United States and is now used for nearly half of all construction projects. Research suggests that the use of design-build construction will continue to grow substantially over the next few years. This is because the design-build process offers many benefits that make it more effective and efficient than other methods.  

Speed: Design-build construction projects are completed 12% faster than the traditional design-bid-build method. This speed is because the work collaborates across all stages of the project, and since the design-build entity oversees the entire process, information is easily and quickly communicated. The workflow is pre-planned by experts who know how long each part of the project will take, and this increased efficiency leads to a decrease in the total time the project seeks to complete.  

 Cost: The cost of completing design-build projects is 6% lower than that of the traditional design-bid-build method. In the conventional method, the architects design the project without giving much thought to how much their design will cost to build. Because design-build companies manage both the design and construction aspects of the project, the cost of construction is heavily considered while designing the project. The design-builder will inform the project owner of how much additional features will cost so that they can make educated decisions on which features they want. Furthermore, the reduction in the duration of the construction project means spending less on labor and other time-dependent costs. Companies that offer design-build construction services also have relationships with every type of subcontractor necessary for the project, which means they get the best values for the project owner.  

 Quality: The design-build entity works with the project owner to make sure all performance needs are met. The design aspect of the project is conducted with the mindset of how to design the plan in a way that will provide the best performance for the owner once constructed, not merely what is necessary from a design standpoint. This aspect ensures that the completed construction project will provide the project owner with precisely what they need in a way that works best for them.

Because the design-build company manages both design and construction, it will often come up with innovations to provide the owner with the best possible outcome by having the designers and builders work together. If for some reason something needs to be changed after transitioning from design to construction, then the design aspect of the team can come back to help the team make the necessary changes in a way that works well with the rest of the design.  

Reduced Risk: The design-build company is responsible for obtaining the necessary permits and meeting all regulations. The project owner does not need to worry about whether the project meets all legal requirements because the design-build company knows what is necessary for the project. The design-builder is also liable for any possible damage or injury that might occur during the project, so there is no risk of a lawsuit for the project owner.  

 Singular Responsibility: With design-build construction, there is only one entity that is responsible for the entire project. The design-build company handles scheduling, procurement, budget, oversight, and oversees hiring all subcontractors. Because the design-builder manages all aspects of the construction project from start to finish, the project owner only needs to keep track of one point of contact during the project. One point of contact makes the construction process much easier and less stressful for the owner.   

Design-Build Company in East Tennessee  

Nella Constructors provides innovative design-build services customized to meet your needs. We offer a seamless experience—from sourcing and developing the land, designing and building your structure, through move-in, and post-occupancy maintenance—no matter the size or complexity of the project. Reach out to us today to inquire about our services at 865-471-1015 or bids@nellaconstructors.com.