What is Design/Build?
Condensed from Wikipedia, the definition of Design/Build is:
“… a construction project delivery system where, in contrast to traditional “design-bid-build”, the design and construction aspects are contracted for with a single entity known as the design-builder or design-build contractor. … This system is used to minimize the project risk for an owner and to reduce the delivery schedule by overlapping the design phase and construction phase of a project….”
“Design-build focuses on combining the design, permit, and construction schedules in order to streamline the traditional design-bid-build environment. This does not shorten the time it takes to complete the individual tasks of creating construction documents (working drawings and specifications), acquiring building and other permits, or actually constructing the building. Instead, a design-build firm will strive to bring together design and construction professionals in a collaborative environment to complete these tasks at the same time.”
Benefits of Design-Build
“It is important to note that the design-build method, while not focused on saving the owner construction costs, nonetheless often saves the owner money on the overall project. The combined effects of carrying a construction loan (which typically carries a higher interest rate than permanent financing) and an earlier useful on-line date usually yields considerable overall profitability to the project and may make seemingly unfeasible projects into genuine opportunities.
The compression is an important aspect of the implementation of this system. Other attributes include:
-
- increased accountability by the service provider,
- single source project delivery, and
- a value based project feedback system
Accountability
“Rather than a parcelized level of responsibility of the classic design-bid-build, design-build provides an integrated solution for the owner or client. This moves projects away from the “finger-pointing” that is often commonplace in contemporary construction projects, and allows the owner to look to one entity with any questions or concerns.”
Single Source
“Instead of having several contractors and consultants, an owner has just one entity to deal with. Design revisions, project feedback, budgeting, permitting, construction issues, change orders, and billing can all be routed through the design-build firm. This single point of contact allows a certain degree of flexibility for the owner. Most design-builders will leverage that flexibility for the owner’s benefit by continually refining the construction program to maximize the owner’s value at the completion of the project.”
Value-based project feedback
“Typically, in order for a contractor to bid on a project, very specific details relating to the methods and materials must be given to avoid any ambiguity and to make an “apples to apples” comparison of bids. In a design-build context, the owner, the owner’s other consultants, and the design-builder can work together to determine what methods and materials will maximize the owner’s value. In instances where marginally more expensive materials, designs, or construction methods might yield a higher return on investment for the owner than those of lower cost, the owner is free to adjust the project’s program without having to re-bid the entire project.”
view the full Wikipedia entry for Design/Build
How TMG Carpentry Implements Design/Build for Your Project
TMG Carpentry, Inc. will meet with you and go over your specific needs. We then put together a project estimate. At the next meeting, we review the estimate and make any changes or additions. A contract is then put together, including the start and completion dates, a payment schedule and a description of the work to be completed. This ensures everyone is on the same page.
Outside Services
We work with several Architects and Engineers and if one is needed for your project, we will recommend the one best suited for the task.
TMG Carpentry, Inc. also works with a number of kitchen designers to help you plan your new kitchen and cabinets. You will be surprised at how much easier having and outside expert help you design these spaces.