Design-Build Model vs General Contractor Model

I Break it Down: Design-build model vs General Contractor Model

We operate under the design-build model because this model is superior the general contractor model.  It is better for the homeowner and better for the contractor.

Here's the primary difference:

• In the design-build model, the design (architectural) and build (construction) are under one roof by the same company.  Every stakeholder is focused on ensuring your budget, timeliness, and aesthetic / architectural goals are met. Bringing everyone together creates project cohesiveness that cannot be met otherwise.
• In the general contractor model - the general contractor in not in charge of designing or creating plans - this creates a disconnect. The design (architectural) portion is done by a 2nd party.  That's 2 companies with competing interests.  When problems arise (which are unavoidable in the industry) these competing interests can cause chaos on your project.

General Contractors:

• hire subcontractors with expertise specific to the job that needs to be done.
• handle permitting
• bring in engineers and other experts as needed
• ensure construction is completed to code

General Contractors DO NOT:

• define the scope of work to be done
• make design decisions
• choose finishes
• deal with any small details involved in finishing the project

Design-Build Contractor:

• defines the scope of work to be done according to your budget
• works with the homeowner to facilitate aesthetic and architecturally appropriate structural design decisions
• provides architectural design and planning
• assists the homeowner in finish material selections
• provides the expertise and support to facilitate any value-engineering
• hires subcontractors with expertise specific to the jobs that need to be done.
• handle permitting
• bring in engineers and other experts as needed
• ensure construction is completed to code