April 17, 2021

Design-Build Model vs General Contractor Model

Article written by Tess
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 […]

Design-Build Model vs General Contractor Model

Contractor holding Hardhat

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
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