Embarking on a home renovation journey? Whether you're a seasoned renovator or diving into your first project, you know there's a plethora of routes to the finish line. The traditional design-bid-build method may be the norm, but why settle for ordinary when you could create a custom home that you truly love? Enter design-build—the dynamic, efficient, and precise alternative that can elevate your renovation experience. Below CG&S Design-Build unveils seven compelling reasons why this approach will transform your next home renovation into a seamless triumph.
Design-Build & Design-Bid-Build: What’s the Difference?
For many years, the traditional home remodeling method (design-bid-build) has been a standard course of action for home renovation projects. In this method, architects, designers, contractors, and anyone else involved in the renovation are each adhering to separate agreements with the homeowner. These groups each work independently of one another and report to the owner as their primary checkpoint. Because of this separation of organizations, there is more room for potential miscommunications and problems.
The design-build method takes a different approach to home renovation. At a design-build firm, all entities that would typically be independently contracted are operating as one team “under one roof”. Not only does this make for a more streamlined process, but it can also be more cost-effective and faster.
Making home renovations a breeze.
To better understand the difference between choosing an architect-builder over a traditional project method, we’ve shared a few key differential factors below.
Working with one team.
Because every member of the project is on one team and reports to one team, there is no need for homeowners to spend their time researching and managing different entities to tackle the different areas of a project. It completely eliminates the need to coordinate designers and builders from different firms and companies, leading to clearer lines of communication and less stress for you as the homeowner.
Cost prediction & control.
When clients work with a design-build firm, they are regularly updated with developments by their team, whether about pricing, construction, or design. Because the timeline and pricing information are updated concurrently with the design development process, this allows the homeowner to make more informed decisions, have more control over cost, and minimize the likelihood of unpleasant surprises popping up throughout the project development.
Seamless transition.
Not only does working with a design-build firm eliminate the stress around managing various contractors, but it also ensures a smoother transition from the design stage to the construction stage. Because you’re working with a single company instead of a separate architect and contractor, you avoid a lengthy handoff that can lead to missed information and potential errors.
Another common issue in the traditional method is that sometimes the cost of the project is not taken into consideration while the project is being designed leading to a mismatch between the new project and the client’s investment amount. Design and construction go hand-in-hand, and both elements should be regularly addressed. In design-bid-build, this reality is often overlooked.
Single point of accountability.
Another benefit of working with a design-build firm is that there is a single team to communicate with throughout the entire project. This makes it easier for the homeowner to get updates on the progress of the renovation and removes the stress of staying in contact with separate entities working on various parts of the project. If any problems arise, communication across the team is immediate, and issues can be resolved as quickly as they are recognized.
True client customization.
Because design-build allows for the homeowner to work so closely with the project team, there’s a lot more opportunity for customization when it comes to the design of their home. Clients work directly with a designer to create building plans that fulfill their needs and desires exactly as they envision them, with no room for misinterpretation. Customization is more strategic because the design, estimating, and construction departments are all under one roof. Communication regarding design changes can be relayed quickly between departments making sure no detail gets dropped.
Clients are central team members.
Design-build firms encourage homeowners to be active members of the team, empowering them to stay updated on design and construction decisions and keep the line of communication open between them and the team. Owners also enjoy having a more transparent view of costs and budgeting as the team moves forward, ensuring that they never feel blindsided or misled by monetary costs. Having a role throughout the project gives clients a sense of security and control and results in a final product that precisely aligns with their vision.
Long-term reliability & support.
When you work with a design-build company, you don’t just get quality work and a beautiful home; you also establish a meaningful relationship that can last for years to come. At CG&S Design-Build, our clients become clients for life. They know that we’re always here to lend a helping hand, whether it’s home care from our warranty department or building a whole new house. No matter what, our clients can rest assured knowing that they have a contractor for life.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a seamless and reliable home renovation experience, working with design-build firms like CG&S is your best option. When tackling the daunting task of remodeling your living space, simplicity is key. Opting for a cohesive team like CG&S, dedicated to collaborating seamlessly towards your goal, guarantees a smoother journey and ensures your vision materializes into the home you've always dreamed about.
