What is Design-Build?
You may have heard the term Design-Build Contractor before, but what does that really mean? Essentially, this means that one entity and a single point of responsibility works with the owner for design and construction services of a project. The role of the designer and constructor are integrated and streamlined providing customers with a faster, more cost effective, and exceptional quality project. Derrick Building Solutions is a Design-Build Contractor.
When Can Design-Build Be Used?
Design-Build can be used for new facilities of any kind, expansions, remodeling, and restoration projects.
Who Designs My Project in Design-Build?
Often times the project is designed by a joint effort consisting of in-house staff at the General Contractor and contracted designers or architects. The difference in Design-Build is that the designers are working as part of the team which is led by the Design-Build Contractor.
What is the Advantage to the Customer of Design-Build?
The main advantage to an owner when working with a Design-Build Contractor is the single point of responsibility arrangement. There are no arguments about changes or delivery when one party has the responsibility on the project.
Another advantage to customers is that they receive designs that are buildable and meet the client’s particular budget and schedule. The strengths of a Design-Build Contractor’s practical experience provide real world insights into materials, budgets, and realistic timeframes that are particularly valuable to clients.
Client Profile: A Design-Build Pro—David Robson of Greystone Real Estate & BanTara Developments
Hudson Center Holdings, LLC, with the assistance of their real estate firm, Greystone Real Estate, has completed several multi-tenant commercial buildings with Derrick Building Solutions as the Design-Build General Contractor. These have largely been led by David Robson of Greystone and when we asked for feedback on his experiences, he shared this with us:
“We have developed a number of Design-Build projects recently, and we’ve chosen to work with Derrick on the last seven commercial development projects we have completed. As developers, our business success is positively affected by reliable budgets, timeframes, and quality we receive from Derrick Companies. By choosing the Design-Build General Contractor model with Derrick we have eliminated costly change orders from projects as well as shortened our project timeframes because we work with building professionals who know what is buildable, how long it will take to build, and how much it will cost. They truly work with us as a development partner in this process and are very focused on helping us reach our goals.
“People might wonder if an owner has more responsibility in a Design-Build project and the answer is a resounding ‘no.’ In fact, I think an owner has a better opportunity to focus on the project itself instead of refereeing disagreements between a designer and contractor. With a Design-Build General Contractor, all parties are on the same team and working for one master—the client. Design-Build is a model that works for you whether you are a first-time owner or if you are a seasoned professional with numerous commercial construction projects on your resume.
“Good quality contractors with integrity, such as Derrick Building Solutions, have the experience and insights that can help you get the best value, meet your goals, and even enjoy the experience.”