Design/Build

Design-Build is a method of project delivery in which one entity assumes total responsibility for both the design and construction of the project. This approach offers many advantages over the Traditional (Design - Bid - Build) approach of using separate companies for the design and construction.

Design-Build enables the entire process to run smoother since it is based on a team concept, as opposed to one where the relationship between designer and builder can become adversarial due to differing priorities. Perhaps the greatest advantage to the owner is that Design-Build can save significant amounts of time and money; the project can be designed and built quicker and in a more cost effective manner. Another popular feature with owners is the fact that they can have more input into the design and construction phases of the project.

Our design build approach has enabled us to provide superior value to our clients. Design Build will allow you to obtain first quality facilities that can be constructed quicker and more economically. Studies have shown that the design build approach saves owners approximately 6% of construction costs over traditional approaches and is 33% faster while maintaining quality levels equal to or superior than traditional approaches.

Over the past few years, the Design Build approach has grown dramatically in popularity and today approximately 50% of the construction projects utilize this project delivery system.

Note the article by Penn State scholars Victor Sanvido and Mark Konchar: "Evidence suggests design-build wins in head-to-head competition with other project delivery methods."