Design/Build

An approach to homebuilding where you enter into a single contract with a single entity, a design/build firm. Design/build firms typically offer architectural and building services under one roof, and may additionally offer engineering, skilled trade or other services. Having the major players under one roof allows the design-build firm to offer a unified vision from the very start. Changes are handled by the entire team, design is informed in realtime by your builder, and the whole team — rather than a disparate arrangement of architect, builder, etc. — is responsible for ensuring the design and execution fits your budget and timeline.

The advantage of this arrangement is you don't need to worry about blame-shifting between parties because they share responsibility for the project’s success. Plus, the response time between architect and builder is minimized, allowing your project to proceed as seamlessly as possible.

One major disadvantage — if you choose to see it as such — is that design/build firms may decline to develop conceptual designs until you’ve entered into contract with them. This prevents you from being able to competitively bid your project out to different builders, but the upside is the trust inherent in having a cohesive team. As long as you have a strong sense that the firm is well-suited to your needs, committing to them early on should feel right.

If you're still not sure, there are ways of arranging a design-bid-build relationship that can function similarly to design/build.