Design-build has emerged as one of the industry’s fastest-growing delivery methods, replacing the traditional phased approach with a more integrated, collaborative process that gives owners a single team responsible for both design and construction from start to finish. Compared to the traditional design-bid-build approach where a) owners first hire a designer, then b) seek bids from contractors after the plans are complete, and lastly, c) hire the lowest qualified bidder to build the project. Design-build instead integrates the architects, engineers, and builders throughout the entire process.
Beginning projects with this early collaboration is a belief that has shaped Kent Design Build’s work for decades. By utilizing the design-build delivery method and bringing teams together early on, Kent helps owners streamline decision-making, control costs, and reduce risk throughout the project’s lifecycle. Design-build also offers clients more integrated services that bring planning, design, and construction together under a single, coordinated approach.
While both delivery methods can successfully bring a project to completion, the primary difference lies in how the project team is structured. Design-build integrates design and construction under one team and one contract, promoting collaboration, efficiency, and accountability from the start. Design-bid-build separates each phase of the project, provides owners with less control over cost, and it often requires more coordination and longer processes.
When Design-Build Is the Right Fit
Design-build is a good fit for owners who value collaboration, predictability, and a quicker project delivery. When owners seek a more streamlined process, they will benefit from more efficient decision-making, clear communication, and one team responsible for the collaborative efforts and bringing the project to completion. Early collaboration between the builder and designer also provides real-time cost input that helps keep the owner’s budget on track and decrease the chances of costly changes later in the process.
This integrated design-build approach is especially valuable for projects that are highly complex and have demanding schedules. For Kent, the New Orleans Generation 5 Porsche dealership is exemplary of how the design-build delivery method can drive success when faced with a firm deadline and complex design. Kent had 18 months to design the dealership, permit the project, and build a brand-new facility. For Kent to meet the project’s deadline, early collaboration, streamlined communication, and an accelerated workflow was essential throughout each phase.
The challenge was more than just delivering the project quickly. It was about hiring the right design partners, selecting strong trade partners, and establishing an efficient work sequence with experienced staff that resulted in successful project completion. The design-build process was vital in overcoming every challenge the project faced.
Ultimately, the design-build delivery method is the right fit for owners who desire a trusted partner committed to helping them meet their goals and bring their vision to life under a strategic approach, more than simply delivering a finished project. Design-build sets owners up to move forward with confidence and clarity throughout every phase of the project.
Kent helps owners navigate critical building decisions with clarity and confidence. Contact us today to start the conversation for your next project.
