What is Design-Build Construction?

What Is Design-Build?

Simply put, the design-build delivery method is a way to simplify construction. It replaces the old, traditional method where you had to sign separate contracts for a designer and a builder. In design-build, the contractor, the architects, the subcontractors, and the owner all work together as one unified team.

The goal is to build a project that meets your expectations perfectly. Instead of different companies pointing fingers and placing blame when things go wrong, the team focuses on communication, collaboration, and solving problems together.

Traditional vs. Design-Build: A Comparison
To understand the difference, it helps to look at the contracts:

• The Traditional Method (Design-Bid-Build): The owner has to manage two or more separate contracts. You become the "middleman" between the architect and the builder. If there is a dispute, you have to settle it. This often creates an "us versus them" relationship that can slow the project down.

• The Design-Build Method: The owner manages only one contract with the Design-Builder (HKC Construction). We form a team with the designers and manage all the subcontractors for you. We work with you to set the goals, the budget, and the schedule. Everyone is focused on the same end product, eliminating "turf wars."

The 5 Phases of the Design-Build Process

There are essentially five phases in this process. While it might sound like a lot of steps, the beauty of design-build is that these phases often overlap, making the project move faster. In traditional construction, you have to finish one step completely before starting the next. In design-build, the process is fluid and flexible.

Here is how the team works together during each step:

1. Team Selection

The first step is for you, the owner, to choose your design-build partner. This is the most critical decision. Owners should carefully check potential candidates and choose the team with the best experience and the one that understands their vision and budget.

While cost is important, it shouldn't be the only factor. Smart owners understand the value of working with a qualified builder like HKC Construction. Choosing a team based on skills and experience ensures a smoother process. During this phase, we often begin researching your building site to get a head start.

2. Pre-construction

This might seem like a short phase, but it is vital. During pre-construction, the design-builder learns about your business, your challenges, your budget, and your vision. It is the time for us to ask questions so we know exactly what to deliver.

During this time, our architects, engineers, and contractors work together to assess the site, existing structures, and electrical systems. This analysis helps us maximize efficiency before we even break ground.

3. Architectural Design

Once the project details—like timeline and location—are defined, the design begins. Because the builder is involved, we can assess areas for cost savings immediately. We ensure the design meets your style preferences while staying practical and buildable.

We present preliminary drawings to you and establish a firm price. Because the designer and contractor are on the same team, there are no "bidding wars," and the project can move to the next step quickly.

4. Construction

This is where the design-build method really shines. Often, we can begin preparing the construction site while the final designs are still being finished. This overlap speeds up the project significantly.

Communication is simple because you have one point of contact: HKC Construction. Because everyone is on the same team, accountability is high. If an issue arises, it is resolved quickly by the team. This collaborative environment means there are very few "change orders" (unexpected costs) during the build.

5. Post-construction

When the building is finished, the process isn't quite over. The design-build team provides you with a full overview of the project. We provide training materials, manuals, and in-person walkthroughs to ensure you know how to operate your new facility. Because one entity did all the work, this handover process is streamlined and organized.

The Benefits of the Design-Build Process

Why do so many commercial clients choose this method?

First, cost certainty. The budget is established very early, eliminating the scary risk of going over budget halfway through construction.

Second, speed. By simplifying the process and allowing the design and build phases to overlap, the project is completed much faster than traditional methods. This means you can occupy your building and get back to business sooner.

Third, collaboration. Because the team works together, there is less waste and fewer mistakes due to miscommunication. This results in a higher quality building and higher customer satisfaction.

The HKC Construction Advantage

With the design-build delivery method, HKC Construction serves as your single source of accountability. This saves you time, money, and headaches. We are responsible for selecting the right architectural and engineering partners for your specific needs.

We work hand-in-hand with the designers to ensure your project meets your goals without breaking the bank.

Cost Savings
Our leadership in both design and construction ensures we use materials prudently and work efficiently, reducing overall labor costs.

Accelerated Schedule
Because HKC Construction is involved from the very start, we can begin site preparation and foundation work while detailed designs are being finalized.

Hassle-free Relationships
You don't need to be the referee. We foster a team environment where the emphasis is on harmony and combined solutions, not arguments.

Time Savings
Efficiency is key. Our streamlined process ensures you can use your facility sooner than you thought possible.

Ready to start your project with a unified team?
We can handle your build from start to finish so you can focus on the growth of your brand.

Visit our services page to learn more:
https://www.hkcconstruction.com/services