The Definition and Advantages Of Design-Build Residential Construction
The Definition of Design-Build Construction
If you've watched any of the popular cable TV shows on HGTV or DIY like The Property Brothers, Chip and Joanna, or Rehab Addict, you've seen the concept of “design-build” in action. Basically, design-build offers homeowners a one-stop, seamless way to undertake a home remodeling project.
Many people not familiar with this concept think that you need a separate architect or designer, and a general contractor to do a project. While this used to be true, today, working with a design-build firm is a much more efficient and cost-effective way to approach a remodeling project.
Instead of having an interior designer or architect and a separate builder, design-build wraps both of these disciplines up into a single firm that does it all. Not only that, but most design-build firms will also take care of permitting and any engineering work required to build or remodel.
The design-build process is more in tune with the changing design and construction needs of today's homeowners. It's characterized by a high degree of collaboration between the designers and contractors, who typically work down the hall from each other in the same office. As a result, the risk for both teams is born by the same company. The rise in design-build's popularity is a result of the most recent trends in the building industry. Homeowners are typically seeking:
• Enhanced quality craftsmanship
• The ability to customize and personalize their projects
• The ability to better control budgets and reduce costs
• The need for shortened timelines and fast delivery
Today, design-build is the typical approach for smaller projects like kitchen and bathroom remodeling, but it can also accommodate much more complex building projects because of this collaborative approach between designers and contractors.
The Advantages of Hiring A Design-Build Firm
Now that you understand exactly what a design-build firm does, let's take a look at some of the most compelling reasons to hire a design-build firm for your next home remodeling project. Hiring a design-build firm enables you to tap into a wealth of experience and expertise right from the earliest stages of your project. You'll have a clear understanding of the scope of your project, a timeline, and a firm budget. Here are some of the many advantages you'll enjoy when you choose to work with a design-build firm.
• Expert Guidance
One of the biggest benefits of working with a design-build firm is the guidance you'll receive throughout your project. Because you have a single source for all aspects of your remodeling, you'll have experienced professionals guiding you through every step from design, through construction.
• Smoother Process
Because everyone is working on the same team, you'll enjoy clear communication as you develop your plan. You'll also have fewer issues that can lead to higher costs and delays. Working with a design-build firm eliminated much of the hassle because you're working with an established team. Problems that may arise like budget issues are addressed from the earliest stages of your project. Your design-build firm will work with you to best allocate your budget, giving you guidance on the best way to spend your budget, ways you can save money, and where you should splurge based on your needs.
• Enjoy Timeless Design
The design is right in the name! A design-build firm will have talented designers on staff that are current with the latest industry trends, colors, fixtures, finishes, and technologies available to homeowners. They have experience designing spaces that are functional as well as aesthetically beautiful. A good designer will be able to understand your ideas and work with you to maximize your budget and realize your creative vision. With so many choices available, it's normal to feel overwhelmed. A project manager and team of professionals can help reduce your stress by guiding you through your options to arrive at the best solution to meet your needs.
• Cost-Effective
Working with a design-build firm is also a cost-effective way to complete a project. You'll save money over hiring individual consultants like an interior designer, engineer, architect, and contractor. When you choose to work with a design-build firm, you're often getting all of these specialists under one roof. Because your budget is being administered by a single entity, it can be better allocated among the trades based on need. In the long run, you'll get more for your budget with a design-build firm.
• No Surprises!
The design-build process avoids nasty surprises because you establish your budget upfront, and your designer and contractor are with you every step of the way to give you accurate information and the answers you need to make an informed decision. This process works especially well for projects like a kitchen or bathroom remodel. Design-build is a team-based approach. All members of the team, including the client, work together to provide their input and expertise to the project
Here at Toulmin Kitchen & Bath, we work closely with our clients from the first free-consultation and subsequent initial meetings right through the completion of their project. We make sure that there are no surprises. Budgets and timelines are discussed, and we understand that any project in the home is disruptive, so we go to every length to make the design-build process as easy for our clients as possible, from start to finish.
Our five-step design-build process ensures that your kitchen, master suite, or specialty project exceeds your expectations!
If you're planning a remodeling project in the greater Tuscaloosa, Alabama area, give the experts at Toulmin Kitchen & Bath a call at (205) 366-0807. Let our award-winning design team help you to create the home of your dreams!
