The Advantages of Design/Build Remodeling
--Mark and Rhonda Bickford, Ithaca
The Old Way
Traditionally, a remodeling project required the expertise of two totally separate professions, architecture and construction. First you would hire an architect to design and specify your project according to your needs and desires. Then you would hire a contractor to actually turn the design into reality by constructing the project according to the drawings – that is if the projects cost didn’t exceed the anticipated budget. Sadly, many projects never actually get built even though they have been completely designed because they end up grossly exceeding the anticipated budget.
With this traditional approach there is usually very little, if any, communication between the architect and the contractor prior to actual construction. This means that any ideas that the contractor may have such as a more cost effective solution to a particular design challenge, or a more appropriate material or product, or just a better way of doing something in general doesn’t get incorporated into the plan. This can often result in expensive change orders or settling for the less than ideal solutions.
The New Way
The professional Design/Build approach is a "one-stop-shop" approach to home building and remodeling that has revolutionized residential remodeling in many important ways. While the approach is not necessarily new, Design/Build has become very popular because it eliminates many of the common problems, frustrations and set-backs associated with the traditional approach.
By combining the services and expertise of the contractor, the architect and/or designer into one unified service you allow the architect/designer and the contractor to work together as a cohesive team in a very synergistic way. This typically results in a much more effective process from beginning to end with fewer changes during construction and in many cases a much higher level of client satisfaction.
Other Notable Advantages of Design/Build Include:
- The Design-Build contractor provides the owner with a single point of accountability. This virtually eliminates any finger pointing between the architect and contractor.
- The project is designed to your needs and desires with a realistic budget in mind. If costs begin to exceed the anticipated budget, you know almost immediately and can adjust as needed.
- Maximizes your return on investment. Design and construction costs are typically less expensive because the architect and contractor can communicate during the design process.
- The design process is typically faster allowing us to start your project sooner.
- The lines of communication are simplified and chances for misunderstandings are greatly reduced.
- Because the contractor is chosen and gets involved in the very beginning you will have a much better relationship with the contractor. Communication between you the client and the contractor is greatly improved.
- Greater level of trust and confidence between client and contractor.
- The contractor has a much better sense of your needs and desires having been involved from the very beginning.
- Proven process that produces quality results and high satisfaction levels.
Learn more about our proven Design/Build process that is second to none!
Do you already have completed or started plans for a remodel, addition, or other construction project? We would be happy to discuss your project with you regardless.
Contact us today to discuss your project with a professional or to schedule a FREE, in-home Consultation and Remodeling Needs Assessment. We will respond to all inquiries within 24 hours. We look forward to hearing from you!