In the past, the process of renovating or building a home involved working separately with an architect, designer and general contractor, but design-build firms have changed all that. Design-build firms are growing in popularity as more and more homeowners want to streamline the renovation and homebuilding processes. 

A design-build firm is a “one-stop shop”, which means that the firm takes care of design and construction services from start to finish. These types of firms employ architects, designers, builders, contractors, tradespeople, and other professionals who take a collaborative approach to homebuilding. If you’re wondering if a design-build firm is right for your project, ask yourself these questions to help you make an informed decision: 

Am I Running on a Tight Schedule?

Conflict between architects, designers and contractors can seriously slow down any project. Everyone who works for a design-build firm is on the same team, and part of the project manager’s job is to keep things moving, which can result in much faster completion of a job. Another advantage to using this type of firm is that building can often begin even if a few final details need to be ironed out. 

What Is My Budget?

If money is no object and you’re not pressed for time, the traditional design-bid-build model may work for you. However, poor communication and disagreements between designers, architects and builders can end up causing stress and costing you more money. The collaborative approach of the design-build model means that your designer and contractor are working together under one contract, which gives them more motivation to come to agreements quickly and helps keep everyone on the same page when it comes to budget.

Am I Feeling Overwhelmed?

Whether you’re doing major renovations on a home or building a new house from scratch, the design-build process can be extremely challenging and overwhelming. Getting bids, negotiating multiple contracts and managing conflicting ideas and personalities is often emotionally taxing. Using a design-build firm takes the stress and guesswork out of the project management and building process because your designers, architect and contractors all work under one roof. 

Do I Want My Home to Be Energy-efficient?

Many design-build firms specialize in designing and creating homes and buildings that are environmentally friendly, energy-efficient and cost-saving in the long run. Hiring a reputable design-build firm with credentials and expertise in this area is a good choice if you are looking to incorporate eco-friendly features. Make sure to use a firm with LEED certification, and don’t be afraid to ask about their guiding principles when it comes to being environmentally responsible, sustainable and energy-efficient.

By asking yourself these questions, you’ll be able to determine whether or not a design-build firm is right for your project. For more home renovation tips, read here:

• Should I Stay or Should I Go Now: Deciding Whether or Not to Move Out During a Kitchen Remodel
• How to Ensure Your Landscape Redesign Project Is a Success
• Important Prep Work All Homeowners Must Do Before Renovating Their Bathroom