Seamless, Collaborative and Efficient: Of Course You Should Choose A Design Build Firm Over a Traditional Construction Company

Written By Dylan Ochala

The Difference Between Design Build vs. Design-Bid-Build

In the more traditional design-bid-build model, architects, contractors, and subcontractors often work independently from one another. That means separate contracts and entities that execute the design and construction of a project. This fragmented approach can lead to discrepancies in budget, time, and communication. Architects and designers often design without a budget in mind, which means many times you have to return to the drawing board to redesign with your set budget. This back-and-forth is uneconomical; wasting time and money. 

As Boulder’s healthy home builder, Tectonic believes there is a better way. During our custom home builds, we emphasize efficiency, collaboration, transparency, and ease for our clients. After all, isn’t this supposed to be fun? We build the budget with you during the design process so you have an accurate budget grounded in the goals of the project.

From concept to completion, our in-house team handles everything from design and permits to construction and final finishes. We take care of the heavy lifting, so you don’t have to.

Communication is at the Core of What We Do 

At Tectonic, we understand that embarking on a home remodel or new construction project can be overwhelming. From budgeting to building, there are many facets to executing your home build in Boulder. Combined, our team has decades of industry experience with an aptitude for excellence while our refined process prioritizes communication and transparency. 

Oftentimes in the traditional design-bid-build model, there is fragmentation due to the architect and builder working separately. This can cause misunderstandings, affect timelines, and create a disconnect between budget and design. Through Tectonic’s custom home build process, we offer intimate, built-in relationships that greatly minimize the opportunity for misunderstandings, which are often costly. Each step of your project is managed by a single team dedicated to the details and ensuring you are integral to every decision. This helps avoid the common pitfalls that can come with traditional construction projects. Through clear communication with both the builder and the design team each step of the way, we reduce confusion around the cost and development of your design-build project. 

Our company culture is built on communication. For example, when we transition to building, our design team has already briefed the production team who have an intimate knowledge of the project. When questions arise, our team is on-call to clarify, discuss, and provide on-site reviews for a smooth process that reduces pain points. We also offer consistent updates to clients as well as address concerns and feedback. When it comes time for your final walkthrough, there should be no surprises—only excitement and admiration for your vision come to life.

Check out our portfolio of extraordinary residential remodels in Colorado.

Creative Collaboration Equals Trust and Transparency 

By taking a collaborative approach to custom home builds, we include the client in every step. True partnership begins with empathy, the ability to listen, and understand your intention of the project. To ensure that any issues are addressed promptly and effectively, we are transparent and honest every step of the way, and you can trust we will always have your back. This results in a project that is completed on schedule and within your budget. 

We have reimagined the construction process by bringing together a multidisciplinary team of professionals under one single roof. From architects and interior designers to general contractors, carpenters, and project managers, we integrate all aspects of the building process to streamline operations and maximize efficiency. One of the key advantages of working with a design-build firm like Tectonic is that discrepancies in budget, time, and communication are greatly reduced. Having an integrated team like ours offers you a full-service experience that you simply cannot get with a traditional construction company. All of our designers and architects are in-house. What exactly does that mean? 

It means that our Director of design, Kate King, will be at the helm of creating your custom-built home with her comprehensive and passionate approach to design. It means that Jen Burns will be right there supporting the design process in her fun and vibrant style. When it comes to architecture, Graham Ouwerkerk has a wealth of knowledge regarding high-performance building and our project management team led by Shawn Kenne establishes the alignment between all partners and the intended design. Finally, our skilled carpentry team always comes through with finite attention to detail and uncompromised quality. 

That’s us. We're kind of like a family over here, and when it comes to family, we know how important the residential space is. At Tectonic, we take the custom home build a few steps further; constructing beautiful, sustainable, and healthy homes. Think less toxicity, improved indoor air quality, and better ventilation systems. Health and beauty really can live in harmony.

Do you have questions about how we create our high-performing homes in Boulder? Connect with our team of experts today!

Executed with Excellence 

At Tectonic, we believe that every project should be a collaborative, transparent, and seamless experience for our clients. From the moment you walk through our doors, you'll be greeted by a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to realizing your unique vision for your custom home build.  Whether you're looking to remodel your existing home or embark on a new construction project, we work with you every step of the way to ensure your complete satisfaction. Our goal is not just to build houses, but to create homes that reflect your unique style, personality, and values.

When considering the advantages and disadvantages of enlisting a custom home builder versus the traditional design-bid-build model, communication, collaboration, and transparency must be at the center. Here at Tectonic Design Build, our integrated services are seamless and efficient from frame to finish. It’s about building better by applying the highest standards that are both sustainable and healthy for you and your family. 

Sustainable luxury never looked so good.  

Schedule a Discovery Call with our Team Today to Chat About Your Project!