What is Design Build Remodeling?
There’s a lot of information out there about the design-build process for new construction, but what does that process look like for remodeling projects?
If you’re new to the idea of design-build remodeling, we’re here to help. Let’s take a closer look at what it is, as well as what benefits it can provide for your home.
What Is Design-Build Remodeling?
“Design-build” is a project-based system where one agency, or design-build team, is responsible for all of the project’s contracted design and construction services. This means that a cohesive team of designers, architects, engineers, and carpenters all work in close collaboration from beginning to end of a project, streamlining the design and build processes for improved efficiency and results.
When it comes to remodeling, this design-build definition applies similarly. All members of the design-build team are still included in the process, they’re just working on a smaller, transformative scale rather than a custom home project built from the ground up.
Although design-build remodels usually involve a smaller lift than new construction, they can vary quite a bit in scope. The design-build methodology works well for both single-room projects and master-planned, whole-home remodels that involve many different rooms and projects.
How Is Design-Build Remodeling Different from Traditional Remodeling?
When comparing design-build remodeling with traditional methods of remodeling, you’ll see a number of differences in the overall process. Below, we’ll outline a few of that standout.
The Traditional Remodel Process
With a traditional remodel, you (the homeowner) are in charge of managing all communication and collaboration between your designer, architect, and contractor (all operating with different firms).
If you work with a designer, all of their recommendations and plans are outside of your contractor’s purview. You’re responsible for bringing these items to your contractor and ensuring that they’re able to implement what you want. You’re also responsible for all remodeling selections.
While this works for some, managing a full-home project without much expert guidance on what will and won’t work is a big lift. In most cases, it’s more than what the working homeowner wants to (or has capacity to) handle, and can lead to a lot of construction delays, last-minute design changes, and overall hassle for you, the homeowner.
The Design-Build Remodeling Process
With a design-build remodel, your design, selection support, and construction services are all wrapped into one cohesive plan.
You get a team of experts working alongside each other to figure out how to best bring your dream remodel to life. You don’t have to deal with any of the logistics or communication elements, but you’re still able to be a collaborative partner in the process.
What Are the Benefits of Design-Build Remodeling?
Design-build remodeling offers many undeniable benefits to homeowners, including:
- Streamlined process – Your budget, design, and construction are included in a seamless process that flows from step to step without disruption or confusion.
- Collaboration among designers and contractors – Design and construction teams work in constant communication with each other, and with you.
- Smarter budgeting – Building your budget at the start of the design process ensures there are no cost surprises outside of any changes you specifically decide to make.
- Efficient delivery – Full-team collaboration streamlines processes and shortens delivery times.
Improved design – With a team of experienced designers at your side, you’re going to end up with a more cohesive finished product than you might have achieved with a traditional general contractor.
What Are Some Common Concerns About Design-Build Remodeling?
Design-build remodeling is a process that’s proven to be effective and efficient. However, it’s normal to have some apprehension before jumping in. Below, we’ll clear up two of the most common questions we get from homeowners looking to remodel with our design-build team.
Does Design-Build Remodeling Cost More?
Design-build remodeling costs vary from project to project. In many cases, the upfront costs may seem higher than what a traditional contractor will quote you. That said, since the design-build process starts with budget planning and you’ve outlined exactly what you’ll pay from start to finish, you won’t experience any surprises down the line. Furthermore, streamlining the component parts of your project will save you time and money at the end of the day. Design-build remodels tend to stick very closely to that initial budget, minimizing any surprises as your project gets underway.
Does Design-Build Remodeling Take Longer?
The design-build process may take longer than a traditional remodel. That’s because of the added design component that doesn’t come with a traditional remodeling contractor. This design support is what helps you achieve the most bang for your buck as well as a beautifully renovated home.
In general, if you were to compare just the construction timelines for a traditional vs. a design-build remodeling project, you’ll often find that construction itself is actually faster with a design-build contractor. That’s because you’ve completed much of the difficult decision-making in the design phase, ensuring construction can move along smoothly.
Is A Design-Build Remodel Right for My Boulder, CO Home?
Hoping to remodel one or more aspects of your home? You may want to consider working with a design-build team. We can deliver the home you’ve been dreaming of in a straightforward, well-organized manner that leads to a spectacular result. If the design-build process sounds like what you’re looking for in your upcoming Boulder, CO remodel project, get in touch with Tectonic Design + Build today!
