Benefits of Design/Build Remodeling
The term "Design/Build" gets used alot these days, but what exactly does it mean? And what are the real benefits of this approach to a project?
Several years ago, as I was in the early stages of growing my business, I was still in the mode of "bidding" plans drafted by an architect that was hired directly by the homeowner. Unfortunately, after going through the process of getting quotes from subs and putting together a neat professional proposal for the homeowner, it seemed that the vast majority of the time we discovered that the costs to construct the proposed project were well over the homeowner's anticipated budget. These homeowners had spent a decent amount of money to have these plans drawn, and were clearly well along their way to establishing a certain expectation of turning their project into a reality. It was very discouraging to deliver this news to the homeowner and see their disappointment as they realized they had to re-assess their project.
This is one of the reasons that led us to embrace the Design/Build process. One of the most important and beneficial aspects of this process is that the "budget discussion" takes place early on, before plans are drawn. In other words, a good design/build contractor should be able to determine an overal budget range for a project after spending a couple of hours (or less) assessing the project, getting to know their client and learning what they hope to accomplish. This budget discussion is extremely important to have in the beginning, early stages of a project and leads to a much better process for the client. Once the parameters and expectations for both sides are established, it is now the responsibility and obligation of the Design/Build Contractor to develop a set of plans and scope of work that not only meets the clients' wants and needs, but most importantly it meets their BUDGET!!
What a concept, designing to meet a pre-established and agreed-upon budget! Better to discuss budget up-front, rather than after thousands of dollars are spent drafting a set of plans that will never get used.
Unless, of course, budget is of no concern. In that case, please give us a call at your earliest convenience!