Design / Bid / Build Method

Over the last century or so an interesting split has occurred in the construction industry in The U.S. as well as other countries. Traditionally one entity would provide a client with a path to the entire built environment. This entity was headed up by either a "Chief Architect" or a "Master Builder" who was tasked with the sole responsibility of bringing the project from concept to completion on time and on budget. It has now become common practice to work outside this cohesive model. The thought behind this deviation has been that the competitive bid method of gathering prices would result in providing a client with the best value. The theory is sound, but the practice has been flawed. There are certain parameters that must be met to achieve competitive bids. Failure to meet these parameters invariably results in cost overruns and time delays

  • All plans must be accurate  
  • All architectural specifications must be complete
  • All materials and finishes must be selected
  • All bidders must be of equal competence

The variability in delivery system quality, the all too common lack of clarity in clear expression of design intent between the client, the design firm, and the contractor, as well as many clients' lack of familiarity with general construction methods, scheduling order, building code compliance, and industry standards can result in an experience that is not satisfactory for the client, and often results in several rounds of finger pointing between the designer and the contractor, cost overruns with delays that result from failure of the designer to provide complete specifications to the contractor about finish materials and preferred installation methods. A special project may require special handling that is only available through the design build method, but if you have invested in plans and specifications generated by an architect, we will consider them on a  case by case basis. If they are to our standard we will probably generate a bid. If they are not biddable plans i.e. not complete enough for fixed pricing, then we will assess a fee to complete them and produce a fixed price. Please use the contact form below to request a  no charge evaluation of your plans

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