What Is Design-Build and Why It Works

When it comes to commercial construction, the method you choose can have a major impact on your project’s outcome. Traditionally, construction projects are completed using a design-bid-build model, where the design and construction phases are handled by separate entities. But there’s a more streamlined alternative that’s gaining traction for good reason: design-build construction.

So, what exactly is design-build—and why does it work so well?

What Is Design-Build?

In the design-build model, one company manages the entire project, from initial design and architectural planning to permitting and construction. Instead of hiring a separate architect, engineer, and general contractor, you have a single point of contact overseeing every detail.

This integrated approach fosters better communication, clearer accountability, and faster project delivery. Everyone works together, aligned by the same goals and timeline.

Key Benefits of Design-Build Construction

1. Speed to Completion
Design-build projects typically move faster. With design and construction running concurrently—and fewer handoffs or delays—you can break ground sooner and finish ahead of schedule.

2. Streamlined Communication
There’s no “middleman” between architect and builder. Your project benefits from real-time collaboration, immediate feedback, and fewer miscommunications.

3. Single Point of Accountability
Rather than juggling multiple contracts and consultants, the design-build model gives you one go-to team that’s responsible for outcomes, quality, and budget control.

4. Budget Control and Transparency
By integrating design with construction early in the process, design-build teams can align scope and cost from day one. That means fewer surprises and more accurate budgeting.

5. Flexible Problem Solving
Unexpected challenges are inevitable in construction. A design-build firm can adapt quickly, making in-the-field changes without disrupting timelines or re-starting the design process.

Common Misconceptions About Design-Build

• “Design-build limits creativity.”
  On the contrary, working with one team can enhance creativity. Architects and builders collaborate from the start, producing innovative, realistic solutions.
  
• “It only works for simple projects.”
  In fact, design-build excels in complex commercial projects, where coordination, scheduling, and cost control are critical.
  
• “You lose control as the client.”
  With clear communication and early involvement, clients gain more visibility, not less. You’re part of the process from day one.
  

What Types of Projects Are Ideal for Design-Build?

Design-build is especially effective for:

• Tenant improvements and office renovations
  
• Medical or compliance-driven facilities
  
• Retail and hospitality upgrades
  
• Time-sensitive remodels
  
• Projects requiring phased construction around live operations
  

Whether you’re on a tight deadline or need real-time decision-making, design-build can offer the flexibility and efficiency your business demands.

Case Study: Liberty Bay Marina Office Renovation

A great example of design-build in action is the office remodel we completed for Liberty Bay Marina. This commercial renovation required modernizing the space, addressing ADA compliance, and completing construction without shutting down daily operations.

Our integrated team worked closely with the client to:

• Meet evolving code requirements
  
• Adapt the design mid-project for layout improvements
  
• Coordinate trades efficiently to meet a tight timeline
  

This project showed how design-build allows for agility without sacrificing quality—something that’s difficult to achieve in the traditional design-bid-build model.

Why We Believe in Design-Build at Erickson Construction

At Erickson Construction, design-build isn’t just a trend—it’s a process that reflects how we believe construction should be done. We’ve seen firsthand how this model reduces stress for clients, speeds up delivery, and creates better results.

Whether it’s a full-scale tenant improvement or a strategic office upgrade, design-build allows us to align our craftsmanship, coordination, and creativity in a way that benefits everyone involved.

Ready to explore if design-build is right for your next project? We’d love to walk you through how it works—and how it can work for you.