Updated May 2025.
As the saying goes, you can hardly throw a rock without hitting a sign for 'design/build' construction.
When you're thinking about building a new home, or remodeling your current place, it's useful to know the basics of design/build. A little knowledge goes a long way in helping you choose the right team and what to expect in the process.
Design/build is a project management approach that involves designer and builder working together closely from the beginning of the project, whereas a more traditional project would bid out the design and construction phases separately.
- But what are the pros and cons of each approach?
- Is one approach more expensive than the other?
- Who advocates for the homeowner throughout the project?
These are great questions that we hear a lot. So, we've written up four blog posts - together they can provide you with a (free!) crash course in design/build basics.
Invest a little time to read through them, and you'll be ahead of the curve in knowing what you want and how you want it delivered.
Design/build basics
- How is design/build different from the traditional bidding process?
- A design/build glossary for homeowners - key terms, project stages, documents types and more.
Design/build in-depth
- Is design/build more expensive?
- How design/build contracts work (or should)
- How to choose your design/build firm
- Value engineering in design/build: getting the most for your money
Let us know which posts you find most helpful, and what other questions you have.
We've also written up a walkthrough specifically about the architectural design process and why it makes sense to start your project with a designer who can help refine your vision and bring it life.
About the author: GMT Home Designs founder Glenn M. Travis has 30+ years' experience in architectural design. Learn more about our design/build services for homeowners and for contractors.