Design Build Project
A vibrant Design Build Project – a transformation to a three level townhome.
Project included working with Dialog Design to plan coring through the concrete slab on the main floor through to the parkade below to relocate the kitchen and huge island.
The home ties together with a Lutron Radio RA System to consolidate all light switching, a full home automation Control 4 system over all three levels and a robust multi level Lutron Motorized Blinds package. Integrated audio, security, climate and lighting themes allow for one touch and remote control.
Design concept by Thesis Design.
Photography by Onikon Creative.
Design Build Project: How Costo Construction Leads with Experience and Collaboration for Success
In the competitive landscape of modern construction, the Design Build Project approach has emerged as the preferred method for delivering projects efficiently, cost-effectively, and with high quality. At Costo Construction, we have built a reputation for excellence in managing and executing successful design build projects by bringing together top-tier design professionals, consultants, trades, and owners to work collaboratively from project inception to completion.
This article explores the advantages of the Design Build Project model, how Costo Construction leverages its experience and expertise to deliver exceptional results, and why this integrated approach is favored by owners seeking predictable outcomes, aligned budgets, and high standards.
What Is a Design Build Project?
A Design Build Project is a construction delivery method where a single entity—either a contractor or a designated design-build firm—provides both design and construction services under a unified contract. This contrasts with traditional design-bid-build models, where design and construction are separate phases managed by different entities.
Key Features of a Design Build Project:
Early collaboration among designers, contractors, and owners
Single point of accountability
Overlapping design and construction phases
Shared risk and reward
Focus on delivering scope, schedule, and budget predictability
Supporting Source: The Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) emphasizes that design build fosters collaboration, innovation, and efficiency, reducing project delivery time and cost (https://www.dbia.org/).
Costo Construction’s Experience and Expertise in Delivering Design Build Projects
Costo Construction has extensive experience managing Design Build Projects across diverse sectors, including commercial, healthcare, hospitality, and multi-family developments. Over the years, we’ve demonstrated that a well-executed design build approach results in projects that meet or exceed client expectations—on time, within scope, and on budget.
Our Approach:
Early Engagement:** We work with owners, architects, engineers, and consultants from project conception. This proactive involvement ensures design feasibility, constructability, and alignment with financial goals.
Collaborative Planning:** We facilitate open communication among all stakeholders, promoting shared understanding and buy-in.
Integrated Teams:** Our network includes top design professionals, specialized trades, and consultants, all working together under our management to streamline decision-making.
Risk Mitigation:** By identifying potential issues early, we minimize change orders, delays, and cost overruns.
Supporting Article: The Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) highlights that early integration of design and construction teams reduces project risks and enhances quality (https://cmaanet.org/).
How We Bring Design Professionals, Consultants, and Trades Together
The Power of Collaboration
In a Design Build Project, success hinges on the seamless integration of multiple disciplines. At Costo Construction, we facilitate this by:
Assembling the Right Team:** We partner with architects, engineers, and consultants with proven experience in our client’s project type.
Coordinating Design and Construction:** We hold joint planning sessions, design reviews, and constructability assessments early in the process.
Aligning Objectives:** We ensure that scope, budget, schedule, and quality standards are aligned from the outset.
Continuous Communication:** Regular meetings and digital collaboration tools keep all parties informed and engaged.
Benefits to Owners
Owners benefit from this collaborative environment through:
Reduced Schedule:** Overlapping design and construction phases cut down project timelines.
Cost Certainty:** Early cost estimates and value engineering prevent budget overruns.
Higher Quality:** Integrated teams focus on delivering craftsmanship and finishes that meet high standards.
Shared Responsibility:** Risk sharing leads to greater accountability and transparency.
External Link: The Design-Build Institute of America states that collaborative project delivery models improve stakeholder satisfaction and project performance (https://www.dbia.org/).
Advantages of the Design Build Model Even When Contractor and Designer Are Separate Entities
It’s a common misconception that Design Build Project success requires the contractor and designer to be the same entity. However, the model is flexible and can involve multiple firms working under a well-coordinated structure.
Key Advantages:
Early Collaboration:** Regardless of separate entities, early involvement of the contractor in design review ensures constructability and cost control.
Shared Goals:** A project delivery team with aligned incentives fosters cooperation.
Streamlined Communication:** Clear protocols and integrated project management tools reduce misunderstandings.
Flexibility:** Owners can select their preferred design firms while still benefiting from the collaborative process.
Supporting Article: The McGraw-Hill Construction report highlights that even with separate design and construction firms, early collaboration and integrated project delivery lead to better outcomes (https://www.construction.com/).
Why Owners Favor the Design Build Approach
Predictability:** Fixed budgets and schedules reduce financial and operational risks.
Faster Delivery:** Concurrent design and construction phases shorten timelines.
Higher Quality:** Continuous collaboration ensures craftsmanship meets high standards.
Reduced Change Orders:** Early problem-solving minimizes costly modifications.
Single Point of Responsibility:** Owners have one contract and one team accountable for project success.
External Link: The U.S. General Services Administration advocates for design build as a way to improve project outcomes and stakeholder satisfaction (https://www.gsa.gov/).
How Costo Construction Ensures Project Success in Design Build Projects
Proven Track Record
Our team has delivered numerous Design Build Projects, demonstrating expertise in managing complex, multi-disciplinary teams and delivering results that exceed owner expectations.
Early-Stage Involvement
From conceptual planning to detailed design, we engage early to provide critical feedback on feasibility, constructability, safety, and cost. This proactive involvement prevents delays and reduces risks.
Risk Management and Safety
We prioritize safety by developing comprehensive safety plans, adhering to OSHA standards, and managing hazards related to existing structures, materials, and site conditions.
Focus on Sustainability
Our approach includes sustainable practices such as waste reduction, eco-friendly materials, and energy-efficient systems—adding long-term value and aligning with modern environmental standards.
Supporting Article: The U.S. Green Building Council emphasizes that collaborative project delivery enhances sustainability outcomes (https://www.usgbc.org/).
Summary: Why Choose Costo Construction for Your Design Build Project
Certified Expertise:** CCM and CPM certifications ensure adherence to industry standards.
Collaborative Approach:** We foster early, transparent communication among all stakeholders.
Experience in Complex Projects:** Our portfolio includes high-end commercial, healthcare, and institutional projects.
Focus on Safety and Sustainability:** Critical in today’s construction environment.
Owner-Centric Service:** We prioritize your goals, budget, and schedule.
Final Thoughts
A Design Build Project offers a streamlined, collaborative approach that aligns stakeholders from day one, resulting in projects that are faster, more cost-effective, and higher in quality. At Costo Construction, we leverage our certifications, experience, and industry partnerships to deliver projects that meet the highest standards of safety, sustainability, and craftsmanship.
If you’re considering a new construction or renovation project, partnering with a proven design build team like Costo Construction ensures your vision becomes a reality—on time and on budget.
Resources & External Links
https://www.dbia.org/
https://www.gsa.gov/
https://www.usgbc.org/
https://www.construction.com/
Contact Costo Construction today to learn how our integrated design build process can bring your project to successful completion—safely, sustainably, and to the highest standards. https://costoconstruction.com/uncategorized/best-value-practices/
