Design-build construction is on the rise as the most commonly used project delivery method in the United States, Design-build construction is widely used for both private and public sector projects, spanning across all project types, including vertical (building) construction, transportation, and water/wastewater markets. A design-build contractor replaces the traditional method of the designers and contractors being on separate contracts. With this team-like approach, the owner, designers, contractors, and subcontractors work together on projects to exceed the owner’s expectations in a timely, cost-efficient manner. The team is intended to be highly collaborative, trustworthy, respectful, and creatively innovative. Design-build allows for faster project delivery, lower unit costs, and less schedule and growth costs.

Design-Build vs Traditional Method Comparison for Custom Homes

The traditional method of project construction includes the homeowner managing and mediating two (or more) separate contracts between contractors. With the owner in the middle, it can easily become their job to coordinate between the two parties, causing stress, schedule delays, and project conflicts. The cost of the project is also often re-evaluated and often increased due to possible redesigns. This traditional method creates a siloed working environment between project contractors, which can lead to conflict, miscommunication, and unfortunate outcomes for the project budget and schedule. 

Design-build offers one singular point of contact to homeowners, making a custom home build or remodeling project more efficient and far less stressful. 

Benefits of Choosing a Design-Build Contractor

With its clear benefits, design-build contracting is becoming the fastest-growing project delivery method. Research shows that there are many benefits of hiring a design-build contractor, including: 

• Higher quality project outcomes
• Collaboration that drives innovation
• Faster, more cost-effective project delivery
• Fewer changes, fewer claims, and less litigation
• Allocation of risk to those who can best manage it
• Earlier knowledge of firm costs
• An expert pre-construction planning process

Especially for custom home builds, a design-build process offers a seamless experience to homeowners, making this an excellent choice.

Our Approach to Design-Build Contracting

Based in New Jersey, White Maple Construction guarantees a client-focused design-build process, which includes a detailed and thorough pre-construction phase. Our pre-construction process sets us apart: our meticulous attention to detail minimizes the chance of unexpected, frustrating changes and costly delays. The more developed a construction project becomes, the more difficult (and expensive) it is to make changes. We ensure thorough planning at the beginning to exceed your expectations with your final results. Our pre-construction phase includes: 

1 – Project design kickoff meeting

To begin pre-construction, we’ll schedule an on-site meeting with you, along with our architect, pre-construction manager, selections coordinator, and project manager, to discuss the project.

2 – Preliminary schematic design

Our architect will create a preliminary schematic design that translates your vision into a feasible plan. This involves exploring floor plan development, space planning options, and initial ideas on style and aesthetics.

3 – Construction documents

Our architect will prepare the permit and construction documents based on your approved design package.

4 – Selections

Our selections coordinator will work closely with you to help with making all selections before construction begins.

5 – Detailed construction cost estimating

With your selections and architectural plans finalized, our estimator will develop a highly accurate construction estimate. This process includes gathering competitive bids from our network of trusted subcontractors, ensuring the best value for your investment.

6 – Obtain permits

We will collect the required paperwork from our subcontractors and submit the construction permit application.

7 – Handoff

Our pre-construction and operations teams hold an internal handoff meeting to go through the final design, specifications, and selections, and discuss any open issues.

How Much Does Design-Build Service Cost?

The design-build approach can save up to 20% compared to more traditional delivery methods. Many different factors go into how much a design-build contractor costs, such as project scope, architectural design, location, and materials. In New Jersey, the cost of a design-build contractor can range from $200-$800 per square foot. Some may charge a percentage of the total project cost, while others work based on a fixed fee. Land and permit prices are also usually excluded from the design-build project fees. 

Start Your New Jersey Design-Build Process with a Free Estimate

Based in Oakland, New Jersey, White Maple Construction provides design-build contracting services throughout Northern New Jersey. We are committed to delivering a beautifully designed and expertly constructed home addition or remodel that meets your needs, exceeds your expectations, and aligns with your budget. Contact us today for a free consultation and estimate.