Design - Build Of Architectural Cladding and Glazing
Design-build is a construction project delivery system where the design and construction aspects are contracted for with a single entity known as the design-build contractor. This system is used to minimize the project risk for an owner and to reduce the delivery schedule by overlapping the design phase and construction phase of a project. Where the design-builder is the contractor, the design professionals are typically retained directly by the contractor.
Overview of Process
Design-build focuses on combining the design, approvals, and construction schedules in order to streamline the traditional construction environment. This does not shorten the time it takes to complete the individual tasks of creating working drawings and specifications, acquiring building and other approvals, or actually constructing the building. Instead, a design-build firm will strive to bring together design and construction professionals in a collaborative environment to complete these tasks at the same time.
The hallmark of a Design/Build project is that one organization is responsible for both design and construction of the project. If this organization is a contractor, the process is known as “Contractor-led Design-Build”.
Design - Build Of Buildings
It is important to note that the design-build method generally saves the owner money on the overall project. The combined effects of carrying a construction loan (which typically carries a higher interest rate than permanent financing) and an earlier useful on-line date usually yields considerable overall profitability to the project and may make seemingly unfeasible projects into genuine opportunities. This compression is an important aspect of the implementation of this system. Other attributes include:
- Enhanced communication between the design-builder and the client
- Increased accountability by the design-builder
- Single source project delivery
- Single source responsibility
- Effective cost and time management
Because the design parameters of a project are being developed along with the budgetary goals construction methodologies and budget conditions being weighed simultaneously, a project is more likely to be realized than with pure design approach. The owner has greater access to the “team” working on project development as the project is being developed. This efficiency is not a negative “short cut” as a rule, but rather the keystone to the success of the Design-Build model.
