For years, the commercial construction industry has used the design-bid-build (DBB) project delivery model, where the design and construction phases are contracted separately. But today, contractors and project owners are realizing there’s a more efficient way to do things: and that’s the design-build method. 

Design-build construction is a project delivery method that combines all phases under one contract. This simplified process strengthens communication, planning, and efficiency, resulting in faster project completion and better outcomes overall. 

In this blog, we explore the unique advantages of design-build construction for commercial projects, from improved teamwork to quality control and more. 

6 Advantages of Design-Build Commercial Construction

Traditionally, commercial construction projects are carried out through a design-bid-build (DBB) delivery system. This means the design and construction processes are contracted separately. 

The design-build (DB) method is a modern, more efficient approach to project delivery. It unifies the design and construction phases under one contract for a more streamlined and collaborative workflow—resulting in many benefits that we explore below. 

1. Improved Teamwork and Collaboration 

Design-build construction is a highly collaborative process. By bringing all stakeholders together under one contract, it eliminates traditional silos and creates a unified team with a shared goal. This helps reduce miscommunication and conflicting ideas for better teamwork, improved efficiency, and more effective problem-solving when challenges arise. 

2. Accurate Project Planning 

Pre-construction planning sets the framework for the entire project. It typically includes: 

• Assessing project feasibility 
• Finalizing design plans with architects and engineers 
• Developing a budget with a contingency fund 
• Applying value engineering to optimize costs 
• Identifying potential setbacks and planning solutions in advance 
• Creating a detailed and realistic project schedule 
• Defining project scope with clear goals and deliverables 

The design-build model improves the planning phase by bringing designers, engineers, and contractors together from the start. Each expert provides unique insights—designers focus on aesthetics and functionality, engineers ensure structural integrity, and contractors provide practical input on construction methods and project management. 

This well-rounded collaboration leads to more precise decision-making, better cost estimates, and a proactive approach to potential challenges. 

3. Streamlined Communication

Design-build firms use in-house architects, engineers, and builders who all share the same communication channels. This open and direct communication ensures that project changes and progress reports are properly relayed to all stakeholders. It also allows for more efficient problem-solving. 

By eliminating communication gaps, the design-build model helps prevent costly issues like budget overruns, schedule delays, and unexpected setbacks—keeping everything on track from start to finish. 

4. Faster Project Delivery 

According to the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA), the design-build construction method is 36% faster.¹ 

During design-build construction, stakeholders do not have to navigate the complexity of multiple contracts. This simplified approach can free up space in the project schedule for other priorities or shorten the overall delivery time. Design-build projects may also have fewer delays due to enhanced accuracy and communication throughout the entire project. 

5. Improved Quality Control 

Since the design-build model is so collaborative, it’s much easier to ensure quality at every stage of the project. With architects, engineers, and contractors working together from the start, potential design flaws, structural concerns and other issues can be caught early—before they become costly problems. This proactive approach ensures smoother construction and exceptional quality. 

Partner With an Experienced Design-Build Construction Firm in Idaho 

Partnering with an experienced design-build firm can help improve efficiency, minimize risk, and ensure a smoother process with exceptional results. 

At DRF Builders, we have years of experience completing commercial construction projects with the highest quality standards. From renovations and remodels to tenant improvements, we offer comprehensive commercial construction services to help maximize the potential of your business. 

Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact us online or call 707-888-0713 to get in touch with a team member today.