In the construction world, efficiency matters. Owners want projects delivered on time, within budget, and with as little stress as possible. That’s why the design-build approach has quickly become the preferred method for residential and commercial projects alike.
In fact, design-build now accounts for 47% of construction spending in the US, with that number expected to keep rising. Why? Because it works—saving time, reducing costs, and improving outcomes.
Why More Homeowners Are Choosing Design-Build
The design-build approach combines design and construction into one cohesive process, leading to several different benefits for homeowners. Let’s get into it.
Faster Delivery, Fewer Headaches
Time is money, and design-build delivers on both fronts. According to one source, design-build projects typically complete 33% faster and at a cost savings of up to 10% compared to traditional construction methods. With fewer handoffs, better communication between teams, and minimized delays, designs can be sent for permitting sooner—which means construction gets underway faster.
For project managers—and by extension, you—that means less time managing timelines, fewer schedule surprises, and faster access to a completed building.
Greater Cost Certainty
One of the biggest concerns in construction is the risk of going over budget. Design-build reduces this risk by fostering early collaboration between architects, builders, and owners, resulting in more accurate cost estimates, fewer changes, and fewer surprises.
This integrated approach consistently delivers greater cost certainty and lower cost overruns. When your builder is part of the design process, you get real-time insight into how design choices impact cost and feasibility.
One Team = One Contract and One Vision
With design-build, everyone is aligned from the start. This unity fosters better communication, faster problem-solving, and fewer change orders throughout the project. Owners report significantly higher satisfaction with design-build, with many describing their experience as “very good” or “excellent.”
That’s because with a single point of accountability, your team is working together—not in silos.
Project Types Where Design-Build Shines
Design-build isn’t just faster and more cost-effective; it’s also incredibly versatile. This integrated approach is ideal for a wide range of residential projects, particularly those that require close coordination between design and construction teams.
Whole Home Renovations
Whether you’re reimagining your layout, expanding your square footage, or modernizing outdated features, design-build provides the structure and flexibility to execute large-scale transformations smoothly and efficiently.
Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling
Bathrooms and kitchens are two of the most complex rooms in any home, where function, style, and technical considerations all collide. Design-build helps ensure your vision is executed seamlessly, from custom cabinetry to plumbing and lighting details.
Structural Modifications
For homes that need foundational repairs, framing adjustments, or support reinforcements, design-build keeps engineering, design, and construction in sync, avoiding delays and costly errors.
Custom Additions and Builds
From ADUs to second stories, design-build is well-suited for custom construction projects that benefit from early collaboration and unified project management.
Our Streamlined Design-Build Process
At MBK Constructors, we’ve refined our design-build approach to ensure efficiency, transparency, and high-quality results. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen or renovating your entire home, our process keeps your goals (and your budget) front and center.
Here’s how it works:
- First, you’ll meet with one of our project managers.
- We select an architect or designer from our existing network of vetted professionals who are aligned with your needs and preferences.
- We establish a preliminary budget with you based on the proposed scope of work.
- We enter into a pre-construction service agreement.
- We work with the designer to draft preliminary drawings and provide an estimate.
- We make necessary adjustments to ensure we stay within your budget.
- We finalize the design and construction plans, ensuring every detail meets your expectations.
- We move forward with construction, with your approval.
- We update you every step of the way, from securing permits to the final walkthrough.
- We perform a final inspection and complete a punch list, adding any finishing touches to ensure your home is exactly as you envisioned.
Ready to simplify your next renovation?