Design-Build: A Symphony of Efficiency
The design-build construction delivery method is an integrated methodology that combines the design and construction phases into a single, cohesive process, streamlining communication and collaboration among all stakeholders involved. By bringing the owner, architect and general contractor together from a project’s inception, design-build composes a unified and harmonious environment where each player contributes their own unique part, orchestrating a symphony of efficiency.
Our design-build portfolio totals over $1.6 billion. This track record of success utilizing the method encompasses a wide range of project types across every SpawGlass division, demonstrating its advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness, time efficiency and overall project quality. From large-scale demolition to complex renovation to the construction of new vertical structures, design-build offers a flexible and adaptable framework that meets diverse project needs.
For our preconstruction and operations teams, the design-build method offers a more predictable and controlled project environment when compared to traditional delivery methods. With the design and construction teams working in tandem, the overall project timeline is accelerated. The continuous feedback loop between the design and construction teams promotes a “think tank” environment built on meticulous coordination and mutual trust. From a project’s onset, the collaborative nature of this method inherently mitigates risks and ensures the project stays on track in terms of schedule and budget.
For the architect, this means greater input and influence over the project’s construction, allowing for innovative design solutions that might not be feasible in a more segmented approach. Combining the creative design phase with value engineering and constructability review has proven to save costs and lead times in the procurement of materials, reduce change orders and rework, and produce an overall pragmatic approach to the project execution process.
The most significant benefit of the design-build approach is the way it aligns with our focus on being client-centric. A key advantage of this method is single-point responsibility, which gives clients access to a concise line of communication with a cohesive team. Additionally, the integrated nature of the method minimizes the likelihood of errors and allows for a significantly quicker timeline, making it especially effective for projects that require a quick turnaround.
Project Executive Ryan Syring has wholeheartedly embraced the design-build method as a preferred project approach. Ryan has a number of design-build successes under his toolbelt, including the recent Frank Erwin Center Demolition at The University of Texas at Austin and the current Canyon Hall student housing project at Texas State University. “My experience with design-build has been extremely positive,” remarks Ryan. “This method has the potential to cut the preconstruction process in half – that saves us time, saves the architect effort and provides a huge benefit to the client by maximizing the budget and ramping up the speed of delivery. Overall, it’s a win-win for everyone.”
