Design-Build vs. Traditional Construction: Which Is Right for You?

When starting a construction project, one of the most important decisions you’ll make isn’t about materials or finishes, it’s about how the project is structured from start to finish. Choosing the right project delivery method can affect everything from your timeline and budget to communication and final results. The two most common methods are Design-Build and Design-Bid-Build (often referred to as “traditional”).

So how do you know which is right for your goals, timeline, and budget? Let’s break it down.

What Is Design-Build?

Design-build is a streamlined, integrated approach to construction where a single entity handles both the design and construction phases under one contract. Rather than coordinating between separate architects, engineers, and contractors, you work with one team that manages the entire process.

Key Benefits:

• Faster Timelines: With design and construction happening simultaneously or overlapping, projects typically move more quickly.

• Simplified Communication: One point of contact means fewer surprises, less finger-pointing, and more accountability.

• Cost Control: With a unified team, costs are considered early and managed collaboratively throughout the project.

When It Works Best:

• You want a more collaborative, transparent process.

• You’re looking for a turnkey solution with fewer moving parts.

• Speed and budget are top priorities.

What Is Traditional (Design-Bid-Build)?

In the traditional model, you first hire a design team to complete full architectural plans. Once finalized, those plans are sent out for contractors to submit bids. After evaluating the bids, you hire a builder, often with little to no involvement during the design phase.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Greater upfront design freedom.

• Competitive bidding can potentially lower construction costs.

Cons:

• Longer timelines due to the sequential nature of the process.

• Communication breakdowns between design and construction teams.

• Higher likelihood of unexpected costs or change orders due to a lack of construction input during design.

When It Works Best:

• You have in-house expertise to manage separate contracts.

• Regulatory requirements demand strict oversight.

• The project is publicly funded and requires a competitive bidding process.

So… Which One Is Right for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your decision should reflect your project goals, comfort with risk, and how involved you want to be.

• If you prefer efficiency, collaboration, and a single point of accountability, design-build may be the better route.

• If your project requires detailed design control or must go through a public bidding process, traditional construction might suit you better.

How Levy Builders Approaches It

At Levy Builders, we specialize in the design-build model because we’ve seen firsthand how it leads to better outcomes for our clients. Our team includes trusted architects, engineers, and subcontractors who work together from day one to align vision, budget, and execution.

This cohesive structure allows us to:

• Identify cost-saving opportunities early.

• Resolve issues before they impact construction.

• Keep timelines realistic and transparent.

• Deliver a smoother, more predictable project experience.

Let’s Talk About Your Project

Still weighing your options? We’re happy to walk you through both paths and help you make the decision that works best for your goals. Whether you’re planning a renovation, a commercial build-out, or a ground-up development, Levy Builders is here to build smarter with you.

Curious if design-build is the right fit? Let’s talk.