Design-Build vs. Architecture Firm: Which is Best?

When building a home, choosing the design and layout is your first major hurdle. You’re likely debating the two most popular options: design-build vs design-bid-build. 

Design-Build Firms

A design-build firm is a popular choice for new homeowners. As the name entails, a design-build firm manages your entire project from the initial project planning all the way through construction. According to the Design-Build Institute of America, 40% of homeowners opt to work with a design-build firm on their projects. 

For many clients unfamiliar with the process of building your own home, the concept of an all-knowing, one-stop-shop is appealing. 

Architecture Firms

Architecture firms function differently than design-build firms. In a standard architecture-client relationship, homeowners work with a designer to draw up plans for their new home and transfer those plans to a general contractor for execution. This process is often referred to as design-bid-build. 

This route is more traditional, offering higher design quality and flexibility. Your architect works for you, not for your builder, with intentions of achieving the best design for you, within your budget. Once designs are complete, homeowners enter the bidding and negotiation stage, where they can examine differences in various builders’ processes, materials, and budgets.  Oftentimes, architecture firms have a trusted network of contractors and professionals recommended to their clients. 

Contrary to popular belief, this approach does not require the homeowner to assume the role of project manager and interior designer. Many firms offer design coordination and construction administration to ensure the design is executed properly. For example, northern Virginia architecture firm Lee Design Studio maintains contact with your builder throughout the duration of your build to resolve unexpected issues in the field, review orders for materials, and preserve the intent of the design.  

Which is best? 

If you’re cost-conscious and detail-oriented, opting for a traditional relationship with an architecture firm and contractor may be your best choice. 

With lower chances of being able to submit a competitive bid, design-build firms can result in higher costs overall and conflicting interests between the company and client may play a factor in your final design. 

If you’re looking for more information on architects in northern Virginia, please contact Lee Design Studio for a consultation. 

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