You have done your research and decided that a design build is the best format for your project, but how do you decide which design builder to work with? Keep in mind that your design builder will effectively be your contractor and your designer. This means that you should have a fairly amicable relationship with your design builder, since they will be present for the entire duration of your project. This also means that you’ll need to ask the questions that pertain to both construction and design. Here are three major questions you need to have answered before you choose:
What Kind of Experience Do You Have?
Not every design builder is going to be familiar with your industry. Find one that has years of experience and an impressive portfolio to prove it. Flipping through past projects will help you determine if this design builder has the practical knowledge base that you need applied to your newest structure. Take notice if they have experience working with large businesses or municipalities. You can trust that if these large corporations or local governments were satisfied with their team, you will be as well!
How Do You Determine Total Project Costs and Timelines?
It’s likely that you have a pretty good idea of what you want your project to look like and how long you need it to take. Don’t be afraid to ask your prospective design builder how they price their projects and what strategies they use. How do they account for surprise expenses? What materials do they plan on using? How do they price out finishings that may not be determined in the initial bid?
Can You Provide Client and Vendor References?
After your potential design builder regales you with the stories of their success, it’s time to do some digging. Ask for references and do your part to check in on them. Because the contractor and the builder are from the same company, responsibility can’t be ignored. Find out from their past clients and vendors exactly how their own projects went. What went well? What went poorly? Were the cost and time estimates accurate? What surprises came up and how did the design builder handle them?
While this is in no way an exhaustive list of questions, they are a great place to start. If your project demands attention to detail and an excellent working relationship, contact the experts at ProDesign today. We would be happy to answer these and any other questions you may have!
