Design-Build is a construction delivery method that provides owners with a single point of contact for both the design and construction phases of a project. One entity holds single-source responsibility and contractual risk for every aspect of a build — from estimation, assessments and pre-construction to architecture, schematics, engineering, subcontracting, construction and post-construction. This entity, the Design-Builder, manages all contracts with companies, such as subcontractors, permits, designers, equipment vendors and materials suppliers.

Unlike in other construction methods, owners contract only with the Design-Builder. In the two other primary construction methods used today — construction management and general contracting (also known as design-bid-build) — owners have multiple contracts with different entities for architectural design and construction. Since Design-Build brings together all elements of a project, designers work in coordination with other members of the project team. In other methods, the design is completed separately, sometimes resulting in unforeseen costs and delays during the construction process. Therefore, Design-Build allows your project team to provide insights into the costs and constructability of different designs well in advance. The end result is a sound and timeless design, a defined budget, and a schedule streamlined. It ensures business goals are met. Over the past 15 years, use of design-build has greatly accelerated in Canada, making this delivery method one of the most significant trends in design and construction today.