Design-Build Construction in Massachusetts & Southern NH
One team and one contract, from the first budget conversation to the final punch list. Here is exactly how our design-build process runs.
- Based in
- Newton, NH
- Since
- 2007
- Contracts
- One, design + build
- Phases
- Design, then Build
- Your guides
- Coordinator, then PM
- Used on
- Homes, additions, renos
Design-build is a way of running a construction project in which one company handles both the design and the construction under a single contract. Norman Builders, based in Newton, NH, has built and remodeled homes since 2007 and runs its projects as a design-build contractor, working with designers and architects through two phases: Design, then Build.
How It Differs from Design-Bid-Build
In the traditional design-bid-build method, you hire a designer, finish the drawings, then send them out for contractors to bid on. Nobody pricing the job was in the room while it was designed. In design-build, you sign one contract that covers design and construction, and one team is responsible for every part of the project. The builder is involved while the plans are drawn, so the design and the budget are worked out together instead of being reconciled after the bids come in.
Phase One: Design
Our design phase is meant to be open and transparent, in four steps. First we define the budget: we talk through what you want to spend and develop an estimated project cost with as much detail as possible. Second is conceptual design, where you work with the designer on space planning and a conceptual floor plan. Once that is approved, design development refines it: the final building components and dimensions, the structural, mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, and the first product selections for doors, windows and roofing. A project coordinator guides you through development. Last come the final plans and construction documents, so building can start.
Phase Two: Build
An experienced project manager runs the build. They create the construction schedule, manage the timeline and the budget, and communicate with you regularly. As the project nears completion, we do walk-throughs together and write a final punch list, and the team works through every item on it so the finished project is defect-free.
What It Looks Like on Real Projects
On the lakeside cottage in Atkinson, NH, design decisions came from the waterfront site, from the porch to the exterior materials. On White Cedar Way in Newton, NH, the family wanted classic New England architecture that still felt bright and open. Renovations run the same way: on a whole-home renovation in North Andover, the result came from close collaboration between the homeowners, their designers and our team.
George C., who renovated a 120-year-old house in Newburyport, MA with us, described the outcome: "We ended up with exactly what our designer drew up, with some recommendations from Dale on how to make things work even better."
Is Design-Build Right for Your Project?
It suits projects where design and cost are tied together: a new custom home, a home addition or a whole-house renovation, where structural, mechanical and finish decisions all move the budget. It starts the same way every time, with an initial consultation about your budget, your needs and your time frame.
Six Steps, One Team
Four design steps, then the build. A project coordinator guides the design phase and a project manager runs the build.
- 1
Define the Budget
An estimated project cost, with as much detail as possible.
- 2
Conceptual Design
Space planning and a conceptual floor plan with the designer.
- 3
Design Development
Structure, systems, dimensions and first product selections.
- 4
Final Plans
Construction documents so the build can start.
- 5
Project Management
A project manager runs the schedule and budget and keeps you updated.
- 6
Walk-Throughs
A final punch list, worked through until the project is done right.
Two Custom Homes in Southern NH
What Homeowners Say About the Process
Ryan was upfront about costs and responsibilities of all parties.
... Ryan's willingness to consider alternative options as well as the fair and reasonable estimate.
Design-Build Questions
What is design-build construction?
A project delivery method where one company handles both design and construction under a single contract, so one team is responsible for the whole project from the budget and drawings through the final walkthrough.
How is design-build different from design-bid-build?
In design-bid-build, the design is finished first and contractors bid on it afterward. In design-build, the builder is part of the design phase, so the plans and the budget are developed together and you deal with one team.
What are the steps in your design-build process?
Two phases. Design: define the budget, conceptual design, design development and final plans. Build: project management with a construction schedule and regular updates, then walk-throughs and a final punch list.
Who designs the project?
We collaborate with designers and architects to turn your ideas into construction drawings, and a project coordinator guides you through design development.
What kinds of projects do you run design-build?
Custom homes, home additions and whole-house renovations, where design and construction decisions are closely tied to the budget.
How do we start?
Request an estimate below or call (978) 833-7337. Every project starts with an initial consultation about your budget, your needs and your time frame.
Start with a Budget Conversation
Tell us what you want to build or change, and we will walk you through how the design phase would work for it.
Let's Talk About Your Project
Tell us what you are planning, your budget and your time frame, and we will follow up to set up a consultation.
- (978) 833-7337Call the office
- 63 Peaslee Crossing, Newton, NH 03858Serving the Merrimack Valley, North Shore, Seacoast & Southern NH
- Mon to Fri, 8 AM to 5 PMOffice hours