What is the Difference Between Architect Firm and Design Build?

Designing a home and want to know the difference? You’re almost there! Read here to learn more about the difference between architect firm and design build.

Architect firms and design build firms have a lot of similarities, but they also have some key differences. Both of these design service firms have to work within strict timeframes, budgets, and requirements. They have to work within tight spaces, minimize costs, and meet with many different stakeholders. However, the unique nature of an architect firm and the special requirements of a design build firm can lead to different solutions. Read on to learn more about the main differences between architect firms and design build firms.

What is the Difference Between Architect Firm and Design-Build?

What are Architect Firms?

Architects survey the landscape, conduct research, and develop a design solution that addresses a client’s unique needs. These professionals don’t just draw blueprints and lay out plans, though. They also consider all the various components of a project, from the structural elements to the interior design elements. An architect’s skills are many, and one of the most important is being able to collaborate with a team of specialists, whether that’s with contractors, engineers, interior designers, or others. Architects often draw on their knowledge of architecture and design to develop innovative ideas for commercial buildings. 

These professionals can apply their knowledge of form and space to create a building that can adapt to changes or additions. Architects are often charged with making design decisions for a project, whether it’s for an office building or public space. These professionals work with clients to understand their goals and ideas for the project, and then work with other architects to create a design that can be brought to life.

What are Design Build Firms?

While architects are in charge of conceptualizing a project and creating a design that informs its construction, the builders carry out the vision. These professionals have years of experience and knowledge of construction and engineering, and they use that to create a detailed drawing of the project. If you’re looking for a way to add more detail to your vision without adding another expense, you can hire a design build firm to make a detailed set of drawings. Design build firms are often involved in projects that combine the creation of architecture with construction. If you want to remodel your home with an alternate floor plan or addition, a design build firm is the best option.

Key Difference Between Architect Firm and Design Build Firm

Below are the key difference between architect firm and design build firm.

Scope 

One of the key differences between architect firms and design build firms is the breadth of work. An architect will work on large commercial projects, whereas a design build firm is more likely to work on home projects. 

Client Base 

An architect will often work with a specific client for a long period of time, whereas a design build firm can work on many different home projects at once. 

Final Words

If you’re looking for a design build contractor, consider hiring a design build firm—this can add more detail to your design and will save you on cost. However, keep in mind that not all design build firms are built the same, so choose carefully. Of course, the best way to find the right design build firm for your project is to speak with contractors about the work that you have in mind.

Gordon Reese Can Help

We hope this article helped satisfy your search for the difference between architect firm and design build firm. If you are interested in starting the first steps toward a design build, call us today. We are happy to answer any further questions you might have.