Design-Build vs. Traditional Construction: Which Is Right for Your Commercial Project?
When planning a commercial construction project in Texas, choosing the right delivery method can have a major impact on your project’s success. Two of the most common approaches are design-bid-build (often referred to as “traditional construction”) and design-build. While both methods can deliver excellent results, they offer different paths to the finished product. Let’s take a deeper look at how they work, what makes them unique, and how to decide which is right for your next commercial build.
In a traditional design-bid-build model, the owner first hires an architect or design team to create a full set of construction drawings and specifications. Once the design is complete, the project is put out for bid. General contractors submit proposals, and the owner selects a builder—typically based on price, experience, or a combination of both. From there, construction begins according to the plans provided. This process gives owners more control over the design since they work exclusively with the architect before the contractor is involved. However, it can create challenges if budget overruns or constructability issues surface once bidding or building starts. Adjustments at this stage may require expensive change orders, time-consuming redesigns, or even re-bidding.
By contrast, the design-build model offers a more integrated, collaborative process. The owner hires one entity—usually led by a general contractor—to manage both the design and construction. The contractor assembles a design team (including architects, engineers, and consultants) and works closely with them from day one. This single point of responsibility can streamline communication, reduce the potential for conflicts, and create opportunities for innovation. Because the design and construction teams collaborate early, budget alignment and constructability considerations are addressed throughout the process. The result is typically a shorter project timeline, fewer surprises, and a smoother delivery overall.
So, which method is right for your project? It depends on your priorities. Design-bid-build may appeal to owners who want to maintain more separation between the design and construction teams, or those who already have a completed design and simply need a contractor to build it. It can also make sense for highly specialized projects that require intensive design work before pricing.
Design-build, on the other hand, is ideal for owners seeking efficiency, cost control, and open collaboration. It’s particularly well-suited for projects with tight schedules, complex requirements, or evolving scopes. Because the design-build team works together from the start, they can identify cost-saving strategies, spot potential issues early, and deliver a cohesive solution.
At Texas Built Construction, we’ve successfully delivered commercial projects across North Texas using both methods. Our team is happy to sit down with you to evaluate your specific goals, timeline, and budget so you can choose the right approach for your next build. The right delivery method can make all the difference in achieving a project that meets your expectations—on time and on budget.
Email us today @ projects@txbuiltconstruction.com or call us @ (972) 219-0729.