One team. One contract. One shared vision for your success.
If you’ve ever started a commercial project and felt overwhelmed by all the moving parts, multiple contracts, delayed communication, and surprise costs, you’ve experienced the old-school way of building. Traditional methods separate design and construction, which can create confusion, finger-pointing, and wasted time.
At Hammers Construction, we take a different approach. Our design-build process brings every part of your project together under one roof, from concept and design to construction and completion. The result is a faster, smoother experience with better communication and greater control over cost and schedule.
Overview
In this article, we’ll cover:
- The difference between design-build and design-bid-build
- How the Hammers Construction design-build process works from start to finish
- Why design-building leads to better communication, faster timelines, and stronger outcomes
- What common myths still exist about the design-build model
- How our local ability gives Colorado businesses a clear advantage
What is Design-Build (and Why It’s Different)
Design-build is a project delivery method where one team handles both the design and construction phases under a single contract. That means you have one point of contact, one source of accountability, and one cohesive team working toward your vision.
Traditional design-bid-build separates those responsibilities. You hire an architect to design your project, then bid it out to contractors, hoping the numbers align. It’s a fragmented system that often leads to cost overruns, miscommunication, and delays.
Design-build eliminates that gap. Collaboration starts early and continues through every stage of the project. Architects, engineers, and builders work side by side to align design intent, budget, and constructability from day one.
The Hammers Construction Design-Build Process
For over 30 years, we’ve refined a design-build system that keeps projects efficient, transparent, and stress-free.
Here’s how our process works:
- Step 1: Discovery and Feasibility We start by understanding your goals, budget, and site conditions. Our team studies your vision, analyzes zoning and permitting needs, and develops an initial cost framework.
- Step 2: Design and Pre-Construction Our architects and estimators collaborate from the start. This early alignment prevents scope creep and surprises later. We also identify long-lead materials and lock in pricing where possible.
- Step 3: Permitting and Procurement With deep local experience in Colorado’s regulatory environment, we manage submittals, utility coordination, and procurement efficiently. This step helps prevent delays and keeps schedules predictable.
- Step 4: Construction and Communication Once construction begins, the same team that designed your project stays by your side. You get regular progress updates, schedule transparency, and real-time cost tracking. No surprises, no disconnect.
- Step 5: Project Closeout and Beyond We finish strong. From final inspections and warranty coordination to maintenance guidance, we make sure your facility performs long after we hand you the keys.
Why Design-Build Works Better for Colorado Businesses
Colorado’s construction market moves quickly. Between variable weather, permitting timelines, and material costs, every project benefits from speed and collaboration.
Because design and construction overlap in the design-build model, schedules move faster, budgets stay tighter, and communication stays clear. Our integrated team also brings local knowledge of building codes, zoning, and regional vendors, key advantages for any project along the Front Range.
Common Myths About Design-Build
Let’s clear up a few common misconceptions we hear:
- Myth 1: Design-build is only for large projects. Not true. It’s scalable and works for everything from small tenant improvements to complex ground-up developments.
- Myth 2: Owners lose control over design. Actually, you gain more control. Because the entire team collaborates early, your ideas are refined with real-time cost and constructability feedback.
- Myth 3: It’s more expensive. Design-build reduces costly change orders and schedule delays, often making it the most cost-effective approach in the long run. On average, clients save 30% by using the design build method.
- Myth 4: It limits creativity. Our design-build team includes designers, engineers, and trade experts who all collaborate to bring your vision to life, efficiently and creatively.
Conclusion
At Hammers Construction, design-build isn’t just a delivery method, it’s our philosophy. We believe that collaboration, communication, and accountability lead to better projects and happier clients.
If you’re planning a commercial project in Colorado, our design-build team is ready to help you bring your vision to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest benefit of design-build?
You get a single point of responsibility, which eliminates miscommunication and helps ensure your project is delivered on time and within budget.
Can I still choose design elements I care about?
Absolutely. Design-build enhances your involvement. You stay part of every design milestone with clear visuals, pricing, and options before decisions are made.
Is design-build faster than traditional construction?
Yes. Because design and construction phases overlap, design-build projects typically finish 30% faster on average.
Does design-build mean lower quality?
Not at all. In fact, collaboration across disciplines often leads to higher-quality outcomes because everyone is focused on performance, not just design aesthetics or cost.
What types of projects work best for design-build?
Commercial offices, retail centers, development projects, medical and dental clinics, and tenant improvements all benefit from this streamlined process.