What Design and Build Means for Your London Project

Design and build is a way of delivering a project where one company is responsible for both the design and the construction. Instead of appointing an architect and then tendering the drawings to a separate contractor, you work with a single team from the start.

How it differs from the traditional route

In a traditional contract, the design is completed first and then priced by contractors. In design and build, the contractor is involved while the design is still developing. That early involvement means buildability, programme and cost can be considered as the scheme takes shape.

Benefits for the client

• One point of responsibility for design and construction

• Cost and programme advice from the earliest stage

• Fewer gaps between design intent and what is built on site

• A simpler line of communication throughout the project

Points to agree before you start

• A clear written brief covering what you need, the quality you expect and your budget

• How design changes will be handled and priced once work begins

• Which design milestones you want to review and approve

• What is included in the price, and which items are provisional

• How the programme, payments and handover will be managed

Who it suits

Design and build works for homeowners planning extensions, loft conversions or refurbishments, as well as commercial clients with fixed opening dates or lease deadlines. It is particularly useful where several disciplines need to be coordinated and you would rather deal with one team.

Tota Design & Build offers building design alongside construction, so projects can move from concept to completion without handing over between companies.

Thinking about a project in London? Get in touch with Tota Design & Build to talk it through.