Design-build
Definition: A project delivery method in which a single entity provides both design and construction services under one contract, creating a single point of responsibility and accountability. In renovation, design-build is especially relevant because it consolidates the risk of concealed conditions, uses flexible pricing models (GMP with discovery contingencies), and compresses schedules through overlapping design and construction phases. Industry data indicates design-build projects generally experience lower cost growth, fewer change orders, and higher owner satisfaction compared to traditional design-bid-build. The alternative is the traditional sequential model where the owner contracts separately with a designer and then a contractor.