Choosing the right project delivery method can make or break your construction experience. The design build process has become increasingly popular in the Philippines for homeowners and businesses seeking a streamlined, efficient approach to construction. But what exactly is “design build”, and how does it work?
This comprehensive guide walks you through every stage of the design build process, helping you understand why this method delivers better results with fewer headaches. Whether you’re planning a commercial building, hotel, or custom home in the Philippines, this information will help you choose the right construction approach.
What Is Design Build?
Design build is a project delivery method where a single company handles both the architectural design and construction of your project. Unlike the traditional approach—where you hire an architect separately from your general contractor—design build creates one point of responsibility from concept to completion. In the Philippines, more property owners are choosing design and build companies for their turnkey construction needs.
This integrated approach eliminates the communication gaps, finger-pointing, and coordination challenges that often plague construction projects. Your design build partner becomes your single point of contact, accountable for both the creative vision and its physical execution.
Design Build vs. Traditional Method: Key Differences
| Aspect | Design Build | Traditional Method |
| Contracts | Single contract | Multiple contracts |
| Communication | Direct and streamlined | Requires coordination |
| Timeline | Typically faster | Often longer |
| Cost control | Better budget management | More variables |
| Accountability | Single point of responsibility | Divided responsibility |
The Design Build Process: Step by Step
Phase 1 – Initial Consultation and Programming
Every successful project begins with understanding your needs. During this phase, your design build team conducts detailed discussions about your vision, requirements, budget, and timeline.
Key activities include:
- Site visit and assessment
- Understanding functional requirements
- Establishing project goals and priorities
- Preliminary budget discussion
- Timeline expectations
This foundation ensures that every subsequent decision aligns with your objectives.
Phase 2 – Conceptual Design
With your requirements clearly defined, the design team creates initial concepts for your project. This phase transforms your ideas into visual representations.
Deliverables typically include:
- Preliminary floor plans and layouts
- 3D renderings or perspectives
- Space planning solutions
- Initial material and finish suggestions
You’ll have opportunities to provide feedback and request revisions until the concept matches your vision.
Phase 3 – Design Development and Cost Estimation
Once you approve the concept, the team develops detailed designs while simultaneously preparing accurate cost estimates. This parallel process is a key advantage of design build—designers and builders collaborate early to ensure your design is both beautiful and buildable within budget.
This phase includes:
- Detailed architectural drawings
- Structural engineering design
- MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) design
- Comprehensive cost breakdown
- Value engineering recommendations
If costs exceed your budget, the team can suggest alternatives without starting over with a separate contractor.
Phase 4 – Construction Documentation
Before construction begins, the team prepares complete working drawings and specifications required for permits and actual building work.
Documentation includes:
- Final architectural plans
- Structural plans and details
- Electrical and plumbing layouts
- Material specifications
- Construction schedules
These documents guide every aspect of construction and ensure quality control throughout the project.
Phase 5 – Permit Processing
Your design build company handles all permit applications and government requirements. This includes building permits, electrical permits, sanitary permits, and other necessary approvals required in the Philippines. Having experts manage this process saves you time and ensures compliance with local building codes—whether you’re building in Metro Manila, La Union, or other provinces.
Phase 6 – Construction
With permits secured, construction begins. Your design build contractor manages all aspects of the building process through professional construction management, including:
- Site preparation and mobilization
- Contractor coordination
- Material procurement
- Quality control inspections
- Progress monitoring and reporting
- Schedule management
You’ll receive regular updates and have direct access to your project manager for questions or concerns.
Phase 7 – Project Completion and Turnover
The final phase ensures your project meets all quality standards before handover.
Activities include:
- Final inspections and punch list completion
- Testing of all systems
- Cleaning and site restoration
- Documentation handover (as-built drawings, warranties, manuals)
- Orientation on building systems and maintenance
Benefits of Choosing Design Build
Faster Project Delivery
Design and construction phases can overlap, reducing overall project duration by 20% to 30% compared to traditional methods.
Cost Savings and Control
Early collaboration between designers and builders identifies cost-effective solutions before expensive changes become necessary. You receive accurate budgets earlier in the process.
Single Point of Accountability
No more disputes between architects and contractors. One team takes responsibility for delivering your project successfully.
H3: Better Communication
Streamlined communication reduces misunderstandings, errors, and delays that arise when multiple parties must coordinate independently.
Is Design Build Right for Your Project?
Design build works exceptionally well for:
- Commercial construction and office fit outs
- Hotel construction and hospitality projects
- Residential construction and home renovations
- Industrial building construction and warehouse facilities
- Projects with fixed budgets or tight timelines
If you value efficiency, clear communication, and having a trusted partner guide you through the entire construction journey, design build is the ideal choice.
Experience the Design Build Advantage with SZETO
SZETO Design & Construction is a trusted design and build company based in San Fernando, La Union, serving clients throughout the Philippines. Since 2015, SZETO has delivered successful commercial, hospitality, and residential projects using the integrated design build approach.
From initial consultation to project turnover, SZETO provides complete architectural design, engineering services, and construction management under one roof—giving you a true one-stop shop construction solution.Ready to start your project? Contact SZETO Design & Construction for a free consultation and discover how design build can save you time and money.