For over thirty years I have practiced as a design-builder utilizing both my architect and general contractor licenses.
I have found each project has its own unique challenges that require patience, understanding, and firm commitment to balancing the design aesthetic with the reality of building excellence.
Sometimes my firm is brought in as the general contractor to assist a less experienced architect.
And other times, as the lead architect, we present practical assembly solutions to the general contractor.
More often now, we establish a generous base square footage budget and expedite the entire process as design-builders.
I would like to encourage all architects to take the time to reach out to their general contractors to better understand the budgeting, cash flow, bank draw documentation, material lead times, project scheduling strategies, subcontractor selection criteria, change order prevention, insurance coverage costs, weather protection costs, and so on.
Try to remember we are all on the same side.
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Michael J Kent AIA
MICHAEL J. KENT, INC.
Santa Monica CA
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Original Message:
Sent: 06-24-2019 21:26
From: Bruce Cousins
Subject: Design Build -IPD
In a design-build or IPD projects the design manager serves in a pivotal position
between the owner, designers, and builders. The design manager directs the actions of
design professionals (architects, engineers, interior designers, landscape architects,
and specialty consultants) in the conceptualization and development of a design.
Most design-build projects are led by builders. Many design managers have substantial
construction-phase skills, but limited design-phase experience.
Has anyone on this forum felt that they have been marginalized while participating in contractor led IPD or Design/Build projects?
I am writing about the potential roadblocks to successful Design Build Project Delivery and would like to hear your experiences good & bad with collaborative design processes
- How to overcome negative feelings and politics.
- Processes that successfully support tilt the scale to Designers culture but also meet contractors focus on budget and schedule controls.
- What are your "conditions of satisfaction" -
Please reply - see my blog posts at Lean Construction Blog
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Bruce Cousins AIA
Santa Fe NM
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