Design-and-build is a streamlined approach to construction. One company handles design and construction. You have one contract. One point of contact. One team is responsible for everything. Understanding how design and build work helps you see whether this approach suits your project. Design-and-build eliminates coordination between separate architects and builders. It simplifies the process. It often delivers projects faster and more efficiently than traditional approaches. For London homeowners, this integrated approach offers significant advantages.
What a Design and Build Company Does
A design and build company designs and builds your project. The same team designs and executes the construction. There’s no separation between designer and builder.
Traditional approaches separate design from construction. An architect designs. A contractor builds. You coordinate between them. You manage two separate contracts. Communication happens indirectly sometimes. Responsibility is split.
Design and build combine these roles. One company handles everything. They design with their own construction expertise in mind. They know what they can build efficiently. They design accordingly.
This integration creates benefits. Design considers construction realities from the start. Cost estimates are accurate because the builder is involved in dthe esign. Problems get solved collaboratively during design rather than during construction.
The design and build company takes responsibility for the complete project. They manage quality. They manage the budget. They manage the timeline. You’re not juggling multiple contractors.
They handle Planning Permission if needed. They prepare applications. They manage the approval process. They navigate Building Regulations. They coordinate inspections. They provide final certification.
Benefits of Design and Build for London Homes
Design and build offers significant advantages over traditional approaches.
Streamlined communication is a major benefit. You have one point of contact. One team. One chain of command. Questions get answered quickly. Decisions get made efficiently. You’re not caught between architect and builder arguing about responsibility.
Cost certainty is another major benefit. The design and build company provides a fixed price. You know what you’re paying. There are no surprise bills from architects billing separately or contractors billing extras. Financial planning is straightforward.
Timeline certainty matters too. Design and build companies commit to completion dates. They manage the whole process. They work efficiently because they’re responsible for both design and construction. Projects typically complete on schedule.
Quality is managed throughout. The same company designing is responsible for building quality. They design to their own standards. They ensure execution matches design. Quality control happens consistently.
Efficiency is built in. Designers and builders work together. Design decisions consider buildability. Materials are specified for buildability and cost. The process is efficient because one team manages everything.
Risk is reduced. One company takes responsibility for the complete project. If something goes wrong, one company fixes it. You’re not caught between contractor and architect arguing about who’s responsible.
Flexibility is easier to manage. If you want changes, one company implements them. Communication happens internally. Decisions get made quickly. Changes are managed professionally.
Integration with your existing architect is possible. Some design-and-build companies work with external architects. You maintain your design relationship while benefiting from integrated construction.
Planning, Design, and Construction Under One Team
The process starts with initial consultation. You meet with the design-and-build company. You discuss your vision. You explore possibilities. They assess your property.
Then comes concept design. The company creates initial design concepts. You review options. You provide feedback. Designs evolve based on your input.
Detailed design follows. Once you approve a concept, detailed designs are created. These show exactly what will be built. Materials are specified. Costs are estimated accurately.
Planning permission is prepared and submitted if needed. The company handles applications. They manage the approval process. They handle revisions if needed.
Building Regulations approval comes next. Detailed technical drawings are submitted. Building Control reviews and approves before construction starts.
Construction then proceeds. The design and build company builds in accordance with approved plans. They manage the construction process. They solve problems as they arise. Regular inspections ensure quality.
Site supervision happens throughout. Someone ensures work matches design. Issues get addressed immediately. Quality is maintained.
Final completion involves inspections and certifications. Building Control provides final approval. The company coordinates this process.
Costs, Timelines, and Risk Management
Costs are typically provided as fixed prices or guaranteed maximum prices. You know what you’re paying. No surprises.
For single storey extensions in London, design and build costs typically run 60000 to 100000 for a 30 square meter extension. Costs vary by complexity and finishes.
Outside London, costs are lower. Similar extensions might cost 45000 to 75000.
Timelines are typically guaranteed. Design and build projects typically take 6 to 9 months total. This includes design, planning, and construction.
Single storey extensions might take 4 to 6 months if Permitted Development applies.
Double storey extensions might take 8 to 12 months if Planning Permission is needed.
Risk management is built in. One company manages all risks. Insurance covers the complete project. Guarantees protect you. Warranties apply to workmanship and materials.
Financial risk is reduced. Fixed pricing means no budget surprises. Contingency is included in pricing. You’re protected.
Schedule risk is reduced. One company manages the timeline. Delays are managed professionally. You’re protected.
Quality risk is reduced. One company is responsible for quality. Professional standards maintained. You’re protected.
Why Clients Choose Extension Architecture as Their Design and Build Partner
Extension Architecture offers complete design and build services. They handle everything from initial consultation through final completion.
They assess properties thoroughly. They understand what’s possible. They design realistic solutions that enhance homes.
They provide transparent pricing. You know the costs upfront. No surprise bills. No hidden charges.
They manage timelines professionally. Projects are completed on schedule. Delays are managed professionally.
They ensure quality throughout. Regular inspections. Professional standards applied. Quality is maintained.
They communicate clearly. You understand progress. You’re involved in decisions. There are no surprises.
They take responsibility for everything. If something goes wrong, they fix it. You’re not caught between separate contractors.
For London homeowners wanting extensions or renovations, Extension Architecture provides complete solutions. One company. One contract. One team is responsible for everything from design through completion.
Get started with a consultation. Discuss your project. Understand possibilities. Choose a design and build approach for streamlined, efficient project delivery that transforms your London home.
