The Smithson Difference
A true design-build firm includes a project delivery method that provides owners with a single point of contact for both the design and construction phases of a project. One group holds single-source responsibility and contractual risk for every aspect of the project — from estimation, assessments and pre-construction to architecture, schematics, engineering, subcontracting, construction and post-construction. We manage all contracts with companies, including subcontractors, equipment vendors and materials providers.
What does this mean to the owner/developer?
Unlike the traditional model for project delivery, the owner/developer manages only one contract with a single point of responsibility. The Architect, General Contractor, Engineer, and Project Manager are all on the same team. They offer unified, creative solutions to the owner with no opportunity to make excuses or defer responsibility to another firm. As the design-build firm, Smithson manages every professional team member and vendor.
This in-house, total design-build process has been the key to Smithson’s success for more than 40 years. There’s never a question about how one team is going to work with another team of professionals and fulfill the project owner’s needs.
With the Smithson approach, all phases work simultaneously. Our team members collaborate throughout the process to provide a rapid and efficient delivery.
The Smithson Design-Build process
has five main phases
Selecting a Design-Build firm
Your new firm should have a history of designing and building similar projects. They should be versatile, understand exactly what it will cost, and have the financial resources to get the job done efficiently.
Pre-construction Assessments
Smithson has decades of experience guiding our clients to exactly what they need. We delve into your goals for how the space will be utilized, down to the number of units to be stored or displayed.
Architectural Planning & Design
Design for design’s sake is not how we work. Designing a beautiful new building must fit the business that will be conducted in the new space and logistically fit the land perfectly.
Construction
You’ve spent valuable resources to create a stellar design. Our project managers execute your new project with precision and manage every phase of construction, including all vendors and sub-contractors.
Post-construction
Standing behind what Smithson has designed and built is at the heart of our firm. Ensuring warranties are met, final details are completed, and clients’ expectations are exceeded help ensure a long-term relationship.
