Design-Build vs. Contractor

For a long time, the standard way to remodel your home was to hire an architect and contractor separately, all while crossing your fingers that things go smoothly and stay within budget. At COCOON, we offer a different, simpler path. Instead of juggling various teams, you can collaborate with us as your design-build remodeler who offers everything under one roof.

How do you know which path is right for you? Let’s explore the options so you can choose the route that best supports your needs, budget and the experience you want to have.

What Is a General Contractor for Remodels?

A general contractor is the “builder.” They only focus on the construction phase of a remodel, handling tasks like making sure the work is done according to the plan. General contractors are not involved with the design — that’s the architect’s job.

If you go the traditional way, you’ll hire an architect first to create blueprints for your renovation. Then, you’ll take those blueprints to separate general contractors for price estimates, or “bids” on the construction work. Finally, you’ll choose the contractor who meets your needs best. Homeowners typically pick the contractor with the lowest bid.

What Is a Design-Build Remodeler?

A design-builder is a remodeling company that handles both the creative vision and the construction. This means you work with one team with one shared goal: bring your vision to life within your budget.

At COCOON, we’re proud to be a design-build remodeler serving homeowners throughout the Philly suburbs. We offer a simple and personal 3-stage remodeling process that covers everything from design through construction. We’ll be your partner in making design decisions that you love and that are also aligned with your budget. Once the design details are squared away, we take care of everything else, including permitting and all the construction work.

General Contractor Pros and Cons

The main appeal of the traditional remodeling path is the perception of having more control and flexibility. With this option, you can take your architectural plans and “shop around” for the lowest contractor bid.

That said, the traditional route places you in the middle of different teams, and it’s often up to you to make sure things go smoothly. For example, when a design detail doesn’t translate to reality, the architect might blame the builder, and then the builder blames the architect. Who’s left mediating the dispute? In most cases it’s you, the homeowner. And who’s left paying for the design changes needed so the contractor can actually build the plan? Again, the homeowner. This disconnect is why low initial bids often turn into high costs once construction begins.

Design-Build Remodeler Pros and Cons

The main trade-off with a design-build approach is that you don’t get to shop around for different contractors or designers. You partner with one unified team from start to finish. This requires trusting the remodeler you choose to handle your entire vision — and that’s why it’s so important to pick a design-build company you really click with.

Now for the good stuff. Because your design and construction teams are under one roof, you don’t have the stress of playing the middleman. Your design-build team owns the whole process, so if there’s a problem with communication, they fix it — not you.

Another huge benefit is that you know how much your renovation costs before construction begins. At COCOON, we work with you to iron out all the design details before a hammer swings, preventing the budget surprises that are all too common with traditional renovations. Our design-build process ensures that the plan you fall in love with is the one we actually build.

Who Should Remodel My Home?

The real question is — what kind of renovation experience do you want to have? If you have plenty of free time and feel comfortable managing different teams and potential disputes, a general contractor might work.

But, if you want a simpler, more joy-filled experience where your main job is to make design decisions, a design-builder is the better choice.

Experience the Joy of Remodeling With COCOON

Ultimately, deciding between a general contractor and a design-build team comes down to how you want to feel during the process. When you choose a design-build company that prioritizes your needs, along with collaboration and clear communication, you get an experience that leaves you feeling excited and rejuvenated.

Ready for a more personal approach to renovating your home? We’re here to help! At COCOON, we bring together Architectural Designers, Interior Designers, and Project Managers to protect your peace of mind and bring your unique vision to life.

Contact us today to start a conversation and see if the design-build path is right for you!