BEST OF BOTH WORLDS?
Getting the right architect on your project is probably the most important decision you will make; not only will they help you design your dream home, they can guide you through the maze of decisions you’ll face throughout planning and construction phases of the project.
It’s important to find an architect who truly understands your requirements and aspirations to turn them into your dream home. This can be difficult with design and build companies as you will be limited to their in-house design team.
However, it is possible to hire your own architect independently initially, and then use a design and build company for the detailed design and construction phase. The design and build company can take the outline design and develop the construction details, taking ownership of the proposals for the remainder of the project. With this route you get a compromise of having the best design for your requirements, but with the time and cost certainty of a design and build company.