In addition to building custom communities, we also work with clients who have purchased their own property. While building a custom home is a complex process, at Pohlig Builders, our expertise assures you that your finished home will meet every expectation. We are available to assist you in all aspects of this process with our Design-Build-Plus program.

What is Design-Build-Plus?
Our "Design-Build-Plus" project approach describes a turn-key building process that allows an owner to collaborate with an organized team of professionals from the earliest planning stages to the completion of construction. This integrated program differs from the more linear, traditional "Design-Bid-Build" process, which typically involves working with the architect first, developing complete specifications, sending plans to multiple contractors for bidding and then ultimately selecting one. In our 35 years of building custom homes, experience has proven that this traditional design-build approach most frequently results in breaking the owner's budget, often by as much as 25%. In contrast, our more collaborative "Design-Build-Plus" approach allows design, estimating, permitting, and construction activities to be conducted concurrently, thus saving time and money for the owner. From the very beginning, the team is oriented to meeting the needs of its client and working through the design process to carefully balance project costs, attention to detail, and quality of construction. Since the group is assembled from the start of the project, communication channels are well established and the project is clearly and consistently defined through the ongoing input of all the team members.

How does the Design-Build-Plus method work?
Pre-Construction Phase - Conceptual Design and Budgeting
The program will begin with the development of the project team. Once the team is selected and engaged, the planning phase will identify all project requirements, including but not limited to style, budget, quality levels, and project timeframe. Upon completion of the schematics, guideline specifications will be written for the project. Utilizing these two main components, the project can be accurately estimated. This estimating process will result in a preliminary budget which can be compared to the owners' overall project intent. At the completion of the Pre-construction services, the entire team will have a clear, detailed understanding of the project scope and clear direction for moving into the construction phase.

Construction Phase - Final Plans, Specifications, Pricing and Construction
Once the schematic design, preliminary specifications, and general budgets have been approved, the team will move into the Construction phase of the project. This will include preparation of final construction drawings, final specifications, and final project estimate. All necessary documentation for submission to regulatory agencies will be accomplished at this time, so that permitting will not delay construction activities. As construction progresses, frequent updates to budgets and schedules will be provided. The entire construction process will continue to be managed with a team approach, including regular project meetings and inspections. This ensures that all team members are continually aware of the progress on the project , and that the expectations of the client and the design professionals are being met.

What are the benefits of Pohlig Builders' Design-Build-Plus method?
The "Design-Build-Plus" process utilizes the expertise of all parties from the onset of the project, leading to a more cohesive plan and the best value for the client.

As shown in this diagram, the benefits are in reduced costs, better up front planning, and more effective scheduling, resulting in increased quality and value for the Owners.

A project undertaken with the "Design-Build-Plus" system ensures effective team-building, detailed planning and management, cost effective product and trade selection, and value engineering at each phase of the project. Ultimately, this results in a home that is best suited for the owners' needs, a process that exceeds their expectations, and a project that is completed on time and on budget.

For more details on our custom home programs or to talk about your project needs, please contact us at 610-647-4700.