Design-Build Remodeling: Comparing Costs vs. Traditional Methods

The five commonly understood phases are project planning, design, permitting and preconstruction, construction, and completion. In practice, phases can overlap as the design develops and project decisions are coordinated. Ortiz Mexia Projects, Inc. supports clients through design, building permit procurement, contractor guidance, construction administration, and completion toward a Certificate of Occupancy.

Design-build places design and construction guidance within a coordinated process, while traditional delivery commonly separates the designer, bidding process, and contractor relationships. A unified approach can simplify communication and help maintain design intent. Traditional methods may still suit owners who prefer separately selecting and managing architects and contractors. The best choice depends on project complexity, priorities, and desired involvement.

Design-build does not guarantee a lower project cost. Its potential value comes from earlier coordination among design, permitting, consultants, and contractors, which may help identify conflicts and clarify decisions before construction. Traditional methods can also be effective when carefully managed. A meaningful comparison should consider design fees, permitting, bidding, construction, revisions, and the owner’s time coordinating separate parties.

The practice provides full-service remodeling and renovation for single-family residences, including additions, alterations, interiors, historical preservation, cabinetry, and built-ins. It also supports new custom homes and residential buildings up to four units. Services may extend from architectural design and permitting through contractor coordination, construction administration, and project completion, depending on the project scope.

Yes. Building permit procurement and permitting guidance are part of the firm’s residential design services. The practice assists clients, consultants, and general contractors through the permitting process and coordinates permit-related work with the broader design and construction effort. Requirements vary by jurisdiction and project, so the permit strategy is developed around the property and proposed scope.

Yes. The firm provides historical preservation and remodeling services for single-family residences, particularly homes in Historical Preservation Overlay Zones. The design approach seeks to maintain architectural integrity while integrating modern sustainable systems and technologies. Existing conditions, applicable municipal requirements, and the character of the property are considered as the project is developed.

VR immersions allow clients and designers to experience proposed spaces at 1:1 scale or study three-dimensional models at another scale. This can make spatial relationships, circulation, proportions, and design decisions easier to understand before construction. Ortiz Mexia Projects, Inc. has used VR for client presentations and design work since 2020.

The company serves Los Angeles, California, and Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley. Service catalog information also identifies the City of Santa Monica, City of Beverly Hills, Aspen, Snowmass, Basalt, and Carbondale for relevant residential services. Projects are handled by appointment, with availability and scope discussed during an initial conversation.