Delivery model guide
Builder or architect first? Start with the delivery model.
Compare design-build and architect-led custom home delivery models, responsibilities and trade-offs.
Direct answer
You can hire an architect first, a builder first, or select an integrated design-build team. The best choice depends on design ambition, desired cost feedback, how you want contracts structured and who you want coordinating the project.
Three common paths
Each can succeed when roles and decisions are explicit.
- Architect-led design-bid-build
- Builder-led with independent designer
- Integrated design-build
Ask who owns coordination
Clarify responsibility for consultants, cost planning, permits, interiors, constructability, procurement and construction-phase decisions.
Common questions
Clear answers for early decisions.
Does design-build limit design quality?
Not inherently. Quality depends on the people, brief, process and accountability. Review the design team and portfolio, not just the contract label.
Continue planning
