Continuity of design
The people developing the design remain connected to its execution. Questions about materials, details, and construction are resolved with the original intent in view.
Savoie Studios / Architect-Led Design-Build
First sketch.
Final detail.
One connected team.
The architect who shapes the vision helps lead its execution. Design, construction, budget, and schedule stay in the same conversation.
Design leadership, from the first idea through construction.
Design-build brings design and construction together under one contract. In architect-led design-build, the architect leads that integrated team, connecting the original vision to the decisions made in the field. For the owner, design, cost, constructability, and schedule are considered together.
At Savoie Studios, the architect who conceives your project stays involved through every phase. Our approach brings architectural judgment and construction expertise to the same table, with a clear point of responsibility for carrying the work forward.
The right approach for the right project.
We advocate for architect-led design-build where it serves the client. We also recognize that no single delivery method fits every project. Early analysis of your goals, budget, schedule, and project criteria determines the path we recommend.
Why architect-led matters.
Single accountability
One design-build agreement brings design and construction responsibilities together. The owner has a coordinated team and a clear point of contact.
Faster decisions
Direct communication between the architect and construction team helps resolve questions promptly, with design, budget, and schedule implications considered together.
Buildability from the start
Construction knowledge informs the early design. We test how a solution can be built as we explore what it can become.
For background on the delivery method, see DBIA’s explanation of design-build.
How we work
From first sketch to final detail. One team, every step.
The scope of each engagement establishes the services, deliverables, and responsibilities for your project. Our integrated process follows six connected phases.
01 / Listen
Discovery & Programming
Every project begins with listening. We explore your vision, your site, your budget, and how you live or work. We ask about light, the sequence of spaces, and what you want to feel when you walk through the door.
Deliverables
- Project brief
- Site analysis
- Preliminary budget range
- Project schedule
02 / Explore
Schematic Design
We translate the brief into architecture. We explore how the building sits on its site, how spaces relate, and how light enters the plan. Multiple concepts give you tangible alternatives and help us identify the direction that best serves your vision.
Deliverables
- Concept diagrams
- Floor plan options
- Exterior massing studies
- Preliminary material palette
03 / Resolve
Design Development
The chosen concept takes shape in detail. Rooms, thresholds, materials, and building systems are developed and coordinated. An updated cost estimate helps keep the design connected to your resources.
Deliverables
- Detailed floor plans and sections
- Exterior elevations
- Material and finish selections
- Updated cost estimate
04 / Document
Construction Documents
We prepare the drawings and specifications needed for permitting and construction. Assemblies, connections, and dimensions are coordinated so the team has a clear basis for building the approved design.
Deliverables
- Full permit drawing set
- Specifications
- Permit submission
- Final construction budget
05 / Build
Construction
Our integrated construction team carries the project forward with direct architectural involvement. Weekly site meetings, timely problem-solving, and coordinated decisions keep the work connected to the design and the owner’s priorities.
Deliverables
- Weekly progress reports
- Site observation
- Subcontractor coordination
- Quality control
06 / Complete
Completion & Handover
A final walkthrough, punch list, and organized project record support a thoughtful handover. We bring together drawings, specifications, warranties, and maintenance guidance, and remain available for questions after move-in.
Deliverables
- Final walkthrough
- Punch list completion
- As-built drawings
- Warranty documentation
What clients ask before they reach out.
What is architect-led design-build, and how is it different from hiring an architect and contractor separately?
Architect-led design-build places design and construction within one coordinated delivery team, led by the architect, under a single design-build agreement. Hiring an architect and contractor separately creates separate agreements and a different division of responsibilities. We help you evaluate which arrangement fits your project.
How much does a project with Savoie Studios typically cost?
Cost depends on the site, size, existing conditions, quality expectations, and scope of work. We establish a preliminary budget range during discovery and refine it as the design develops. An initial conversation helps identify the information needed for a useful estimate.
How long does a typical project take from first conversation to move-in?
Timing depends on the scope, approvals, procurement, material lead times, and construction conditions. We develop a project-specific schedule with you and identify the decisions and dependencies that could affect it.
Do you work on renovations and additions, or only new construction?
We work with clients considering renovations, additions, new buildings, and adaptive reuse. Early studies help test the opportunities and constraints of the property before a direction is chosen.
How many projects do you take on at once?
We discuss availability and the attention your project requires before accepting an engagement. The size and phase of each project determine how we assemble the team and plan our commitments.
What does the initial consultation involve, and is there a fee?
We begin with your goals, the property or facility, your budget, timing, and the decisions ahead. We agree on the scope and any fee before undertaking a consultation, study, or design assignment.
Start a conversation
Your next project.
A clearer starting point.
Bring the idea, the space that is not working, or the decision you need to make. Let’s explore a design direction and the support that fits your project.
Discuss a project
Schematic design · Owner advisory & design criteria · Architect-led design-build