Silver Oak Remodel Blog | Remodeling Advice in North Atlanta

Inside the Design-Build Difference: Why Atlanta Families Are Choosing a One-Stop Remodel Partner

Written by Josh Katterheinrich | Jul. 14, 2025

If this isn't your first rodeo and you've remodeled your home before, you know that things can quickly spiral out of your control, especially if you've used multiple contractors, which has resulted in mismatched timelines and poor communication. If it's your first time renovating your home, or you want to do it right the second time around, consider avoiding these pitfalls by hiring a design-build firm. 

In our latest blog, our team at Silver Oak Remodel has discussed exactly why the design-build difference is leading families to choose design-build renovation over traditional custom remodeling services. If you want to learn everything from what makes design-build different to the advantages of design-build renovation, get your notepad ready and your phone in hand because you'll want to give us a ring to discuss your options. 

What Is Design-Build? The Difference Explained

If you're considering design-build, you've likely asked yourself – or Google – 'What is design-build in construction?' The conclusion you might have come to may still be confusing, which is why we want to clear up the confusion. 

To put it simply, the design-build process is a streamlined approach to remodeling and building. When you choose design-build over other remodeling options, you're getting a single contract with a single team that is typically a one-stop remodeling partner. What we mean by this is that your renovation with a design-build firm will combine design and construction under one roof. 

Now, that might not seem like a big deal, but we promise it is. After all, choosing design-build means fewer handoffs, less confusion, and one point of contact from the very beginning to the very end. It ultimately leads to less time spent running after different contractors to find out where you stand with your project and a lower chance of things going wrong. Enough said, right? 

How Is Design-Build Different From Traditional Remodeling?

Now that you understand what design-build is, how does it differ from traditional remodeling? We don't want to get too into the weeds when explaining the differences, so we'll keep it simple. When it comes to a design-build vs a general contractor, these are the key differences:

  • Design: With traditional remodeling, you need to hire a designer or architect to create your reno plans. When you hire a design-build firm, your team will come with one or both of these professionals who can help you with your vision. 
  • Bidding: To hire a traditional remodeler, you typically need to obtain bids from contractors and then choose the one with the lowest bid or the most trusted reputation. With a design-build firm, you don't need to get bids – unless you want to – because the service will include everything in-house. 
  • Responsibility: When you hire traditional contractors, it can become murky who is responsible for what, leaving your project open to speculation and confusion when problems arise. Design-build, on the other hand, limits the likelihood of this happening because the buck usually stops with the company. There is no one else to blame. 
  • Teamwork: With traditional remodeling, not everyone works in tandem, nor is everyone necessarily working toward the same goal. As you can imagine, this can create pretty serious issues. Whereas, if you choose a design-build firm for your remodel, you have a team that constantly communicates and collaborates, leading to fewer issues. 

It's clear to see why design-build firms are becoming the more popular choice for Atlanta homeowners who want to remodel their much-loved homes. 

Why Choose Design-Build: Why Atlanta Homeowners Are Choosing Design-Build Firms?

Besides having one point of contact and knowing who to blame – hopefully no one – there are a few other advantages associated with working with a design-build firm. So, if you're considering hiring one of the best design-build companies like Silver Oak Remodel, you might want to have a look at the benefits you could enjoy below: 

Realistic Budgets From The Start

One of the most significant drawbacks of working with traditional remodelers is that budgeting can be a nightmare. Not only do you have to manage your spending across different professionals, but there's also the risk that one or more of them may exceed the budget you have in place. 

When you work with a design-build firm, this is less of a worry. A design-build firm like Silver Oak Remodel, which we are, understands your need for a budget and ensures that the design and construction remain within it. If the project goes over budget, you'll be immediately informed so that plans can be adjusted and you aren't left in the lurch. 

Better Time Management

Traditional remodeling firms complete jobs at a slower pace. It may not seem like it, but it's true. We're not saying all of them are slower with their timelines, but when compared to design-build, there's sometimes no comparison.

This is because design-build companies experience fewer delays with the entire team under one roof. There is often no need for outsourcing and no need to rebid for work, so the project is finished far sooner. Plus, design-build firms, just generally, depending on the company, tend to manage their time better. 

Local Knowledge and Customization

We hate to be the ones to break it to you, but traditional firms are not always clued up on local codes, permitting processes, and architectural styles. On the other hand, most design-builds don't face this problem, considering they handle most of the proceedings to complete your home renovation. At Silver Oak Remodel, we can attest to this with our firm handling everything needed to transform your home from drab to fab, tailored to your specific customization needs. 

Choose Silver Oak Remodel to Experience the Design-Build Renovation Difference

Now you know why design-build is the better choice and how a design-build contractor in Atlanta, GA, can help. At Silver Oak Remodel, we handle all types of remodeling requests, including kitchen and bathroom remodeling, whole-home remodels, and additions. 

Our contractors are committed to every job they undertake, and you can trust you'll experience the design-build difference with us. So why not take a chance on our design-build firm? Contact us today and see why we're one of the best remodeling companies in Atlanta, GA.