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The Master Builder Renaissance
The story goes that a medieval master builder was summoned to
the Bishop’s chamber and commissioned to design and construct
the churchman’s grand new university. Working as part architect
and part engineer, the master builder’s task was to translate
a vision into reality. No small job; then or now.
Today in the construction industry a new version of the master
builder concept has emerged. It’s called the design-build
method, and it applies team work to areas of construction that
have evolved into very separate activities. The real value of
design-build lies in its ability to generate time saving, cost-efficient
new delivery methods for owners and developers.
Traditionally, designers and architects are hired to create
structures to meet functional and aesthetic requirement. Construction
firms are charged with turning blueprints into quality, cost-efficient
structures - on spec, on time and on budget. The design-build
concept seeks to meld these crucial but differing approaches,
while harnessing the individual strengths of each.
By focusing the design-build team’s attention on the project
as a whole it becomes possible to look at real costs earlier
in the process. Construction begins more quickly and solutions
can be developed on shorter timelines. This brings value to
the project and yields a greater investment for clients.
At Aecon we believe a collaborative approach is the best way
to achieve project goals. Developing a clear understanding of
an owner’s functional and aesthetic objectives is the vital
first step. Then we can tailor our services, which include value
engineering, life-cycle analysis and financial proforma, to
meet specific needs. Our systematic approach enables us to deliver
on financial, quality and time commitments sooner than with
a more conventional process. When every element of the work
is closely monitored, construction can begin before design is
100% complete.
Using this fast-track method, budget versus design conflicts
can be quickly resolved because the process is solution focused.
As much as several months can be shaved off traditional construction
timelines, minimizing risk for clients.
The concept may have originated with the medieval builder, but
design-build is an idea that’s time has clearly come again.
Today construction and design teams can "stand beneath
their bridges at the opening" with confidence that they
are delivering the highest value for their clients.
"And the law stated that engineers
must stand beneath their bridges at the
opening."
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