In the world of commercial construction, simplicity is often underrated. But for clients managing multiple priorities, unpredictable schedules, and complex project needs, working with an integrated design-build team can be the difference between a drawn-out process and a streamlined success story.
At Riverstone, we’ve embraced the design-build model because we’ve seen what it does for our clients: less stress, fewer delays, and greater confidence from day one.
What Is a Design-Build General Contractor?
In a traditional construction model, the design and building phases are separate—handled by different companies under separate contracts. This often leads to breakdowns in communication and delays between the design, budgeting, and construction stages. In contrast, an integrated design-build team manages both design and construction under one roof. This single-source responsibility improves alignment, shortens timelines, and keeps projects moving forward.
According to the Design-Build Institute of America, design-build projects are completed 102% faster than design-bid-build counterparts. That’s not just efficient—it’s transformational. Riverstone has built its approach around this model, offering clients a cohesive, accountable process from concept to completion.
How the Design-Build Approach Simplifies Delivery
Riverstone’s design-build approach isn’t just efficient—it’s practical. Here’s how our integrated process helps clients stay focused, informed, and in control from start to finish.
One Point of Contact, One Proven Process
Instead of juggling multiple vendors and timelines, Riverstone clients work with one unified team. This reduces back-and-forth and gives decision-makers clarity at every stage. This type of project delivery method streamlines every step under a single contract.
Faster Project Timelines
With design and construction happening in tandem, project milestones arrive faster. Riverstone’s teams coordinate early and often, minimizing downtime and delivering results on tight schedules. The same team manages both design and build, helping clients save time during each phase of the construction process.
Greater Budget Control
Design-build allows for early budgeting and value engineering—keeping surprises (and overruns) to a minimum. Riverstone’s integrated team monitors budgets in real-time, adjusting as needed to protect client priorities. This design build process is proven to support long-term cost savings by aligning design decisions with financial goals.
Built-in Collaboration
When architects, engineers, and construction managers work side by side, ideas flow more freely. Riverstone believes in bringing the right people to the table from the beginning, ensuring quality, consistency, and accountability throughout. This collaborative environment allows for innovative solutions and quicker adjustments when challenges arise.
When Design-Build Makes the Most Sense
Design-build construction works well in fast-paced, complex, or highly collaborative environments. Whether it’s a ground-up build or a high-end interior renovation, the model gives owners more control with fewer complications.
Take Riverstone’s project for Bangers and Dinks. The project was completed on time and under budget—delivered with a design-build approach that kept everyone aligned from day one.
Choosing the Right Design-Build General Contractor
Not every firm offering “design-build” delivers on its full potential. The difference comes down to experience, process, and communication. At Riverstone, we’ve completed hundreds of projects across the Mid-Atlantic by relying on the right teams and proven processes—delivering consistent quality, building trust, and earning a high percentage of repeat clients.
We don’t just finish projects; we build lasting relationships. That commitment shines through in every aspect of our work—from how we communicate to how we manage construction contracts and cost expectations. As Joanne Marcus, MSW, President and CEO of Commonwealth Community Trust, shared after an office renovation,
“Simply put, we LOVE the new space for our growing team! We feel very fortunate to have connected with Riverstone… Amanda and her team successfully executed on our designer’s vision to create a welcoming work environment and all within budget.”
At the heart of a successful design-build project is a team that values collaboration, communication, and long-term success—which brings us to Riverstone’s approach.
Riverstone’s Design-Build Philosophy
At Riverstone, design-build isn’t just a method—it’s a mindset. We believe construction should move from reactive problem-solving to forward-thinking solutions—from simply completing jobs to doing them right.
At Riverstone, we bring clarity to the complex through people-focused processes that prioritize relationships as much as results. That means being project-ready, not just project-focused. More importantly, it means being people-focused.
“We believe construction isn’t just about buildings—it’s about people, trust, and long-term partnerships.” — Amanda Wheeler, Owner/CEO
Backed by two decades of experience and a trusted network of architects, engineers, and design professionals, we pride ourselves on being a construction partner that integrates seamlessly into any project team. It’s this integrated approach that defines Riverstone as a trusted design-build GC with a reputation for excellence.
Simplify, Streamline, and Succeed with Riverstone
Working with a design-build general contractor means gaining a true partner in your project—not just a builder. At Riverstone, we take pride in delivering forward-thinking solutions, collaborative processes, and construction experiences rooted in trust.
We adapt to meet your needs—and we work hand-in-hand with architects, engineers, and owners alike to bring your vision to life. Let’s build something better—together.
Explore our portfolio or contact us to start the conversation.