Christman > Services > Design / Build and EPC

Christman's collaborative project management style makes our turnkey, design/build services an excellent choice for clients seeking single-source accountability for planning, design and construction of their projects. Our understanding of this complex process, combined with access to the best experts in our field, enables us to assemble the most qualified team to match the project's specific requirements. We then lead an integrated planning process that enables interactive value analysis of alternative designs together with early cost and schedule estimates, fostering innovation, saving time and ultimately yielding the best, most cost-effective design and construction solutions. 

Under this approach, the client hires the builder and architect/engineer as one design/build contractor entity, who may be selected either before or after the price has been established. In cases where the price is established first, the design/build contractor will typically submit a proposal based on a schematic level design developed by another party. When the price is established later in the process, the design/build contractor is typically selected on the basis of qualifications and fees. Once selected, the design/build team works together with the client to develop the project and price. When a sufficient amount of the design has been completed, a lump sum or Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) for the project can be established.

The Engineer Procure Construct (EPC) delivery method is very similar to design/build and used in the Industrial/Power industry when a turnkey, fast-track approach is necessary. A typical option is for clients to purchase major equipment direct and limit the “p” to “balance of plant” equipment, which allows for quicker delivery on the long lead process equipment. Christman is flexible to tailor the delivery method to our client’s needs. 

Pros

  • Saves time, enables fast-track delivery (construction can begin before design is complete)
  • Single-source accountability
  • Phased construction possible
  • Early GMP reduces client concerns of cost overruns
  • Streamlined communications and accelerated decision-making
  • Superior quality assurance and reduced change orders
  • Maximum design to budget reconciliation