What Is Design/Build?

Process · Working method

Design/Build is a term that describes the process where architects and general contractors work together to develop a project. Unlike the traditional architect/general contractor relationship, where the design is complete before the builder becomes involved, in design/build, the builder is involved early on in the process. In our office, that takes a couple of forms. Matthew is both a licensed architect and a licensed general contractor, so his designs always incorporate a builder’s and an architect’s perspective. Amy’s experience is weighted in the building end, but her degree in architecture gives her an aesthetic background. As design build firms go, FB combines the two aspects very thoroughly- our carpenters and architects are in daily communication from beginning to end.

The advantages of design/build can be seen throughout our projects.

Cost engineering

From preliminary through final design, our intimate knowledge of construction costs allows us to provide real world estimates for our design solutions. Clients benefit by making design decisions weighed against budget concerns.

Advance design input

During the design phase of a project, we often bring our subcontractors and carpenters to the site to provide us with valuable design input, leading to a more cost effective project.

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Mission

Firm

Friedman Brueggemeyer is a design build firm in Berkeley, California that values responsibility to their clients, employees and their community. They collaborate with a team of talented architects and dedicated craftspeople to produce a quality product for residential clients, non-profit groups and commercial…

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Green Building

Firm

For Friedman Brueggemeyer, green building is not a magic pill that solves the dilemma of waste and pollution in the construction process. We incorporate thoughtful design and appropriate choices in the creation of a beautiful finished product. Our years of experience in both design and construction give us the…

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Community Service

Community

Friedman Brueggemeyer is a small local business committed to a positive contribution to the community. Our involvement has developed over the years to include many aspects of life.

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Residential

Projects

Twenty-three East Bay houses: second-storey additions, kitchen and bath renovations, seismic upgrades and two homes rebuilt after the Oakland hills firestorm.

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Commercial

Projects

Offices, dispatch and conference space for LJ Kruse Company, reconfigured commercial offices for Red Oak Realty, and a 1940s Solano Avenue corner remade as a solar powered food establishment.

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Non-Profit

Projects

Several years ago, Friedman Brueggemeyer decided to focus a portion of their energy on community service. One of the ways they are achieving this goal is by offering their services and those of their subcontractors to local non-profit groups at a sliding scale of reduced fees. Matthew and Amy donate all of their…

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Trade resources

All trade resources

Reading

  • Countertops: Your OptionsKitchens.com
  • About StoneAlpha Marble and Granite, Northern CA
  • About ConcreteSonoma Cast Stone, Sonoma, CA
  • Wooden CountertopsSullivan Coutertops, Oakland, CA
  • Wood vs. Plastic: SanitationThe Reluctant Gourmet
  • Wood Floor MaintenanceNational Wood Floor Assiciation

The full reading list