Why Design-Build Works: A Smarter Renovation Process with Ashton Renovations – Part I

Part 1: What Is Design-Build — and Why It’s Better Than Bidding

If you’re thinking about a renovation project and wondering how to start, you might be surprised to learn that the way most people go about it is totally backwards. The old way—hiring an architect, getting drawings done, then calling a bunch of contractors for quotes—often leads to blown budgets, delays, and frustration. And while you wouldn’t hire an architect for a kitchen or bathroom renovation, many homeowners still dive into construction without a clear plan in place. That often leads to the same issues—unclear scope, shifting costs, and missed details. There’s a better way. It’s called Design-Build.

At Ashton Renovations, this is how we do things—and we’ve been doing it for over 25 years. We’ve found that a Design-Build approach leads to smoother projects, fewer surprises, and happier clients. This article breaks down what Design-Build actually is, and why it’s a much smarter path forward.

The Problem with the Old Way (Design-Bid-Build)

Picture this: A homeowner hires an architect, spends months developing plans, pays thousands in design fees, and then finally sends the drawings out to several contractors for bids. The quotes come back… and they’re all way over budget. Not only is the homeowner shocked, but the contractors have wasted hours pricing a job they likely won’t get.

Even on smaller projects—like kitchens and bathrooms, where architects aren’t typically involved—many homeowners make a similar mistake. They skip the design and planning stage, go straight to contractors for quotes, and end up with wildly inconsistent and inaccurate pricing. Without detailed specifications and a defined scope of work, it’s impossible to get meaningful estimates—and it wastes everyone’s time.

This is a true story. It was described in an article by Ken Sawatsky of Kenorah Construction. In one case, the homeowner had spent $38,000 on architectural drawings, permits, and consultants. Six contractors were invited to bid. Every quote was nearly $150,000 over budget. No one won. The contractors got nothing for their time. The homeowner had nothing to show for $47,000 in sunk costs.

The biggest problem? There was no connection between the design and the budget.

So What Is Design-Build?

Design-Build is a different approach that brings your renovation team together from the very beginning. The designer, contractor, and client work together as one team. Everyone is on the same page about goals, costs, and timelines—right from day one.

Instead of waiting until the drawings are done to find out the budget doesn’t work, we start with the budget and design to fit it. We go step-by-step to plan your project properly, help you make smart decisions, and only move forward when you’re ready.

At Ashton Renovations, we:

• Start with a site visit using LiDAR measurement tools with 360 images
• Discuss your lifestyle needs, design vision, and budget
• Work with you to choose materials, layouts, and products
• Use a clear digital board (Trello) to track selections and ideas
• Create plans and specs that match your priorities and investment

This process is just as effective for kitchens and bathrooms as it is for large-scale renovations. Even when you aren’t working with an architect, the same level of planning and coordination applies. Material selections, budgeting, and timelines still need to be managed carefully.

Why It Works Better for You

When you use Design-Build, you get:

• Clarity on budget early — No guessing games or pricing surprises later.
• A single point of contact — You deal with one company from start to finish.
• Time savings — Less back-and-forth between separate designers and contractors.
• Fewer delays — Because planning is integrated, not sequential.
• Stronger accountability — The same team that designs your renovation builds it, so nothing gets lost in translation.
• Smarter decisions — You make choices with the real numbers in front of you.

In other words, it’s not just about good design. It’s about good planning and execution.

And Here’s the Best Part:

You don’t have to commit to a huge renovation contract right away. At Ashton Renovations, you start with a Planning & Design Agreement. We act as your consultant—helping you figure out what’s possible, how much it will cost, and what it will look like.

From there, if everything lines up, we move to construction. No pressure. No surprises.