What does "design-build" refer to in construction services?

"Design-build" refers to a project delivery system that combines design and construction services under a single contract. This method streamlines the construction process by allowing the owner to work with one entity responsible for both design and construction, which can improve communication, reduce the likelihood of disputes, and often accelerate project completion.

In a design-build approach, the contractor and designer collaborate closely from the beginning of the project, allowing for more innovative problem solving and more efficient project execution. This contrasts with traditional project delivery methods, where design and construction are separate processes involving different parties, which can lead to miscommunication and prolong the project timeline.

The other choices do not accurately represent the concept of design-build. Focusing solely on design aspects or handling construction and architecture separately misses the key feature of integration that design-build delivers, and a funding model is unrelated to the design-build system as it describes how financial resources are allocated rather than the process of delivering a project.