The traditional design-bid-build method tends to be preferred by owners who want more creative control and involvement in the development process. With this approach, design and construction services are split into separate contracts that are managed simultaneously by the owner/developer. It works well if you have the time and desire to manage the different players, and prefer each of them to stay in their lane. While it tends to be less time efficient than other methods, the tradeoff was worth it for owner/developer Tom Grojean.

Architect Ronald Zurcher said, “The physical architecture evolved directly from the land and the place itself, fusing into a shared vision.”
The interior design firm Martha Dayton Design from Minnesota was added to the team to create a special atmosphere for the Grojeans and help streamline the procurement of FF&E.

When the construction drawings, bid documents, and approvals were ready, Grojean had planned to put the project out to bid and compare contractor prices. In the end, however, he decided to negotiate directly with Pacific Coast Construction. “Pacific Coast was very transparent with us throughout the budgeting process,” Grojean said. “Their pricing was fair, and expectations were clear. It was the right fit for us.”

From an administrative standpoint, Grojean retained control over direct and indirect construction costs, accounts payable, and cash flow.

“Martha, Ronald, and Jeremy were great team players and worked well together, solving all the usual issues that arise during construction,” Grojean said. “Building our new beach house on Papagayo was an exciting and rewarding experience.”