What Is Design-Build?
Design, planning, and construction — fully integrated
Unlike the traditional model — where separate firms design and then contractors compete to build — design-build unifies design and construction under a single contract from day one. Early collaboration, real-time value engineering, and budget alignment mean the design matches the budget and the schedule. Fewer surprises. Fewer delays. More accountability.
With a single team managing every phase, communication stays sharp and execution stays precise. At Kellow, your drawings, selections, and construction are handled by the same people — our in-house interior designer works shoulder to shoulder with our project managers and field team from concept through close-out.
Most of our clients have us manage the full design process and love the results. But we also work with clients who already have drawings and just need a contractor they can trust to build them right.
Start the Conversation
How It Works
A thoughtful process, start to finish
1
Initial Consultation
We want to learn about your project, including your wants and needs. We will discuss your time frame and target investment to explore whether we are the right fit.
2
Feasibility Study & Process Review
We walk through the details of your project, explore what is possible within your investment range, and discuss a preliminary plan and estimated budget.
3
Design Phase
Once the Design Contract is executed, our design team works with you to develop drawings, plans, and selections — putting your vision to paper with real-time value engineering at every step.
4
Final Pricing
Our trade partners provide firm quotes after a thorough review at your home. We develop a single fixed price for construction — no surprises, no line-item negotiations.
5
Construction Phase
This phase begins with a pre-production period where you meet your project team, review the schedule, and finalize on-site logistics before work begins.
6
Job Completion & Warranty
Our comprehensive warranty gives you peace of mind that we will be there for you long after your project is completed.
Why It Matters
What design-build provides
Integrated schedule
Design and construction phases run concurrently rather than in sequence. You are not waiting on approved drawings while contractors schedule site visits or develop bids.
Cost-informed design
Cost is evaluated throughout the design process, not at its conclusion. Selections and scope are developed with construction pricing in mind, so the estimate reflects a project we are confident we can build.
Single point of accountability
Design and construction accountability rest with one team. Questions about scope, schedule, or decisions do not require coordination between multiple firms.
Constructable design
Our designers and field team work in close collaboration throughout each project. Plans are reviewed for constructability before they are presented to you, and the design team remains involved during construction.
Local expertise
We have navigated Santa Barbara's permitting process, HOA requirements, and Montecito overlay regulations across a range of project types. This familiarity informs how we approach feasibility and timeline from the first conversation.
What We Build
Design-build services
Whole House Remodels
Full-scope transformations — from gut renovation to thoughtful updates that make your whole home work better.
Kitchen Design & Remodel
We design and build kitchens worth cooking in — layouts that work, finishes that last.
Bath Design & Remodel
Spa-quality bathrooms that hold up. We handle layout, plumbing, tile, and all the details that make the difference.
Home Additions
We design and build home additions that feel like they were always there — from concept through permit and construction.
Custom Guest Houses
Custom guest houses designed and built for your property — whether that's bringing family home, adding flexible living space, or creating something that feels like it was always there.
We weren’t just looking for a contractor. We wanted someone who could see what our house could become. Kellow did exactly that — and then they built it.
Santa Barbara homeowner — Whole House Remodel
Interested in learning more about our process?
We begin every project with a conversation. We’ll discuss your goals, your investment range, and whether our process is the right fit for your project.
Let’s Talk About Your Project
Already Have Plans?
Just need a general contractor in Santa Barbara?
Already have your own architect or plans? As your general contractor in Santa Barbara, we offer pre-construction and construction services for clients who are ready to build. Read our FAQs on how we can work with you if you’re starting at pre-construction.
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