Who is primarily responsible for completing design in a design-build project?

• A. Design-builder
• B. Owner
• C. Contractor
• D. Architect

Answer: (A)

In a design-build project, the design-builder is the party responsible for completing the design. This delivery method puts both design and construction under one contract with a single entity, so the design-builder coordinates and finalizes the design to meet the owner’s goals, codes, and constructability constraints, while managing cost and schedule. The owner outlines requirements and performance targets, but the design-builder bears the primary accountability for delivering the completed design, often using architects or engineers as part of their team. The owner isn’t responsible for completing the design, and the architect or contractor aren’t independently accountable for the overall design under this arrangement—the design-builder holds that responsibility.