California Church Construction Advisors

    Design-Build vs. Owner's Representative for Churches

    Min Kang, CCMOctober 2026

    How the design-build model works

    [Placeholder paragraph explaining how design-build works. This section will outline the structure of a single contract where the architect and contractor are either the same firm or a partnered entity working under one roof.]

    What design-build does well

    [Placeholder paragraph for what design-build does well. We will discuss the speed and efficiency of having designers and builders collaborating early, and the reduction of certain types of change orders.]

    The question nobody in the room is paid to ask

    [Placeholder paragraph for the conflict of interest. This section will address the core issue: when the entity drawing the plans is the same entity pricing them, who checks the numbers on behalf of the church?]

    Planning a church project?

    Request a free assessment.

    What an owner's representative changes

    [Placeholder paragraph for what an owner's rep changes. We will explain how an independent advisor acts as a fiduciary, reviewing the design-builder's proposals, bids, and change orders with only the church's budget in mind.]

    Can you use both? (Yes - and when you should)

    [Placeholder paragraph for using both. This section will explain that hiring a design-build firm for execution and an owner's representative for oversight is often an excellent strategy for larger church projects.]

    Questions to ask any design-build firm before signing

    [Placeholder paragraph for questions to ask. We will provide a checklist of inquiries regarding transparent bidding, self-performed work, and fee structures that churches should bring to their design-build interviews.]

    [Placeholder closing paragraph wrapping up the guide. To ensure your church has an independent advocate reviewing every number and contract, learn more about our church owner's representation services.]

    Min Kang

    Min Kang, CCM

    [One-line bio placeholder describing Min's experience as an independent church construction advisor and owner's representative.]