Our process.
Our process is a big part of your success. Datum Design Build was started to be an active partner from the first conversation until we hand you the keys, which is why we want to be involved as early as possible.
Call us early
Our goal is to serve people, whether they become clients or not.
We encourage you to call us before your project begins. An early conversation can give you valuable insight and direction as you get started, and if your project doesn't continue with us, we're still glad to have helped.
Step by step
The Hendrickson community room 01Your goals
If we move forward together, we begin by understanding your goals: square footage, room count, appearance, and schedule. We also capture the goals that are harder to measure, such as a building that feels like home, service spaces that keep behind-the-scenes work away from residents, or a plan that minimizes the impact on an occupied building.
Casa de Corazón, early design rendering 02Schematic design and first pricing
Next, we develop a preliminary design, known as schematic design, and complete our first round of pricing. As a contractor, we can price much more accurately, so we share the preliminary drawings with our trusted subcontractors and ask what it will take to complete your project. That early feedback means we're always working toward a budget rather than running from it or cutting items later. Every decision from here forward moves toward your budget and your goals, so you avoid designing a building, bidding it to another contractor, and only then discovering it's over budget.
Casa de Corazón, design development 03Design development and approvals
During design development, we refine the design and work out the details and flow. We bring in the city and other authorities having jurisdiction early to clear any roadblocks to final approval, and we guide you through city, planning, watershed, and any other approvals your project requires.
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Construction drawings and final pricing
With approvals in place, we complete the construction documents and finalize pricing.
Bridgewalk, during construction 05Construction
Then construction begins, guided by the goals we set in our first meeting. The same teammates have been on your side since day one, and you're never handed off.
The Hendrickson, resident patio 06The keys
At the end of a project, we want to see a beautiful building, but more importantly, the building you needed, with every goal from our first meeting checked off.
Harriet's Inn, years after opening 07After the keys
We don't just walk away once we've gotten to know you. After we hand you the keys, we're still here as a resource for operations and advice long after you move in.
How we guide you
We're not gatekeepers
We explain why we recommend something, with the pros and cons, so you can make the decision that's right for you. It's your building, and you should understand every choice that goes into it.
At your pace
We move as fast as you're comfortable. Some owners have built many times; others are building for the first time. Either way, we make sure you understand each step before we take the next one.
Honest from the start
If something isn't going to fit the budget or the schedule, you'll hear it from us early, along with a few ways to solve it.
Questions we hear
What is design-build?
One team designs and builds your project under one contract. You have one point of contact from the first sketch to the keys, and the people pricing your building are at the table while it's being designed.
Do I need an architect first?
No. Licensed architects and builders work together under one roof. Call us before you hire anyone, and we'll help you figure out what you need.
How early should I call?
Earlier than you think. Even if you don't have a site, a budget, or a plan yet, an early conversation can save you time and money later.
What if I already have drawings?
We can still help. We'll look at what you have, price it, and work with you to keep your goals and your budget lined up.
Where do you work?
We're based in Minneapolis and work across the Upper Midwest.
One team, one mission, all working toward the goals you set.
Have a project in mind?
Tell us what you're working on, even if it's early. Your first conversation is with our leadership, not a salesperson.