Planning a home remodel is an exciting milestone, but it often comes with big questions. How do you choose the right team? What process will make the experience smoother, not more stressful? And why choose design-build over the traditional approach most homeowners are familiar with?
In this guide, we’ll break down what design-build really is, how it compares to traditional construction methods, and why it has become the preferred choice for Wausau homeowners looking to create beautiful, lasting spaces.
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Design-build is a project delivery method where one company manages every phase of your remodel: design, pricing, planning, selections, permitting, and construction. Instead of hiring a designer first and then bidding the project out to various contractors, you work with a single, collaborative team from day one.
The Ross Construction design-build home remodeling process blends in-house design capability with trusted architectural partners, allowing us to take on everything from whole-home remodels to kitchens, bathrooms, additions, and custom renovation projects. We are remodeling contractors that Wausau, WI trusts.
If you're looking for guidance on layout changes, structural modifications, or selections, our team walks with you through each step to create a remodel that fits your lifestyle and feels distinctly yours.
Most homeowners have two approaches for completing a custom home remodel in Wausau: design-build vs traditional general contractor. Understanding the difference is key to choosing the right path for your project.
The design–bid–build model is the long-standing approach many homeowners are familiar with. In this method, design and construction happen separately.
Here’s what that typically involves:
This approach can work well for straightforward projects with clearly defined scopes. But for more involved remodels, it may feel fragmented or require more homeowner oversight.
What does a design-build company do? Design-build brings design, estimating, and construction under one roof. Instead of separate teams working independently, you work with one unified team from the beginning.
Here’s what that typically means for homeowners:
Design-build is especially beneficial for complex remodels such as additions, structural reconfigurations, whole-home updates, or major kitchen projects. Homeowners who want a guided, cohesive experience often find that design-build helps maintain alignment between vision, budget, and timeline.
One of the biggest reasons homeowners choose design-build is the clarity and guidance the process provides. Instead of wondering what comes next or feeling overwhelmed by decisions, you follow a clearly outlined path that keeps your budget, timeline, and goals front and center.
Here’s how Ross Construction’s design-build process works:
Every project begins with a simple, pressure-free phone call. You share your goals, your vision, and the problems you’re hoping to solve. We discuss a realistic starting budget based on similar projects in Wausau and the surrounding areas so that everyone is aligned early.
Next, we visit your home to walk the space together. This allows us to understand your priorities, see any challenges firsthand, and begin shaping the direction of your project.
After the site visit, we prepare a high-level, good-faith ballpark estimate. This is based on real Wausau remodeling data from past kitchens, additions, bathrooms, and whole-home projects. You get clarity around major cost categories, along with options for phasing the work if needed.
Learn more in our Cost Guide.
If the ballpark fits your budget, we will enter into a design agreement. You’ll work with our in-house designer or one of our architectural partners to refine layouts, selections, finishes, and structural details.
Here, the design-build method really shines. Our estimating and construction teams stay closely involved to keep the design aligned with your goals and budget.
Once your design is finalized, we prepare a full, transparent, line-by-line estimate. No surprises. No vague allowances. Just clarity.
Together, we finalize drawings, lock in selections, and prepare for construction. Every detail is addressed upfront, so the build phase is smooth and predictable.
This is where the vision comes to life. Our production team keeps you informed with regular updates, a clear schedule, and dependable communication. You’ll always know what’s happening and when.
At the end of your project, we walk your newly remodeled space together to make sure every detail meets our standards and yours. You’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing your project is backed by our industry-leading 3-year warranty.
This thoughtful, homeowner-friendly process is what sets Ross apart among Wausau home renovation companies. Families choose design-build because it transforms remodeling from a stressful experience into a guided and enjoyable journey. Discover our Whole Home Remodeling services.
There are significant advantages of the design-build approach to home remodeling in Wausau. Here are some of the top benefits:
With design-build, everyone is on the same page. Instead of acting as the middleman, you have a single point of contact guiding the entire project. This reduces miscommunication, missed details, and unnecessary stress.
When design and construction work together from the start, your plans stay aligned with your investment goals. This means:
This is one of the biggest benefits of design-build remodeling, especially for larger projects like whole-home renovations, additions, or extensive kitchen updates.
Traditional remodeling relies on a slow handoff between designer and contractor. Design-build overlaps these phases, which allows construction prep to begin long before the final design is complete.
One team is responsible for your entire project. This means:
Design-build contractors are deeply invested in your satisfaction because they own the entire outcome.
Homeowners consistently report that design-build “just feels better.” You’re supported through every phase, including selections, layout decisions, budget conversations, and all the little moments in between.
Homeowners seeking a smoother, more predictable remodeling experience find that the design-build method offers meaningful advantages at every step. Clear communication, unified planning, and early budget alignment all work together to reduce stress and deliver a remodel that stays true to your vision.
That’s why so many families choose Ross Construction. As a trusted leader in design-build remodeling in Wausau, our team is dedicated to guiding you through a process that feels informed, transparent, and genuinely enjoyable.
All of the advantages are great, but is design-build worth it?
For many homeowners, the answer comes down to how much clarity and collaboration they want throughout their remodel. When design and construction are aligned from the beginning, the entire experience becomes more predictable and far less stressful.
This is especially true for more involved projects such as additions, whole-home updates, and Wausau bathroom remodeling, where selections, layout decisions, and structural considerations can quickly become overwhelming without a coordinated team in place.
Choosing the right approach for your remodel is just as important as choosing the right materials, layout, and finishes. For many families in Wausau, the design-build method offers the clarity, coordination, and confidence needed to transform their home without unnecessary stress. With one unified team guiding the project from concept to completion, the entire experience becomes more predictable, more collaborative, and ultimately more enjoyable.
As a trusted leader in Wausau design-build remodeling, Ross Construction brings together thoughtful design, detailed planning, and skilled craftsmanship under one roof. Our team is committed to helping you navigate your remodel with transparency and professionalism, delivering a space that feels beautifully aligned with your lifestyle.
Contact us today to begin your design-build journey with one of the top home remodelers in Wausau.