Design/Build Strategy Paves Way for Profitable Performance For Helix Electric
As design/build projects continue to gain momentum in the construction industry, the need for quality electrical contractors will increase. Enter San Diego-based Helix Electric, Inc., one of the nation's largest and most successful electrical contractors that specialize in design/build. With increasing demand for tighter schedules, early commitment and a single point of accountability for a project, the market is turning to design/build as a preferred delivery method. This process gives clients control over their critical decisions by reviewing different options and analyzing their cost implications during the early stages of project development. Staying in line with this strategy, Helix Electric gives it clients a guaranteed price for electrical scope work prior to the completion of construction drawings.
"Our expertise and reliability combine cost-effective design and high quality workmanship," said Gary Shekhter, Helix president and CEO. "This approach achieves the best value and return on investment for our clients."
The main purpose behind the design/build method is to reduce a project's duration by overlapping design and construction activities. Under this growing method, electrical contractors such as Helix Electric are now taking part in the actual design process of construction projects. Unlike traditional design-bid-build projects, design/build means that one entity signs a single contract to provide both design and construction services. This concept has become popular and successful for numerous projects, such as office buildings, schools, health care facilities, retail centers, and residential and mixed-use projects.
Design/build fosters collaboration between the master builder and the contractors involved in a project. By bringing the design and construction expertise together on a project, the architect and the builder can create and deliver the best solutions for each client. By including the electrical contractors in the design/build process, clients can make well-informed decisions throughout the project, which can reduce the need for redesign.
"Design/build allows electrical contractors to showcase their expertise and capabilities," Shekhter said. "Building owners are moving more toward the design/build method because they want more bang for their buck. They want to have all services under one roof, so to speak, and they want the project to be completed today."
A leader in design/build electrical contracting, Helix Electric knows that pre-planning and coordinating with all the players involved in a project is critical for success. The company, which has worked on numerous design/build projects in Downtown San Diego, even collaborates with the plumbing and mechanical staff on each project to ensure every detail is mapped out and completed correctly.
One of Helix Electric's most prominent design/build projects is Seahuas, the first new condominium project in La Jolla, Calif. in more than 20 years. The upscale Seahaus project includes 138 units in 13 buildings, and includes two-story town homes, large flats, loft studios, row homes, and luxury single-level ocean-view condos. A 5,700 square-foot retail center, community meeting center and recreation amenities are also part of the project. Helix Electric is providing a complete design/build electrical system for Seahaus, including a fire alarm system, and pre-wiring for telephone, data, cable and security systems. Helix is also providing light fixtures, soundproofing, fireproofing, and power for landscape irrigation and pool equipment.
By playing a vital role in the design/build process, Helix Electric helps fast-track construction projects without sacrificing quality.
"We are constantly asking ourselves how we can deliver better value, shorten construction schedules and improve our services by providing a constant flow of new methods and ideas," Shekhter said.
About Helix Electric:
Founded in 1985, San Diego-based Helix Electric, Inc. has become one of the largest electrical contractors in the United States. The company specializes in design/build, engineering, and installation projects. Helix Electric's services include electrical, fiber optic cable, energy management system, emergency power system, electrical fence, voltage substation and distribution system installation. For more information please visit www.helixelectric.com.
