Discover this firm’s innovative approach to design-build that stands out in St. Louis
See how Dana King Design Build Remodeling’s design-driven philosophy allows for more innovation than other firms
Courtesy of Dana King Design Build; Photography by Karen Palmer Photographer
When Dana King founded her design-build firm in St. Louis, she did so with a clear purpose: to create a seamless, innovative, and client-centered remodeling process.
Drawing on her experience as an independent designer, she saw firsthand the challenges that homeowners face when managing multiple contractors and navigating inconsistent building practices. Her goal was to offer a better way, one that combines high design with innovative solutions, where production and design teams work seamlessly together.
The result: a design-build firm driven by lifestyle-centered outcomes, where every project reflects the unique needs and preferences of the clients, helping them live better at home.
Courtesy of Dana King Design Build; Photography by Karen Palmer Photographer
Why Dana King Went With A Design-Build Approach
The traditional approach to a home remodel often requires homeowners to hire an independent designer, secure a contractor, and manage the complexities between them.
Before opening her own firm, King observed that this approach frequently led to communication gaps and inconsistent quality that failed to meet the standards of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. This ultimately caused frustration and put undue risk on the client.
“Designers can make anything look beautiful, but making it functional is where the rubber meets the road,” King said.
Enter the design-build model: a streamlined approach where a collaborating team handles both design and remodeling construction. This model eliminates the disconnect between planning and execution. It also ensures better outcomes, predictable timelines, and a single point of accountability, according to Design-Build Institute of America.
But not all design-build firms are the same.
Types of Design-Build Firms
There are a few types of design-build firms, each with their own approach and their own benefits. To decide which design-build firm is right for your project, you must first consider the end result that you desire and select the approach that best fits that outcome.
Process-Driven Firms: These firms focus on efficiency, prioritizing moving a project through the pipeline quickly. These companies often have a specific portfolio that their clients love and want to replicate in their own home to make it more appealing and functional. This approach can be ideal for homeowners seeking straightforward remodels that can be completed on a quick timeline with minimal client involvement in the design process.
Design-Driven Firms: Design-driven firms, such as Dana King Design Build Remodeling, emphasize creativity and customization. These firms integrate the latest strategic innovations and tailor every project to the client’s lifestyle, while also incorporating an efficient process. Where designers may step away once construction begins in other approaches, design-driven firms keep the designer involved from start to finish. This helps ensure a cohesive vision and outcomes that enhance both functionality and aesthetics.
Courtesy of Dana King Design Build; Photography by Karen Palmer Photographer
Elevating Homes with a Design-Driven Philosophy
King’s design-driven philosophy reflects her dedication to lifestyle-focused remodeling. Her firm takes a holistic approach, considering such items as cabinet placement, furniture layouts, tactile finishes, and often-overlooked aspects that create a comfortable feeling in the space: balanced temperature, air quality, and intentional lighting.
But even in the world of design-build firms, Dana King stands out for its level of innovation, having pioneered barrier-free showers, linear drains—and now invisible induction cooktops—in St. Louis.
“As an independent designer, I often found my efforts to advocate for the client marginalized,” King says. “The traditional independent contractor model tends to lack the agility needed for innovation. That’s why I prioritized seeking out forward-thinking designers and trade partners who share my commitment to staying informed and embracing the latest techniques.”
Courtesy of Dana King Design Build; Photography by Karen Palmer Photographer
By housing a team of designers, project managers, and trade partners under the same roof, King is able to ensure designs are not only beautiful but will meet the highest standards, all backed by a 10-year workmanship warranty.
For homeowners seeking imaginative, highly personalized designs, King’s team is an ideal choice. Her design-driven approach doesn’t just remodel homes—it transforms them into spaces that help clients live better at home.
This post was created by SLM Partner Studio on behalf of Dana King Design Build. To learn more, visit danaking.com.
