Design-Build Contractor · Portland, OR
One Team. One Contract. Zero Gaps.
Design-build puts your designer and your builder on the same team — so decisions get made faster, budgets stay intact, and you have one person to call for everything.
The design-build difference
Architecture and Construction on the Same Team
Traditional construction separates your architect from your contractor. That gap — between design intent and construction reality — is where budgets blow up and timelines fall apart. Design-build closes that gap entirely.
At De Marco Builders, our team works together under one roof from concept to completion. Every detail is drawn with real-world cost and buildability in mind — creating better communication, fewer surprises, and a smoother experience from the first sketch to the day we hand you the keys. Essentially, we're with you every step of the way.
THE Design-Build Difference
Design, Built Right.
When design and construction are handled by the same team, everything changes. Decisions get made faster. Budgets stay intact. And instead of managing two separate contracts and two separate agendas, you have one point of accountability for the entire project — from the first concept to the final coat of paint.
The result is a build that reflects what you actually wanted, not a compromised version of it. Because the people drawing the plans are the same people executing them, there's no translation layer, no finger-pointing, and no surprises at the end. Just a finished project that looks exactly like what you signed off on.
THE PROCESS
What to Expect.
The design-build process starts with a conversation — not a contract. We spend time understanding your vision, your budget, and your timeline before anything gets drawn. From there, our in-house design team develops plans that are buildable from day one, so there are no costly redesigns once construction begins and no gap between what was designed and what gets built.
Once plans are finalized and permits are in hand, construction begins under the same team that designed the project. Your dedicated project manager keeps you informed at every phase, and our critical path scheduling means the project moves faster than you'd expect — without cutting corners to get there.
WHY DEMARCO
Why Portland Clients Choose Us.
Portland's longest-serving custom builder
In business since 1996, we know Portland's neighborhoods, soils, permits, and inspectors better than anyone.
Fixed price, fixed schedule
What we quote is what you pay. The date we give you is the date we hit. No surprise change orders, no budget creep, no exceptions — not once in 30 years of Portland construction.
One team from start to finish
Design, permits, construction — same crew, same point of contact, from the first site walk to the day we hand you the keys. No gaps in accountability, no finger-pointing when something needs to be fixed.
Award-winning craftsmanship
Recognized by Portland Monthly and the NW Natural Street of Dreams.
Family-owned since day one
Same owners, same values, nearly three decades running. You work with the people whose name is on the door.
Serving all of Portland Metro
From Lake Oswego and West Linn to Beaverton, Tigard, and every Portland neighborhood in between.
FAQ
Common Questions.
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Reach out and we'll get back to you within one business day.
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes
How long does a typical project take?
It depends on the size, scope, design complexity and permit process.
Typical project timelines include:
- ADUs: 45–60 days
- Home Additions: 45–90 days
- Remodels: 30–90 days
- Custom Homes: 90–160 days
- Commercial Projects: 90–160 days
How do you price a project?
Every proposal from De Marco Builders provides complete cost transparency. Our estimates clearly show the construction costs, company overhead, profit, and total project cost so clients fully understand where every dollar is allocated.
Do you require a deposit?
No. Never. We do not require an upfront deposit. The first payment is due only after a portion of the contracted work has been completed.
What happens if costs change during the project?
We guarantee the contract price through project completion unless the homeowner requests additional work beyond the original scope or unforeseen structural conditions are discovered that were not visible during the initial evaluation.
Can you work within a specific budget?
Absolutely. De Marco Builders is a budget-driven builder. We work within the client’s established budget throughout the design, engineering, permitting, and construction phases. We utilize value-engineering principles to maximize quality while maintaining budget goals.
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Yes. De Marco Builders is fully licensed, bonded, and insured. We maintain all required certifications and operate in full compliance with state regulations.
How do you handle unexpected issues that come up mid-project?
Unexpected issues are rare because of our extensive experience and thorough planning process. If an unforeseen issue does arise, it is addressed immediately, typically within 24 hours. We resolve issues in a code-compliant manner while protecting the project schedule.
How often will I receive updates?
Communication is one of our highest priorities. Once a client signs a contract, we maintain frequent communication throughout design, engineering, permitting, and construction. Clients receive regular progress updates, photos, and end-of-day reports so they remain informed from start to finish.
Our Projects
Recent Work
Design-Build Custom Home Portland | De Marco Builders
See how De Marco Builders transformed a 900 sq ft 1946 bungalow into a 2,400 sq ft custom home in just 120 days. Portland’s design-build general contractor.
Whole Home Remodel in NE Portland | De Marco Builders
Studs-out renovation: new electrical, plumbing, HVAC, two primary suites, relocated kitchen, and white oak finishes — completed in 120 days. Portland remodel contractor.
Backyard Cottage ADU Built in 89 Days | De Marco Builders
One of Portland’s most efficient ADU builds: an 800 sq ft craftsman backyard cottage, fully permitted and completed in just 89 days.
Ready to Build Something
You'll Love?
Get a free consultation with our team — no commitment, just a conversation about what's possible.
Get in Touch