Chapter 8 - § 8.1 • INTRODUCTION

• Jurisdiction: Colorado

§ 8.1 • INTRODUCTION

Construction projects typically involve a tripartite arrangement comprised of an owner, designer, and contractor. The owner finances the project, selects the professionals who will carry out the design and construction work, and provides the overall vision for the project. In a traditional arrangement, the owner contracts separately with the designer and the contractor, acting as a middleman between those parties.

"Design-build" is an alternative project delivery model that continues to grow in popularity, especially in private-sector projects. In design-build projects, the owner contracts with one entity that provides both design and construction services. Regardless of the arrangement, the design professional may choose to engage one or more subconsultants to complete portions of its scope of work. Subconsultants are often engaged where work requires specialized expertise or to promote efficiency.

Throughout this chapter, the abbreviation "A/E" (architect/engineer) and the phrase "design professional" will be used interchangeably to refer to the architect as well as consulting engineers in all disciplines, including civil, mechanical, electrical, structural, and geotechnical engineering.

Landscape architects are licensed professionals in the State of Colorado.¹ However, C.R.S. § 12-130-117 does not apply to residential landscape design. According to the same section, the...