In construction, true success means more than just completing a building — it means delivering a high-performing, cost-effective project that meets the client’s goals without compromising quality. At Sun State Builders, we believe every project deserves that level of thoughtful execution. That’s why value engineering is central to how we work.
With more than 50 years of design-build expertise and thousands of projects completed, we’ve honed a proactive and creative approach to VE; one that begins before design even starts and continues through every phase of construction. The result? Projects that are efficient, economical and built with purpose.
What Is Value Engineering?
Value engineering is a structured, systematic process aimed at maximizing value by optimizing the function of a project while controlling costs, without ever compromising on quality, safety or design integrity. It’s not about cutting corners; it’s about making smart decisions.
VE is most effective when integrated early in the Design-Build process, but it can also be applied to projects designed by others. The key difference? VE done early can prevent costly redesigns and unlock more significant savings.
The Sun State Builders’ VE Process
At Sun State Builders, VE isn’t a one-time exercise — it’s a mindset that guides how we think, plan and build. Here’s how we integrate value into every step of the process:
- Starts with Due Diligence
Before any drawings are made, we roll up our sleeves and dive deep into the project’s foundation, literally and figuratively. We assess existing site conditions, interpret zoning codes and establish open communication with local agencies. By identifying constraints early, we eliminate surprises later and set the project up for long-term success.
- Define Goals & Budget Early
No one likes scope creep or budget overruns. That’s why we begin with clear conversations with the client to define objectives, functional requirements and expectations. We then shape a realistic scope and budget that becomes our North Star throughout the project.
- Design with Intention
As the design develops, we keep one eye on the blueprint and the other on the budget. Every element is evaluated for its contribution to the overall function and value. We work to balance aesthetics and performance with cost-effectiveness, ensuring that no dollar is wasted and no feature is unnecessary.
- Bring in Experts Early
Our subject matter experts (SMEs) don’t wait for final drawings to chime in. Instead, they’re involved from day one. Their input identifies opportunities, uncovers efficiencies and prevents rework down the road. This early engagement ensures smarter decisions and tighter coordination between trades and design intent.
- Monitor Scope & Budget Throughout
Design is fluid, and so are project realities. We continuously track costs and scope, conducting regular budget check-ins and feasibility reviews. This allows us to adapt quickly and maintain alignment with the client’s priorities, avoiding last-minute compromises or budget blowouts.
- Collaborate Continuously
VE isn’t a task to check off; it’s a collaborative mindset that runs through the entire project lifecycle. From preconstruction through closeout, we work hand-in-hand with owners, designers, engineers, and subcontractors to ensure every decision adds real value. Our team treats every project like it’s our own, driving creative solutions that support both form and function.
How Much Money Can VE Save?
In two words: A lot. On average, Sun State Builders saves clients 10% or more of the total project cost through VE strategies. The biggest opportunities for savings typically come from:
- Pre-Design Planning
- Site Work Optimization
- Structural System Efficiency
- Finishes & Fixtures Selection
Even on projects where we weren’t involved in the design, we’ve applied VE strategies to help clients reduce costs. However, those savings can be limited by how far along the plans are and the time required for redesign and re-approval.
Busting the Myth: VE Doesn’t Mean Downgrading
Too often, value engineering is misunderstood, especially when it’s applied late in a project to reduce costs after bids come in over budget. In those cases, VE can feel like a painful “carve-out” process that sacrifices quality.
That’s not how we do it.
At Sun State Builders, VE is about being proactive, not reactive. Our decades of experience mean we’ve developed standardized best practices that embed VE into every phase of the project. We don’t see limitations — we see possibilities. And we keep finding new ways to deliver more for less.
Final Thoughts
At the heart of it, value engineering is about integrity — building the best possible project for the best possible value. And that’s what we do at Sun State Builders. With a collaborative process, expert insight and relentless creativity, we make every project smarter, leaner and better from the ground up.
Want to learn how VE can add value to your next project? Let’s talk.