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Design-build promises integration, speed, innovation and greater certainty, but what does it ask of the architect in return?

Join Mithun principal Seamus Kelly for “Designing From the Other Side of the Contract,” a candid conversation among experienced architects will examine how the architect’s role changes when contractual authority, commercial risk, design responsibility and client advocacy no longer align in familiar ways. Panelists will explore where design-build elevates design, where it creates genuine tension, and what distinguishes truly integrated teams from those that are design-build in contract only. The discussion will examine the tradeoffs, behaviors and leadership choices that determine whether design-build fulfills its promise.

Seamus will serve as a panelist with Mortenson senior design phase manager Heather Johnston, Henneberry Eddy associate principal Jon McGrew, McGranahanPKB principal Kris Stamon. Perkins & Will managing director Todd Buchanan will moderate.

Date Posted: 09.09.2026