A construction cost management firm helps owners and design teams plan, evaluate, and control project costs throughout design and construction. Services typically include Cost Estimating, Conceptual Cost Modeling, Target Value Design, Estimate Review & Reconciliation, and Value Engineering.

Cost management is our sole focus. Our cost managers and estimators have deep experience working directly for architects, project owners, and construction firms, giving us a unique understanding of how design decisions, community context, budgets, and market conditions intersect. We maintain up-to-date cost intelligence across the sectors we serve, so our guidance reflects current realities, not outdated assumptions.

A cost model is an early-stage, data-driven projection of construction cost prepared during pre-design or conceptual planning, when limited information is available. It uses high-level inputs, such as building program, space types, system assumptions, and site considerations, to help owners evaluate feasibility and make informed decisions before design is fully developed.   A cost estimate is prepared later in the design process, typically at schematic design (SD), design development (DD), and construction documents (CD). A cost estimate reflects progressively greater detail and refinement as the design advances.

Yes. Under CM-at-risk, cost management includes estimate review and reconciliation with the construction manager at each design phase. In design-bid-build, this reconciliation step is typically not required.

As early as possible. We routinely develop accurate cost models from limited information, often starting with a basic building program by space type and early conversations with the architect to establish assumptions for building envelope, MEP systems, and sitework.

Target Value Design (TVD) is a collaborative approach that aligns project scope, design decisions, and budget from the earliest stages. Rather than designing first and pricing later, the team establishes budget guardrails early to guide design decisions as they evolve. When project teams stay aligned, TVD is proven to reduce redesign and late-stage budget surprises.

Often, yes. If an RFP or RFQ includes a reasonable level of programming and scope information, we can use historical data and our sector-specific experience to help design teams assess whether a proposed budget is feasible.

Palacio Collaborative is headquartered in Atlanta, with offices in Charlotte, Durham, Greenville, Austin, and New Orleans. We provide construction cost management and cost estimating services nationwide, supporting projects across Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Louisiana, and beyond. Our regional teams collaborate seamlessly to deliver consistent, market-informed cost guidance, whether a project is local, regional, or national in scope.