Hello! This is Episode 309, and in it, I want to discuss a risk that is super common for anyone who is building or renovating. And it’s the risk of repeatedly experiencing the inability to make a decision. Otherwise what we call ‘analysis paralysis’. I call this a ‘YOU’ RISK, and it can be crippling in any project. Not only for you, as the person experiencing the inability to make a decision. But also for those around you and anyone who is impacted by your analysis paralysis.  [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/309] This can be your partner, your team, but also any friends or family members you regularly discuss your project with, and spend time with you going over and over the things you’re weighing up. As a reminder: YOU is one of my five factors that I believe threads through every decision and step in your project journey. The other four are COST, TIME, TEAM and DESIGN. When you’re spending this much money, and making choices that will impact your health, finances and lifestyle long-term, it can of course feel incredibly challenging to know whether you’re making the right choice.  And for some, that can mean they stall, go over and over (and over) their decisions, and struggle to make a commitment to any choice.  This can be hugely stressful to experience. I find many get really annoyed and frustrated with themselves. They recognise their inability to make the decisions they need to, but they just can’t seem to take the necessary steps forward in their project.  And meanwhile, they know that time is ticking and money is potentially slipping through their fingers. There’s this logical recognition of what’s going on, but that doesn’t mean the decisions come any more easily. And more stress and pressure from those around them can simply make matters worse. (Cue couple arguments, big time!) So, let’s talk about the YOU RISK of analysis paralysis, or the risk of repeatedly experiencing the inability to make a decision in your project. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/309. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/309 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 308, and in it, I want to discuss a Design Risk I see that creates problems for you from the get-go, in terms of how your project begins, and then the way that the design process progresses overall. This is a DESIGN RISK that can mean you waste time and money in any design process. At its worst, it can mean you end up with the wrong home - a home that doesn’t suit you, your site, your budget or your lifestyle. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/308] As a reminder: DESIGN is one of my five factors that I believe threads through every decision and step in your project journey. The other four are COST, TIME, TEAM and YOU. It’s understandable to be super excited and want to dive into the design process, and get things going asap. Often, by the time you’ve selected your preferred design professional or company to work with, you’ve been thinking about your project, and imagining your future home, for a LONG time.  But, if you don’t take the time to create an effective design brief before you begin, you can waste a lot of time, money and effort in your design process.  And you can miss huge opportunities and benefits in the design process and the outcome in your future home that come from thinking about yourself, your lifestyle and what you need to best support it. So, let’s talk about the DESIGN RISK of not creating a thorough, personal and effective design brief, so you can get this right before you begin any design work on your future home. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/308. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/308 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 307, and in it, I’m going to be talking about a common and problematic risk when it comes to finding and working with your project team, be it your architect, designer, town planner, builder or other professional. This is a TEAM RISK that can actually derail projects, and cause a lot of stress and extra expense. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/307] Team is one of my five factors that threads through every decision and step in your project journey. The other four are COST, TIME, DESIGN and YOU. Renovating and building really is a team sport. And teamwork does make the dream work.  But believe it or not, you can get into trouble if you rely on your team too heavily, and look to them to have all the answers.  “But Amelia”, I hear you say … “Isn’t that the very reason I hire them? So that I can rely on them, and they can provide all the answers in my project?” Well, perhaps.  But you don’t want to do it without managing your risk first. And unfortunately, it’s because people don’t manage their risk upfront that their team can get them into so much trouble. We’ll talk more about that in this episode. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/307. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/307 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 306, and in it, I’m going to be talking about a significant and influential project risk when it comes to finalising things with your chosen builder and moving into construction. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/306] This project risk I’ll be talking about is based on one of my five factors that impact every step and every decision in your project journey. What are those five factors? Well, they’re: COST, TIME, TEAM, DESIGN and YOU. In this episode, I’ll be sharing a major TIME RISK that can have a significant impact, and sometimes be truly devastating when building or renovating. Because if you don’t handle this well, you can be legally bound to a working relationship with your builder that can be financially challenging to navigate and super stressful, be the cause of budget and time blowouts, and be difficult and expensive to terminate. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/306. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/306 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 305, and in it, I’m going to be talking about a significant and influential project risk I want to bring to your attention as someone planning, designing, building or renovating your future home. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/305] This project risk I’ll be talking about is based on one of my five factors that impact every step and every decision in your project journey. What are those five factors? Well, they’re: COST, TIME, TEAM, DESIGN and YOU. In this episode, I’ll be sharing a major COST RISK I see play out for people navigating their project. This is part of a new series of content I’ll be bringing to Undercover Architect generally, which I’ll explain more about as we dive into this episode.  Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/305. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/305 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is episode 304, and this is Part 2 of my conversation with Jenna Cohen from Honeycomb Access and Design. In Part 2 of my conversation, we jump straight into my question about Performance Solutions, which will be an approval pathway to familiarise yourself with in your project. This episode is part of a special series on the National Construction Code, and NCC 2022. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/304] If you haven’t listened to Part 1 of the conversation, head back to Episode 303 and catch up, as this will make much more sense if you do! You can find that episode and a free downloadable transcript at www.undercoverarchitect.com/303. We start the episode with my question to Jenna about Performance Solutions.  It’s great to hear Jenna’s take on this process, and what she’s specifically seeing in how her clients are needing support and help in their projects with Performance Solutions. She also shares some specific examples related to these Livable Housing updates to NCC2022.  Plus Jenna will also share what she believes are the no-brainer inclusions when designing your home so it can support you long term, and be adaptable and flexible to your changing needs over time. Really great suggestions for anyone planning their renovation or new build. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/304. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/304. Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is episode 303, and in it, I’m talking with Jenna Cohen, director of Honeycomb Access and Design. In this first part of my conversation with Jenna, you’ll learn more about the updates to the National Construction Code 2022 when it comes to accessible design and the Livable Housing Guidelines. This episode is part of a special series on the National Construction Code, and NCC 2022. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/303] If you’re curious about what the changes are in regards to accessible design and Livable Housing Guidelines, I discussed these in more detail in Episode 286 at the beginning of this series on the NCC2022. In the conversations I’ve had with homeowners, I’ve heard frustration at these latest changes: that it feels like these are a bunch of requirements that aren’t relevant for them in their personal home.  However, it’s worth understanding upfront that “Livable” and “Accessible” are not one and the same, and these latest updates are not for accessibility specifically. However, they will help your home be more functional for varying physical abilities over the long-term.  Listen in, as Jenna will help you understand more about what to consider in your future home for compliance and longevity, and we discuss what to be aware of. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/303. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/303. Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 302, and in it, I want to share with you the top five most downloaded 2023 podcast episodes on Undercover Architect’s podcast. There’s some great and varied topics in this top 5, and I’m really interested to see just how varied they are, and what you’re enjoying listening to. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/302] I’d kind of expected that there’d be a theme to the top listened episodes this past year, but there’s not at all! And interestingly it highlights just how varied the content is that’s been published on the podcast this year.  This is the 38th episode I’m publishing for the year, and we’ve had everything from green roofs, to magnesium oxide board and low carbon concrete, to tips when working with a volume builder or owner building, through to builders’ margins and of course, the updates to the National Construction Code. There’s so much to learn from - and that’s just the 2023 episodes. In total, there’s over 300 episodes, and we’ve just celebrated the 7th birthday of this podcast. Woohoo! So, in this episode, I’ll share some summaries of the info provided in these episodes so, if you’ve listened, you can be reminded about the main info in them.  Or, if you haven’t listened, you’ll be able to get the top points, and then I’ll include the links in the resources if you’d like to listen to any of the full episodes later. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/302. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/302 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 301, and in it, I’m going to share with you what is being discussed in architecture for 2024. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/301] As with any industry, there are loads of conversations that happen behind closed doors and, as someone who might be planning to build or renovate, it can be so useful to gain some insight into what’s being discussed, prioritised and cared about inside the industry, to see its potential impact on your plans and project. A lot of my conversation here will be a recap on the discussions and presentations that happened during the 2023 National Conference for the Australian Institute of Architects, held in early October, 2023 in Canberra. It was a really interesting time, and having attended these conferences since the late 1990s, I’m amazed to see how much the industry is shifting and changing, so I’ll talk a bit about that too. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/301 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 300, and I have a lot to celebrate. So, in this episode, I’ll be catching you up on what’s been going on at UA HQ.   [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/300] We’re taking a small break in our series on the National Construction Code updates so I can celebrate reaching this milestone of 300 episodes with you, and bring you up to speed on some of the latest news in Undercover Architect and for me personally. I can’t promise that it’ll be a logical flow of conversation, or much about building or renovating. There’s a bunch of things I want to chat with you about - so let’s see how it goes! Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/300. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you.   Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/300 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is episode 299, and it’s Part 2 of my conversation with Brian Guinan from I-Smart Building Group. Brian Guinan is a Passive House builder and the director of I-Smart Building Group, a residential building company based in Western Australia delivering high performance homes. This episode is part of a special series on the National Construction Code, and NCC 2022. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/299] If you haven’t tuned in for Part 1 yet, head back to Episode 298 first so you can hear the first half of my conversation with Brian. You can access that at www.undercoverarchitect.com/298. In Part 2 of my conversation, Brian shares some great detail about how he’s streamlined the delivery of his Passive House and high performance homes, especially in the challenging and predominantly volume-built construction industry in Western Australia. He also shares his views on the National Construction Code 2022 changes, and his suggestions for homeowners to navigate this well. And we discuss the Sustainable Builders Alliance, of which Brian is a founding member. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/299. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/299. Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is episode 298, and in it, I’m talking with Brian Guinan from I-Smart Building Group. Brian Guinan is a builder and the director of I-Smart Building Group, a company delivering High performance custom residential homes with a heavy focus on PassivHaus. This episode is part of a special series on the National Construction Code, and NCC 2022. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/298] In this first part of my conversation with Brian, we learn more about his background, how he became an industry leader in sustainable building, how he got involved in Builders Declare and now Sustainable Builders Alliance. And he also talks through how he specifically achieves high performance building outcomes in an efficient and fast-tracked way. We also discuss the whole ‘passive solar vs passive house’ conversation that can happen in the sustainable sector of the industry. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/298. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/298. Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 297, and in it, I’m continuing my conversation with Jessica Allen from Climasure, and we’re discussing what a WUFI Analysis, and why it’s worth knowing about for your future build or reno! This episode is part of a special series on the National Construction Code, and NCC 2022. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/297] If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, be sure to head to Episode 296, where you’ll hear Jessica discuss air tightness, and give a detailed run down of what blower door tests are, how they work, and how you can use them in assessing the air tightness of your home whether building new or renovating.  You can also download a free PDF transcript of Part 1 by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/296. In this episode, Jessica will discuss more tools that can be used as an ‘as built verification’ process during your build, so you can confirm during construction that your home is being built as per your design intentions and specifications.  She’ll also share some other helpful tips to help manage risk of condensation, and improve your build quality overall. And Jess will also share insights about the updates to the NCC2022 and what she’s seeing in the industry as those she’s consulting to understand these latest changes. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/297. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/297 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is episode 296, and in it, I’m talking with Jessica Allen from Climasure, about air tightness, blower door tests and what you need to know for your construction process.   This episode is part of a special series on the National Construction Code, and NCC 2022.   [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/291] Climasure is a team of design and construct professionals who have a strong desire to ensure that Australian building stock is created with the correct knowledge, detailing and construction technique informing decisions to produce healthy buildings and peace of mind. Jessica is passionate about: air tightness, condensation management, correctly detailing buildings, and as-built verification opportunities to ensure you’re getting the right outcome on site.  Across this and the next episode, she’ll be helping us understand more about how you can achieve this in your new build or renovation project.  Jess is fantastic at providing actionable information that will empower you to structure your team and your project progress so you set yourself up for success when creating a well performing home. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/296. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/296. Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is episode 295, and in it, I’m continuing my conversation with Jeremy Spencer, builder, thermal performance assessor and co-owner at Positive Footprints. This is Part 3 of my interview with Jeremy.  This episode is part of a special series on the National Construction Code, and NCC 2022. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/295] If you haven’t listened to Part 1, head back to Episode 293, and have a listen to it, or download the free PDF transcript. You can find it at www.undercoverarchitect.com/293. And if you haven’t listened to Part 2, then head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/294 to learn all about the ‘Whole of Home’ Rating Scheme and what you need to know to achieve 7 stars. Jeremy steps us through it in a lot of detail. In this episode, you’ll learn about how the size of your home may impact your star rating, and what to know in this regard.  We’ll also look at related changes in the code regarding thermal bridging, underslab insulation, and ventilation.  Jeremy will also share with us some exciting news about the new venture he and the founding members of Builders Declare have been working on, and also what’s happening with Design Matters’ True Zero Carbon Challenge as well. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/295. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/295 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is episode 294, and in it, I’m continuing my conversation with Jeremy Spencer, builder, thermal performance assessor and co-owner at Positive Footprints. This is Part 2 of my interview with Jeremy. This episode is part of a special series on the National Construction Code, and NCC 2022. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/294] If you haven’t listened to Part 1, head back to Episode 293, and have a listen to it, or download the free PDF transcript. You can find it at www.undercoverarchitect.com/293. In this episode, Jeremy takes us through, in amazing detail, what you need to understand and work with to achieve the seven star Whole of Home house rating. He literally steps us through, sharing an incredible wealth of information that will be super helpful for you. We also discuss how these NCC2022 upgrades can best be achieved when working with your professional team, and how this may change from what’s been done in the past. Having your team working together the right way will be essential for achieving compliance in the most simple and streamlined way. And, Jeremy also talks about the risks for builders, who are then responsible for ensuring this gets built in a compliant way, and they don’t make problems for themselves and their clients through a lack of knowledge or poor execution. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/294.  You’ll hear Jeremy get you to imagine a pie chart made up of various components in this episode, and I’ve got a visual of that pie chart he’s created available for you to see online or in the transcript, so head to that link for more information. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/294 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is episode 293, and in it, I’m talking with Jeremy Spencer, builder, thermal performance assessor and co-owner at Positive Footprints. This episode is part of a special series on the National Construction Code, and NCC 2022. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/293] Long time listeners to the podcast will remember Jeremy’s previous appearance on Episode 232 and 233, where he talked about low carbon and zero carbon homes, as well as his work in Positive Footprints (and more broadly across the industry) to educate and improve knowledge and execution in this area. He’s back in this series on the National Construction Code to help us understand more about the upgrades in NCC2022, the new seven star rating, what will impact you achieving it, and in particular the introduction of a ‘Whole of Home’ scheme for energy performance. My conversation with Jeremy will run over this and the next two episodes, as he shares so much wisdom, detail and actionable information.  It’s seriously useful knowledge for anyone who is building or renovating, and especially for anyone needing to know more about achieving seven stars, and the Whole of Home rating system. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/293. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/293 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is episode 292, and in it, I’m continuing my conversation with Jesse Clarke, Innovation and R & D Manager at Pro Clima. This episode is part of a special series on the National Construction Code, and NCC 2022. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/292] If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, be sure to head to Episode 291, where you’ll hear Jesse provide a really great foundational understanding of building science and moisture management in our homes, and what to be aware of. You can also download a free PDF transcript by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/291. In this episode, Jesse talks about the NCC2022 updates and his thoughts on them, and what he thinks is missing and you should be aware of to ensure you don’t create those unintended consequences! We’ll learn more about how to detail roofs and walls, and why you can’t rely on your external cladding to make your home weather resistive.  Plus you’ll get some great tips on how to discuss this with your team, especially your builder, and you’ll learn key things to do in your project to ensure your building system works for your climate and its humidity. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/292. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/292 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is episode 291, and in it, I’m talking with Jesse Clarke, Innovation and R & D Manager at Pro Clima. This episode is part of a special series on the National Construction Code, and NCC 2022. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/291] Pro Clima operates across the globe in more than 40 countries, and enables healthy living conditions by protecting building structures from external and internal moisture damage.  Their extensive range of high-performance weathertightness and airtightness systems help to create draught-free, long lasting and low allergen emitting surroundings for families, schools and businesses. Jesse Clarke is a leader in the industry and has a wealth of experience and knowledge to share about building science, building condensation management, designing and building for your climate, and understanding building systems to enhance thermal performance and moisture management. Many of the NCC2022 updates relate to condensation management and how to create a healthy building.  You’ve heard me mention the ‘leaky building syndrome’ experienced in other locations around the world, such as UK, Canada and New Zealand, and that these NCC2022 updates are moving towards helping Australian buildings avoid the same fate.  You’ll hear Jesse talk about how we’re here, what we’ve done to create this challenge, and what opportunities there are for us to avoid future issues in our projects. And, Jesse does an amazing job of helping us understand more about the terminology and the building science of it all. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/291. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/291 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is episode 290, and in it, I’m continuing my conversation with Building Surveyor, Laura Terrnova, from Deemed to Perform Consulting. We’re discussing Performance Solutions: what they are, and how they’ll impact your project and approvals. This episode is part of a special series on the National Construction Code, and NCC 2022. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/290] If you haven’t listened to Part 1 of my conversation with Laura in Episode 289, be sure to do that first, as this one will make a lot more sense once you do. You can find that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/289 In this episode, we jump into the detail of Performance Solutions. Laura helps us understand more about what they mean, what might trigger the need for them, how you’ll need to go about acquiring them, and who will need to be involved. For anyone doing a custom project, it may be very difficult to do a fully Deemed to Satisfy approval process. And you may also seriously limit your design, material and construction options if you insist on following a fully Deemed to Satisfy pathway. So, understanding Performance Solutions will be super helpful for you to demystify what they are, and how to shape your project and project team to accommodate them. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/290. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/290 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is episode 289, and in it, I’m talking with Building Surveyor, Laura Terrnova, Director of Deemed to Perform Consulting about project compliance, building approvals and updates to the National Construction Code. This episode is part of a special series on the National Construction Code, and NCC 2022. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/289] Laura is a consultative Building Surveyor. What does this mean?  Well, you’ll hear more from Laura about this, but in short, Laura’s role on projects is to help homeowners navigate their building approvals more confidently and efficiently by understanding how their design and construction choices will impact their compliance with the National Construction Code. Building Surveyor is a Victorian term. In other locations, this role can be known as a Building Certifier.  In this episode, Laura will share what you need to know about this role, about achieving your building approvals, and especially how the latest updates to the National Construction Code need to be understood in the context of your project. And in the next episode, Laura will step us through the process of achieving Performance Solutions, something that will become more and more important to understand in building approval processes for projects. Laura is Victorian based, but what she shares is applicable throughout Australia, and we try to generalise the terminology where possible. This is super helpful information from someone who is helping homeowners navigate this every day in the role she performs on projects, and who has really had to dive into the weeds of the National Construction Code updates as well! Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/289. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/289 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is episode 288, and in it, I’m sharing Part 2 of my conversation with Building Biologist, Zara D’Cotta, from The Healthy Home.  This episode is part of a special series on the National Construction Code, and NCC 2022. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/288] If you haven’t listened to Part 1 of my conversation with Zara in Episode 287, head back there now to catch up, as this episode will make a lot more sense to you then! You can find it by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/287. Is mould and damp really that big a problem in our homes?  Well, we’re seeing growing awareness of just how much of a problem it can be. And the World Health Organisation has advised, in their latest Housing and Health Guidelines, that dampness and mould-related problems should be prevented or treated early as there is no safe level of exposure.  Gone are the days of timber frames sitting out in the elements getting drenched, and then them just getting clad and lined without drying out fully or inspecting to ensure that future problems won’t occur.  This is a risk the industry needs to manage proactively, and I’m actually really excited that you, as the homeowner, are able to hear ways that this can be done during design and construction, and what to particularly discuss with your builder on your project. Listen to this conversation as I talk more with Zara about the effects of household mould and damp, and design elements and material choices around the home that can have an impact on our health. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/288. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/288 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is episode 287. In it, I’m talking with Building Biologist, Zara D’Cotta, from The Healthy Home. She’s here to talk about healthy buildings and share her thoughts on how recent National Construction Code changes might affect how healthy our buildings are.  This episode is part of a special series on the National Construction Code, and NCC 2022. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/287] Australian homes have been described as “glorified tents” with construction techniques changing very little over decades. Our climate is considered ‘mild’ when compared to parts of the world that experience extreme heat or cold.  Consequently, many homes built in Australia are built without the climate in mind. And, as we’ve had rising energy efficiency standards demanding increased air tightness and insulation, it actually poses a risky issue in the health of our buildings, and the health of us living in them. We haven’t heard much about it in Australia, but increased air tightness, and a more-is-better approach to insulation, when used without a whole-of-home approach, has resulted in a rising number of mould problems and structural moisture damage to homes in the UK, US, Europe and our nearest neighbour New Zealand.  Coined ‘leaky building syndrome’, a lot has been done to improve building regulations in those locations.  The question is now: will Australia learn fast enough, and be able to avoid the issues experienced elsewhere? In my conversation with Zara, which is across this and the next episode, we talk about your home’s health, and what to know about its construction and design to ensure you don’t create a hazardous environment for yourself. And, Zara will also share her insights into the National Construction Code updates, and what to consider for great outcomes in your project. Whether you’re renovating or building new, this information will be super helpful for you. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/287. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/287 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 286. In it, I’m going to share some detail about the specific updates that have been made to the latest iteration of our National Construction Code in Australia. This episode is part of a special series on the National Construction Code, and NCC 2022. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/285] If you haven’t listened to my introductory episode for this series I’m doing on the National Construction Code, I’d encourage you to head back to the previous episode, Episode 285, and listen to it first. It will give you context to this episode, and this upcoming series that will be super helpful. In this episode, I’ll be sharing more on each of the updates made based on the parts of the National Construction Code that they impact. I admit, this may be dry listening for some, but it’s going to be super helpful to learn more about the terminology and the kinds of things the National Construction Code has taken into consideration for these latest updates.  It will also provide great context for the upcoming episodes where I’ll be speaking to our amazing guests on the various different topics these updates relate to. So I encourage you to stay tuned! Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/286. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/286 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 285. In it, I’m kicking off a series we’ll be running on the podcast over the next few months all about the National Construction Code. You’ll learn more about what it is, the updates and changes that have and continue to be made to it, and what you need to know about how it impacts your renovation or new build. This episode is part of a special series on the National Construction Code, and NCC 2022. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/285] The National Construction Code (or NCC) is Australia’s regulatory framework for building and renovating all kinds of projects, not just residential homes. It’s a performance-based code that sets out the minimum level of performance that buildings, building elements, and plumbing and drainage systems must meet in Australia.  I know we have lots of non Australian listeners to the podcast. So whilst the introductory episodes I’m doing on the NCC will be specific to Australia, there is SO much coming in this series that will be super helpful wherever you’re located. If you’re keen to know more about building for thermal comfort, with durability, longevity and home health in mind, this will be great information. So be sure to check out the upcoming episodes. The NCC is updated every 3 years, however the latest 2022 update is one of the biggest updates so far, and its adoption has been delayed until this year, and is occurring differently around the country.   So, in this episode, I’m going to share information about what the NCC is and how it works. I’ll also be sharing some of the updates made in our latest NCC2022. And I’ll take you through the information you’ll be hearing about in the upcoming episodes. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/285. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/285 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 284. In it, I want to share with you some learnings, some personal experience, and some insights into why your home is so cold. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/284] I’ll be discussing some of the key things to understand if you’re wanting to improve the comfort of your home when renovating, or ensure that your new home is built to provide a thermally comfortable environment. The World Health Organisation states that if your home is, on average, less than 18 degrees per day during Winter months, it’s a home that’s impacting your health and well-being detrimentally. And Australia is notorious for cold homes, with 4 out of 5 homes considered cold across the country. You can definitely change this as part of your renovation or new build project, so let’s learn more. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/284. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/284 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 283. In it, I’m going to discuss builders’ margins, what they are, what they should be, the difference between markups and margins, how much you should be told, and what this information all tells you when choosing a builder. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/283] This will be really useful for you if you’re frustrated that a builder isn’t telling you their margin, or if you are simply expecting it to be 10% and that’s it. It’s also going to be helpful in providing some great questions and opportunities for discussion with potential builders, so you can find out more about their business and how it operates. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/283. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/283 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 282. In it, I’m going to talk about getting a second opinion on your design, and whether it’s something you should consider in your project. I’ll share the main reasons I see homeowners seek them, and the mistakes to avoid in sourcing second opinions on your home design and project. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/282] And, I’ll also share some quick tips to help you audit your home design yourself. This will be super helpful if you’ve been trying to decide whether you need a second opinion on your home design or something else happening in your project, or if it’s going to be a useful thing to access at some point in your project journey. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/282. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/282 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 281, and in it, I’m continuing my conversation with Dylan Viviers, National Specification Manager from Holcim, all about low carbon concrete. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/281] If you haven’t listened to Part 1 of our conversation, be sure to head back to Episode 280 to catch up on that. You can find that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/280. This episode will make a lot more sense if you listen to Episode 280 first! In this episode, Dylan and I talk in more detail about the workability of ECOPact, and what to be aware of.  And I follow up with some questions you may have about using a concrete like this in your project, including for polished and burnished concrete applications, or using oxides to colour the concrete as well. If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/281. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/281 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 280, and in it, I’m talking with Dylan Viviers, National Specification Manager from Holcim, all about low carbon concrete. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/280] Concrete is one of those tricky materials as far as sustainability is concerned. It’s super durable and long-lasting, so from a longevity point of view, it’s a great performer, which can be an asset for sustainability. However, concrete has a high carbon footprint, largely due to its cement content, as you’ll hear more about in this episode. Even though cement only makes up 11% of the ingredients in concrete, it generates 80 - 90% of its carbon footprint. What’s super exciting about this conversation is that you’ll learn about how much a company like Holcim is doing to lower the carbon footprint of concrete with their ECOPact product. You’ll also learn how accessible it is for you, doing your renovation or new build project, to specify low carbon concrete for your project. That, in fact, it would be pretty pointless not to. Low carbon concrete is on its way to become the concrete we use all the time, which is amazing. If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/280. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/280   Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan   Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/   Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 279, and it’s the third episode of my series with Steve Marskell from Rescom Building Products about Magnesium Oxide Board. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/279] If you haven’t listened to Part 1 and Part 2 of my conversation with Steve, head back to Episode 277 and Episode 278. You’ll hear more about the benefits of Magnesium Oxide Board, and the various applications it can be used for. So be sure to check out those episodes. In this episode, Steve and I dive down the rabbit hole of the negative information you’ll find about Magnesium Oxide Board the minute you start researching it online.  This is so worth listening to, as it’ll arm you with some key information if you’re wanting to use Magnesium Oxide Board, but also want to ensure you’re getting the best outcome for your project, and choosing the best product and installation methods as well. If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/279. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/279 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 278, and in it, I’m continuing my conversation with Steve Marskell from Rescom Building Products. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/278] Rescom Building Products was founded in 2009, and today produces the world’s #1 ISO:8336 Certified High Performance Magnesia Cement Building Products. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 of my conversation with Steve, head back to Episode 277, where you’ll hear more about the benefits of Magnesium Oxide board, and what Steve and Rescom have done to develop the product since 2009 with their extensive testing and product development. In this episode, Steve and I will talk specifically about the applications of Magnesium Oxide board: where it can be used, how to use it, and what to consider in your specification of it. Magnesium Oxide Board is one of those products that keeps cropping up for me. And, in my research, I’ve definitely found that Magnesium Oxide Board products are not all equal, and it can be difficult to cut through all the information that’s online.  But when you do, it’s definitely a material worth reviewing, as its benefits are huge, and there’s lots of examples of it being used successfully around the world in a variety of different projects. For this episode, I’ll share in the resources a series of videos that Steve sent through to me. They’re on the Youtube channel called Maxkil that shares, amongst other things, information about products, techniques and working with board products, especially plasterboard. The videos are a series of clips from an unexpected visit they paid to the Rescom location, and will show you the products Steve discusses in this episode.  In my conversation with Steve in this episode, you’ll hear me refer to these videos, and a particular installation in Rescom’s facility that shows the natural finish of Rescom’s board. It’s got a beautiful green lustre to it, that I can see working exactly as it’s been installed, as finished cladding to a home. You’ll find that in Video 4 of the clips I’m sharing in the resources. If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/278. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/278 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 277, and in it, I’m talking with Steve Marskell from Rescom Building Products about Magnesium Oxide Board.  [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/277] Up front … and as you’ll hear across my conversation with Steve, you’ll learn that not all Magnesium Oxide Boards are the same. And so, knowing more about them, and understanding how to select and specify them, becomes super important. If you listened to my conversation with Joost Bakker in Episodes 266 and 267, you’ll have heard us discuss Magnesium Oxide Board.  You’ll have also heard us talk about Joost’s experience with Magnesium Oxide board, his extensive testing of it, especially through his fire testing and, as a result, he spoke about the Rescom product, and the fact it’s the only manufacturer he’ll source Magnesium Oxide board from. I’ve been getting LOADS of questions about Magnesium Oxide board, and how it compares to other board products homeowners use conventionally, especially fibre cement board externally, and plasterboard internally. I know that when you dive online to check out Magnesium Oxide board, it’s a rabbit hole of confusing and conflicting information that can make any homeowner - and frankly any industry professional - just think ‘too hard basket’, and head back to the more traditionally used materials. However, Magnesium Oxide board keeps getting brought up as a seriously amazing and viable alternative that has environmental, health, fire and durability credentials. But not all Magnesium Oxide boards and products are the same, and so, we’re going to dive into this rabbit hole and explore it in detail. Joost kindly put me in touch with Steve, and it’s great to be able to bring him onto the podcast to discuss more about Magnesium Oxide board and what Rescom does. Rescom Building Products Group was founded in 2009, and Rescom Cellulous Magnesia Cement Building Products have been used in homes and projects across New Zealand, America, Australia, UAE and Europe since 2010, withstanding some of the worst extreme weather events.  The properties of their patented formulation and compounds, along with the proper curing process, contributes to the strength and performance of their Magnesia Cement products that well exceed that of traditional FC sheet, plasterboard / drywall, and OSB or Oriented Strand Board. This is a detailed, in depth conversation into this product, and also the industry in general. Over this and the next couple of episodes, you’ll hear Steve discuss how much work Rescom have done to test and verify the performance of the product. If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/277. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/277 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 276. In it, I’m going to discuss your project team, and how to ensure you bring the right people on board. When renovating or building your home, your team really does make all the difference. They can make your project a total joy, or a total disaster.  [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/276] Just because someone gives themselves a job title, or has qualifications or a licence, unfortunately does not make them excellent at their job. And yet, there are so many awesome professionals in this industry, waiting to work closely with you, and ensure you have an enjoyable experience creating a home you’ll love living in. You may be surprised at what I share with you as the keys to finding good team members, so stay tuned as I take you through some questions to ask that I believe really make the difference in finding the right people. And, if you’re an industry professional, be it an architect, building designer, interior designer, builder, a consultant or a supplier, who enjoys the Undercover Architect podcast, then please listen to this episode as I’ve got a special message for you at the end. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/276. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/276 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 275, and in it, I’m going to be talking about Barndominiums. A barndominium is a type of residential structure that design-wise, combines the features of a barn and a condominium.  [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/275] This is a type of building that’s been around for a while, and is more popular as a name in the US than other locations. However lately, it’s been cropping up on my radar a lot more frequently, and in Australia too, so I thought I’d spend a little bit of time on the podcast sharing more about them, and what to be aware of. What is a Barndominium?  What it looks like is generally an open plan building with residential spaces in it, and also incorporating work spaces such as sheds, workrooms and the like. The aesthetic style will be barn-like in appearance, and have features such as exposed beams, metal roofs, and industrial-style finishes that are typically found in a barn.  There’s more to this though, which I’ll discuss in this podcast. So, let’s learn a bit more about Barndominiums, and what to be aware of when considering this approach for your project, whether renovating an existing barn or shed, or building a new home in this style. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/275 SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/275 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 274, and in it, I want to follow on from my last episode about the 3 challenges when working with a volume builder, and in this episode, share some key tips about how to get it right in a volume builder process. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/274] if you haven’t listened to my last episode, it’ll also be great info for you if you’re considering a volume builder for your project. It’s Episode 273. Now, working with a volume builder is very different to a custom design approach. But it doesn’t mean you have to endure a particular type of project experience, build a substandard home, or get locked out of being involved in seeing your home dreams become reality. Understanding the best way to work with a volume builder is great for improving your project experience, and helping you create a great home as well.  We have HOME Method members that have taken a volume builder approach in their project for a range of reasons, and being educated and informed has helped them make a big difference to the process, and their home. So, listen in, as I share some tips to help you if this is the approach you’re thinking of choosing for your new build. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/274. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/274 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 273, and in it, I’m going to talk about a part of the industry that dominates new building in Australia, and in many other parts of the world, and that’s Volume Builders. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/273] Known by a few names, Volume Builders are the part of the industry that offer you a start-to-finish process to deliver a new home, from visiting their displays, choosing one of their pre-designed versions off the plan, and selecting your finishes from their range of pre-selected options, to then seeing your home through its construction process. Also known as Spec builders, Project Home Builders, Off-the-Plan builders, they can vary in how they offer their product and services. They are usually seen as the least expensive way to build a new home, and the fall-back for many who feel it’s the only option they can afford, or when a custom home feels out of reach or too uncertain a process to navigate. However, they’re not always the least expensive way to build a new home. And there can be a lot of challenges with this method of building, especially if you’re seeking a particular kind of home and project experience.  In this episode, I’m going to cover the top 3 challenges I see homeowners experience when building a new home with a volume builder, that impact the home they create, and the project experience they have. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/273. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/273 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 272. In it, I’m going to answer a question I commonly receive from homeowners.  And this question is: I want to do my project as an Owner Builder. What do I need to be aware of with this? [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/272] Homeowners will have different reasons for thinking about being an Owner Builder for their reno or new build. However, there are some REALLY big risks to be aware of when becoming an Owner Builder, that many aren’t aware of at all, and can be quite naive about. And so, in this episode, I’m going to take you through ten specific risks I see happen for Owner Builders, so if you do choose this option, you can choose it with your eyes wide open, and fully informed of what you’re taking on.  Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/272. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/272 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 271, and in it, I’m talking with Anthea Maynard, who is the Dilapidation Manager and Senior Building Consultant at Melbourne-based consulting business, BSS Group. And we’re discussing Dilapidation Reports. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/271] Now, for many, the first time you hear of a Dilapidation Report can be when you see it as a condition of your Development Approval to commission one for the neighbouring properties around your home before you renovate or build. Or, you may be super concerned about a neighbour complaining that your project will potentially damage theirs.  Or, you may also suddenly see that YOUR neighbour is commencing a project, and they’ve done nothing to consult you, and you’re concerned about the potential damage it might cause to your property. This is where Dilapidation Reports come in.  So, I’m really looking forward to sharing this episode with you, and getting Anthea’s help to explain them further. If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/271. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/271 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 270. In it, I’m going to share 5 key points to know about your roof design.  If you’re getting ready for your renovation or new build, or you’re currently working on your floor plan design with an architect, building designer, draftsperson, directly with a builder, or you’re even designing your own home, this episode will be super helpful for you. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/270] And remember, whilst your home is lines on a page, it’s actually not too late to make changes that will fix it, improve it, and ensure it’s a great quality home that improves your lifestyle and makes the aspirations, effort, time and money you’re investing in it all worthwhile. I’ll be taking you through 5 key points to consider when it comes to your roof design and construction, and to be discussing with your team. And the earlier you can discuss this, the better, because as you’ll hear, your roof design is best considered early in your design process, in order to get it right. The roof design has the capacity to completely change the look of your home. And it also needs to be detailed and constructed so it sheds water appropriately, makes maintenance more straightforward for you, and doesn’t cause issues with condensation within the roof structure, keeping roof framing and insulation damp and riddled with mould. Many homeowners don’t really think about their ideal roof design. And they also don’t necessarily know how to describe it, the shape of it, or the specifications for it.  In this whole process, a lot is left to chance, with a lot of assumptions that a builder will appropriately detail and construct it. And yet, so many parts of the industry don’t appropriately detail and construct the roof, creating long term headaches, home degradation and financial issues for homeowners. If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, as well as loads of extra videos, links and photos, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/270. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/270 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 269. In it, I’m going to discuss a post I recently saw on Facebook that really had me shaking my head about what people are enduring when building and renovating their homes … and I want to help you NOT go through the same thing, so we’re going to talk about it. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/269] The post began: “I’m honestly so done with building. This is my first home and first building experience and I HATE it. I’ll never build again.” And then, at my last check, within 2 days of the original post there were over 100 comments of people in varying levels of agreement with this. Stories of delays in site starts, price rises even though builders promised there wouldn’t be, projects taking two years or more to complete. It went on and on and on. The author of this original post shared their own story, and I could understand why they never wanted to build again. They’d had promises made and broken, extensive time delays, issues with neighbours, and a raft of other challenges.  I didn’t blame them at all for never wanting to build again. I also wondered, if the construction experience had been like this, what was the quality of their home going to be like? And would their home cause them more headaches down the track as they discovered the shortcuts the builder had taken during the build. The whole thing was just heart-breaking. And of course, at this point, they’re well into the process, so changing the situation requires a considerable amount of effort and work. Over my 28+ year career as an architect, I’ve sat down across the table from so many builders, developers, designers and other industry professionals who’ve told me that, because the client doesn’t know better, won’t pay more, won’t be able to tell the difference, there’s no need for them to offer more or better. The inference being: whilst the consumer accepts whatever we’re dishing up, we’re not going to improve, enhance or add to what we’re doing.  This extended from conversations about choosing better, more durable materials, to including better design features, right through to improving the energy efficiency and sustainability of a project. So, one of the many reasons I started Undercover Architect was because I knew that the residential design and construction industry could and CAN do better for those it serves: you, the homeowner. But I knew that for YOU to know it could and can do better, you need to be educated about what “better” actually looks like. And so, my work and mission with Undercover Architect is based on this: if I teach you what the process of building and renovating a functional, well-designed, energy efficient, sustainable and good quality home looks like, you’ll then be better equipped to find the right people and processes to achieve that for yourself.  And through your education, you have the ability to demand better. And then the standard and professionalism of the industry is elevated overall, as it rises to deliver better to educated clients. Listen now to the episode to learn the 7 ways to navigate your project so you don’t get to the end saying “I hate it, I’ll never build again!” If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, as well as loads of extra videos, links and photos, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/269. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/269 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 268, and in it, I’m going to dive into 5 problems I commonly hear from those who are starting their renovation or new build project. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/268] If you’re listening to this podcast episode, and you’re dreaming about your future home but not sure when you’ll make your project formally happen … Or perhaps you’ve decided this year is going to be the year to get serious about bringing those future home dreams to life … Or maybe you’re already on the way, and either choosing your team, or already working with them … Then this episode will be helpful for you. I want to take you through the 5 problems I regularly hear about from homeowners when starting their renovation or new build.  However, before I jump in, I want to mention this: it’s worth understanding how differently the word ‘start’ can be defined for people in their project journey, and what ‘start’ actually represents.  Because, if you think you’re still dreaming about your project, BUT you’re listening to this podcast, then as far as I’m concerned, you’ve already started your project journey.  And it’s now a case of when you’ll turn this preparation and research into action, and take the necessary steps you need to. But many don’t think of their early investigations as ‘starting’. And so they waste a huge amount of effort, energy and time as a result. So, I’m going to help you be more efficient and productive in that regard. Because frankly, who has any time to waste and fluff around these days! You’re here: so you’ve already started your project. Even if you’re still dreaming up ideas, you’ve still started. So, I’m really glad that Undercover Architect can help you get it right. Don’t think you haven’t started just because you haven’t got serious about things, or spent any money. If you’re here listening. You’ve started. So get started well, avoid these common mistakes, and be productive with your time and resources so you don’t get misled. Listen now to the episode to learn the 5 problems to avoid when starting your renovation or new build. If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, as well as loads of extra videos, links and photos, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/268. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/268 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 267, and in it, I’m continuing my conversation with Joost Bakker, and learning more about his Future Food System, and approach to building and living without waste. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/267] If you haven’t listened to Episode 266 and Part 1 of this conversation, I recommend you head back and catch that episode first, as this episode will then make a LOT more sense! You can head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/266 to do that now. In this episode, we talk about the nuts and bolts of some of the materials and construction of Future Food System, particularly reviewing the floor and wall systems, and the choice of products and materials to meet Joost’s criteria of recyclability and biodegradability at end of life. And at the end of the conversation, Joost actually gives us a walk around of his own home to explain some of the design decisions he makes and suggests for your project (I’ve included that video in the resources for this podcast if you’d like to see it!) If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, as well as loads of extra videos, links and photos, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/267. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/267 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 266, and in it, I’m so SO so looking forward to bringing you my amazing guest, Joost Bakker. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/266] In this and the next episode, Joost generously shares with us his zero waste approach to his projects and work, and in particular, his latest project: Future Food System.  Future Food System was built as a temporary home in Melbourne’s Federation Square, with the goal of “reimagining the home as an ecosystem that provides shelter, energy and nourishment for its inhabitants.”  And as with well-functioning ecosystems, Future Food System was fully self-sufficient: producing its own energy, water and food, and managing, recycling and utilising its own waste, all within an urban environment on a very compact and well-designed, 2 bedroom, 89m2 footprint. Joost shared the journey of construction openly, and once the building was completed, Chefs Matt Stone and Jo Barrett lived on site. And once COVID restrictions eased, they held tours and served meals to guests in an intimate setting.  The project was an amazing demonstration of what is possible in residential living and lifestyle with the Future Food System approach. I can’t wait to share this conversation with you, as you’ll hear more about Joost’s work, his philosophies and views, and his incredible wealth of knowledge about how we can build and live differently, that’s been established over decades of creativity, research, experimentation, testing and validation. If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, as well as loads of extra videos, links and photos, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/266. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/266 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 265, and in it, I’m talking with architect, Emilio Fuscaldo of Nest Architects, about Green Roofs and all electric homes. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/265] If you haven’t listened to Episode 264, that was Part 1 of my conversation with Emilio, where we discussed the green roof he did on his own home.  Emilio shared a lot of information about the design, materials, construction and detailing of that green roof, so it’s worth listening to if you haven’t.  Just head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/264 for more information. In this episode, Emilio continues to share some learnings from that very first green roof he did on his own home. And, we also get to talk about a more recent project he’s completed for clients in Melbourne, Victoria.  They also included a green roof in their renovation and extension.  Plus, they decided to do an all electric home, focussing on air tightness, various methods of heating and cooling and specific strategies to save energy overall.  It’s a great run through of a recent project and how effective certain design decisions were in improving their home overall. If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/265. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/265 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 264, and in it, I’m talking with architect, Emilio Fuscaldo of Nest Architects, about Green Roofs. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/264] Over the years, I’ve had lots of members of the UA Community ask me about green roofs, and so, when I went hunting for someone I could bring to the podcast to discuss this topic, one specific architect’s name kept coming up: Emilio Fuscaldo. Emilio is a Melbourne based architect with his own practice that’s been running now for around 17 years. And in 2011, he designed a new 80m2 home for his partner and himself that included a fantastic green roof.  Being his own home, Emilio was able to establish a great understanding of the building and maintaining the green roof, and also collect a lot of information on what it was like to live with the benefits of a green roof and its impact on the thermal performance and lifestyle in the home. Traditionally green roofs are something we’ve seen in commercial projects or in overseas work, and anytime I’ve tried one, it’s involved concrete, and lots of structure and high end detailing.  Emilio’s example is a different approach, and if you’re keen to include a green roof on your home, I know this will be a fantastic conversation for you to hear, as Emilio breaks down all the details for us in how he designed and constructed this for his home. In this episode, you’ll hear Emilio talk about his green roof being an Extensive green roof.  You can also get Intensive and Semi-Intensive green roofs, which will have a deeper profile, support a more significant type of planting such as food gardens, or heavily planted areas and is often what people think about when hearing about green roofs. Extensive green roofs are shallower in profile and support a particular type of planting, which you’ll hear Emilio talk about. If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, as well as loads of photographs of the green roof under construction and completed, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/264 Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/264 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 263, and in it, I’m continuing my conversation with Melanie Lupis from Sustainability Certified about how to design and build an energy efficient, zero carbon home. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/263] This is Part 2 of my conversation. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, you can find it in Episode 262. Just head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/262 to listen now or download the free PDF transcript. As we continue the conversation in this episode, Melanie shares with me her thoughts on NatHERS and Passive House. Being certified to assess with both modelling tools, she has great perspective to share on them both. We also talk about the True Zero Carbon Challenge that Design Matters National ran in 2022, and Melanie entered with building designer, Lachy McEwan, from Harmonic Design.  The aim of the True Zero Carbon Challenge was to design a home that not only produces more power than it uses over the year; through energy-efficient design, careful appliance selection, and photovoltaic integration.  Entries also had to consider and calculate embodied carbon in material selection, and to put on enough extra photovoltaic panels to pay back the home's entire carbon debt by 2050* (based on today’s carbon intensity). Thermal Performance Assessors or Energy Efficiency Assessors, as they’re also known, paired up with Building Designers and Architects to create a home design and assess its energy efficiency and carbon footprint.  At the time of recording this episode, Melanie and Lachy had submitted their entry, and were waiting to hear the results.  Well, I’m super excited to share that they were declared the NSW State Winners - isn’t that fantastic!  You’ll hear Melanie talk more in detail about how she and Lachy worked together to design and assess the home in preparation for entering, and what insights it gave her for all home designs. I think you’ll find it really interesting. If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/263 Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/263 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 262, and in it, I’m speaking with Melanie Lupis, from Sustainability Certified about the Residential Efficiency Scorecard for existing homes. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/262] Melanie is a NatHERS Accredited Assessor, Passive House Certified Consultant and Residential Scorecard Accredited Assessor.  She owns her own business, Sustainability Certified, and is passionate about helping homeowners and designers achieve more sustainable, energy efficient and thermally comfortable outcomes in their designs and finished homes. In this episode, Melanie talks with us about the Residential Efficiency Scorecard Assessment process - or Scorecard, and her work as an Residential Scorecard accredited assessor. What is Scorecard? Scorecard is a national energy efficiency rating program for existing homes, the first of its kind in Australia. Scorecard rates your home's energy efficiency and comfort.  Getting a Scorecard rating from a government-accredited assessor will help you make the best choices by providing targeted information to ensure that any money you spend on upgrades will lead to a cheaper to run, more comfortable home.  The rating is like an Energy Star rating like you would see on a dishwasher or washing machine, and the more stars, the cheaper the home is to run.  The Scorecard assessment reviews the building shell, including glazing, insulation, building materials, air leakage and then also examines your appliances, heating and cooling systems, hot water heating, any pool equipment and solar panels.  If you’re wanting to improve your existing home either before you renovate, or as part of your renovation, and you’re keen to access more information about what to focus on specifically, this episode will be super helpful for you. And if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/262 Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/262 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 261, and in it, I’m speaking with a dear friend of Undercover Architect, Sarah Lebner. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/261] In this conversation, Sarah shares some fantastic information about sustainable retrofitting and renovating, and how you can dramatically improve the performance and comfort of your existing home without a huge expense.  Plus, she also shares some specific tips to consider when renovating or building. This is part 2 of my conversation with Sarah. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 already, then head back to Episode 260, or www.undercoverarchitect.com/260 where you can check that out.  And if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/261 Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/261 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 260, and in it, I’m speaking with a dear friend of Undercover Architect, Sarah Lebner (formally of Light House Architecture and Science, and now Cooee Architecture). [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/260] If you’re a long time listener of the podcast, you may remember Sarah Lebner from my conversation with her, and Jenny Edwards, from Light House Architecture + Science. It was one of our most downloaded episodes that year, and I’ll pop a link in the resources if you haven’t listened to it yet. Sarah has recently moved home with her family, and moved on from Light House Architecture and Science, and has new adventures to share with us. And, in true Sarah-style, she’s also got loads of clever wisdom and experience to share that will benefit your project.  This is a great conversation over this episode and the next, and especially for those of you who are wanting to create a sustainable home, or are building or renovating in a regional location, or simply want some actionable and practical advice for your project. And if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/260 Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/260 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 259, and in it, I’ll be continuing my conversation with Kate Cotter, CEO and Founder of the Bushfire Building Council of Australia - which has recently been rebranded as the Resilient Building Council. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/259] With floods, fires, cyclones and general weather events subjecting our homes to more and more extreme conditions, many homeowners are talking with me about their desire to create a climate resilient renovation or new build. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 of my conversation with Kate, head back to Episode 258 to listen to that now. You can grab the transcript, or listen to our conversation by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/258.  In that episode, Kate introduces us to Fortis, a range of homes that were created with extensive community consultation, and experienced and expert collaboration, to help homeowners who are building or rebuilding after bushfire or other events such as floods and cyclones, or building in areas that can experience those events.  It’s worth a listen to hear the core principles Fortis was created with, that can translate to any project to create a more resilient home. In Part 2, we continue our conversation about Fortis, plus we talk about some other really amazing projects that Kate is working on with her awesome team. And if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/259 Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/259 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 258, and in it, I’ll be talking with Kate Cotter, CEO and Founder of the Bushfire Building Council of Australia - which has recently been rebranded to the Resilient Building Council. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/258] If you’re building or renovating in an area where bushfire, flooding, cyclones or any other extreme climate event can occur, or you simply want to renovate or build in a more climate resilient way, this episode is going to be super helpful. I’m really excited about sharing this episode and the next with you, as it will not only give you a framework of principles to consider in creating a more resilient home. You’ll also learn about Fortis homes, which can give you a great headstart in your project too.  And if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/258 Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/258 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! Before I jump into this episode, I want to let you know about a free workshop I’ll be running in early November, 2022. So if you’re listening to this around its time of release, be sure to save your spot.  In my free online workshop, I’ll be taking you through the 4 universal factors that will make or break your project. You’ll learn what these universal factors are, how to avoid them derailing your project, and to use them to your advantage instead. It’ll be super helpful information for you whether you’re planning to build or renovate.  You can choose from a lunchtime or an evening session, and I’ll also be sending out a replay. Head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/register to register your details, and I’d love to see you there. And now, let me get on with the episode! This is episode 256 and in it, I’ll be sharing 7 criteria or checks to consider when choosing building materials and products for your future home.  [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/256] I’m often getting asked about specific building materials, products and brands. In the world of building and renovating, it can feel like there is A LOT to choose from.  And what I see homeowners often find, as they dive into their projects and work with professionals, is that - as a homeowner - you’re often only seeing a small percentage of what is actually available.  Professionals have knowledge about brands and products, and access to businesses, that can be difficult for homeowners to be aware of or be able to directly deal with. So the options can open up even further for you, as you move along your project journey with your team. As someone in the industry, staying up to date with the latest materials and products, and the legislation that applies to them, can take up a lot of time. I spend a lot of time looking for, researching and finding out about products. And often my HOME Method members are also asking about items and products as well that can guide my research when I have specific questions. In fact, many of the guests we’ve had on the podcast are because we’ve been discussing those products inside HOME Method! Listen to the episode to learn more. Remember, if you want to grab a full, free downloadable PDF transcript of this episode, with links to the other resources we discuss, you can access that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/256 Now, let’s dive in. If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/256 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program, HOME Method >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! Before I jump into this episode, I want to let you know about a free workshop I’ll be running in early November, 2022. So if you’re listening to this around its time of release, be sure to save your spot.  In my free online workshop, I’ll be taking you through the 4 universal factors that will make or break your project. You’ll learn what these universal factors are, how to avoid them derailing your project, and to use them to your advantage instead. It’ll be super helpful information for you whether you’re planning to build or renovate.  You can choose from a lunchtime or an evening session, and I’ll also be sending out a replay. Head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/register to register your details, and I’d love to see you there. And now, let me get on with the episode! This is episode 255, and in it, I’m going to talk through some loves of mine when it comes to home design, and some of the trends we’re seeing as well. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/255] With each of my loves, I’ll be sharing what to consider and key tips to remember if exploring them for your future home. Most of what I teach here at Undercover Architect is focussed on timeless, functional design. To me, design isn’t prescriptive, and it isn’t about how something looks. Design is about how something works.  Design that can be flexible and adapt to the changing needs of your family as you live in the home, and adapt to the future owners who’ll come to live in your home in the decades ahead. Homes that suit you now, and over the long-term.  And homes that feel fantastic to live in, because they’re thermally comfortable, energy efficient, full of lovely natural light and ventilation, and there’s a sense of order and calmness about them, which helps you feel relaxed and at peace. Where there’s space to be together and to be apart, and a great connection with the outdoors that optimises the natural environment - even in the most urban of areas. That to me, is the design to aim for. Designing for sustainability, enoughness, for sufficiency, for durability and a long-term view.  And then inside that framework, you can inject what is relevant and special to you. The spaces and things you love. The design styles and trends that you resonate with, and you feel authentically reflect you. The things you know you have always loved and been attracted to. The things that have meaning to you. So, what are my loves when it comes to home design? And what are some of the trends you should be aware of? Listen to the episode to learn more. Remember, if you want to grab a full, free downloadable PDF transcript of this episode, with links to the other resources we discuss, you can access that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/255 Now, let’s dive in. If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you.   Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan   This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.    Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well.   LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW.   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/255   Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan   Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program, HOME Method >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello!  This is the third and last episode in a special series of mini-sodes I’m doing to help you avoid the mistakes I see many make when choosing, starting and working with a designer during their home renovation or new build.  If you haven’t listened to the first episode about the mistakes many make when choosing their designer, and the second episode about the mistakes many make when starting with their designer, then check out those episodes.  In this mini-sode, I’m going to share the mistakes I see clients make as they continue working with their designer for the weeks and months it can take to create a design. You can also download a free PDF transcript of this and the other two mini-sodes that are part of this series by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/designer. You’ll also be able to access some additional resources and helpful links for your project and team that I’ve included there. Plus, I’m hosting a free live online workshop later this month. In it, I’ll be sharing the 4 factors that can make or break your project. This free workshop is a fantastic way to learn about the key things to focus on that will help you make your project a success, and the home you create one that works for you and your family.  So, if you’re listening to this podcast at or near it’s time of release, then be sure to head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/workshop to join me, and learn loads to help you get it right in your reno or new home. I’d love to see you there. Let’s dive in. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, plus a full transcript of this as well as the other two mini-sodes that are part of this series, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/designer Join me for my free online workshop “4 Factors to Make or Break Your Project” happening November 2022 >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/workshop Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello!  This is the second episode in a special series of mini-sodes I’m doing to help you avoid the mistakes I see many make when choosing, starting and working with a designer during their home renovation or new build.  If you haven’t listened to the first episode about the mistakes many make when choosing their designer, then check out that episode.  In this mini-sode, I’m going to share the mistakes I see clients make as they start their relationship with their designer, and what happens when you don’t start your design process well. Be sure to download a free PDF transcript of this and the other two mini-sodes that are part of this series by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/designer. You’ll also be able to access some additional resources and helpful links for your home design that I’ve included there. Plus, I’m hosting a free live online workshop in early November. In it, I’ll be sharing the 4 factors that can make or break your project. This free workshop is a fantastic way to learn about the key things to focus on that will help you make your project a success, and the home you create one that works for you and your family.  So, if you’re listening to this podcast at or near its time of release, then be sure to head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/workshop to join me, and learn loads to help you get it right in your reno or new home. I’d love to see you there. Let’s dive in. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, plus a full transcript of this as well as the other two mini-sodes that are part of this series, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/designer Join me for my free online workshop “4 Factors to Make or Break Your Project” happening November 2022 >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/workshop Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello!  This is a special series of mini-sodes I’m doing to help you avoid the mistakes I see many make with designers and architects during their home renovation or new build. It could be an architect, building designer or interior designer. I don’t consider draftspeople designers, but this information will also apply to working with them as well. In this first mini-sode, I’ll be talking about the first mistake you can make with your designer or architect, and that’s how you choose your designer. Be sure to download a free PDF transcript of this and the other two mini-sodes that are part of this series by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/designer. You’ll also be able to access some additional resources and helpful links for your home design that I’ve included there. Plus, I’m hosting a free live online workshop in early November. In it, I’ll be sharing the 4 factors that can make or break your project. This free workshop is a fantastic way to learn about the key things to focus on that will help you make your project a success, and the home you create one that works for you and your family.  So, if you’re listening to this podcast at or near its time of release, then be sure to head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/workshop to join me, and learn loads to help you get it right in your reno or new home. I’d love to see you there. Let’s dive in. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, plus a full transcript of this as well as the other two mini-sodes that are part of this series, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/designer Join me for my free online workshop “4 Factors to Make or Break Your Project” happening November 2022 >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/workshop Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 254, and in it, I’m going to discuss something I get asked about A LOT. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/254] Anytime I mention that I don’t agree with locating your sink in your island bench, I get a lot of people asking me ‘why’.  And so in this episode, I’ll be going through the various reasons I believe that you shouldn’t locate your sink in your island bench when designing your kitchen. I’ll also take you through lots of ‘what if’ scenarios people then share with me as they try to nut this out for their own design. As in ‘what if I only include a smaller sink in my island bench’. I’ll dig into that and a few more as well. I’ve got 6 main reasons to not include a sink in your island bench. And 5 what-ifs you may be thinking about. Remember, if you want to grab a full, free downloadable PDF transcript of this episode, with links to the other resources we discuss, you can access that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/254 Now, let’s dive in. If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST:For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/254 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program, HOME Method >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is episode 253, and in it, I’m going to be talking about what some call the ‘5th elevation’ of a room: your ceilings. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/253] Often dealt with as an afterthought, or simply considered as a flat surface in which to install lighting, your ceilings offer a huge variety of options design-wise to change the feel and functionality of the spaces in your home. I’ve got 5 tips to share with you to think about when designing your ceilings.  And yes - your ceilings can and should be designed whilst you’re creating your floor plan, and thinking about the rooms and spaces of your future home. Whether you’re renovating or building new, these tips will be useful to review as you navigate your design process, whoever you’re working with. Remember, if you want to grab a full, free downloadable PDF transcript of this episode, with links to the other resources we discuss, you can access that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/253 Now, let’s dive in. If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/253 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program, HOME Method >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 252. In this episode, I’ll be talking about a question I receive a lot, and see get discussed in online forums as well. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/252] The question is along these lines: If you’re doing your long term, forever home, or have no idea if and when you’ll sell your home, how much should you take resale value into account? And should you include specific things in your design to improve the home’s resale ability or value?  Should you listen to your architect, designer, or builder and the suggestions they’re making about what adds value for resale if it’s something you don’t think you’ll want or need? And can you do a home that’s just for you, and not put your resale value at risk? I’m going to share my thoughts on this, plus give you some tips and action steps you can take to clarify this for yourself. Remember, if you want to grab a full, free downloadable PDF transcript of this episode, with links to the other resources we discuss, you can access that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/252 Now, let’s dive in. If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well.   LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/252 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 251, and in it, I’m continuing my conversation with Derek Layfield, Managing Director of Durra Panel. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/251] If you haven’t listened to part 1 of our conversation, you’ll find that in Episode 250. Head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/250 to listen now, or download the PDF transcript, and come back here when you’re all caught up! As a reminder, Durra Panel is a densely compressed straw building panel used in a huge range of projects globally.  Made in Australia, it’s an incredibly sustainable, durable, highly fire resistant building material that's also fully recyclable and biodegradable. In Part 2 of my conversation with Derek, we learn more about how to work with Durra Panel.  We talk more about the other finishes that Durra Panel is available in so it’s super functional in lots of applications, and also how to work with it, and how it compares to other products you might be familiar with.  If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/251. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/251 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 250 (WOOHOOO!!), and in it, I’m speaking with Derek Layfield, Managing Director of Durra Panel. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/250] If you’ve not heard of Durra Panel, this and the next episode are going to be fantastic for you, as we’re deep diving into what Durra Panel is, and how to use it in your renovation or new build. In short, though, Durra Panel is a densely compressed straw building panel used in a huge range of projects globally. Made in Australia, it’s an incredibly sustainable, durable, highly fire resistant building material that's also fully recyclable and biodegradable. I’m really excited to be bringing Derek onto the podcast for this and our next episode. So stay tuned, as we discuss all the ways you can work with Durra Panel, and what you need to know about it for your project. And if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/250. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/250 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 249, and in it, I’m continuing my conversation with Robert Duffield, who is a co-founder of Architopia. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/249] If you haven’t tuned into the last episode, and heard part 1 of this conversation, I’d encourage you to do so now - because then this one will make a lot more sense! You can find it by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/248 We start Part 2 of my conversation with Rob by discussing what you actually get in the drawing packages when you purchase online from Architopia.  Rob also has a special coupon code for Undercover Architect podcast listeners, so you can access a great saving on their Architopia packages. Keep listening for that. And if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/249 Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/249 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-methodSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 248, and in it, I’m speaking with Robert Duffield, who is a co-founder of Architopia.   [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/248]   What happens if you simply want to find a home design already done, and skip the design process, so you can be on site faster and in your finished home sooner?   That’s what the volume builders certainly offer. The option to choose a home design out of a catalogue, and shortcut a lot of the process of designing, documenting and the months, and sometimes even years, involved in bringing an idea to something that can be built.   But what if you want a home that is architecturally designed? Well, that’s where Architopia comes in.   Architopia is a business created by three co-founders who are passionate about making architecture more affordable, and giving access to ready made designs that can be purchased and built, wherever you are.    Plus, they’re designed with sustainability and sufficiency in mind.    I’ll be sharing my conversation with Rob over this, and the following episode, so be sure to stay tuned for that.   Rob also has a special coupon code for Undercover Architect podcast listeners, so you can access a great saving on their Architopia packages. I’ll share more on that in this episode.   And if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/248   Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you.   Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan   This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.    Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well.   LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/248   Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan   Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! It’s not too late to join me on my free online workshops this week, where I’ll be sharing the biggest and top 5 home design mistakes and how to avoid them.  If you’re listening to this episode at its time of release, then head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/designmistakes and save your free spot. I’d love to see you there. Now, let’s get on with the podcast. This is Episode 247.  Something I know from all the years I’ve been in this industry is this:  No one sets out to renovate and build their future home with this wish: “I want to create an ‘ok’ home.” Not once have I had that as a brief. Not once have I had a client come to me, when creating their long-term family home, and say “I only want an ‘ok’ home”.  And yet, all over the suburbs and streets, where people are building and renovating, unknown compromises are being made as people create homes that don’t function well, and don’t feel great.  Well, not as great as they could, with the same money spent on making different decisions. All the time I see people ending up with ‘ok’ homes because they don’t know what they don’t know.  And so, in this episode, I want to take you through three tips to avoid this in your project. So you can be better prepared to visualise and imagine what a functional and feel good home can really be for you. Remember, if you want to grab a full, free downloadable PDF transcript of this episode, with links to the other resources we discuss, you can access that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/247 Now, let’s dive in! If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/247 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! Before I jump into this episode, I want to let you know about a free workshop I’ll be running in early August, 2022. So if you’re listening to this around its time of release, be sure to save your spot.  This free online workshop is called “The Top 5 Home Design Mistakes (and how to avoid them)”. In it, I’ll be going through the biggest and most commonly made home design mistakes, and my tips and tactics for avoiding these in your project.   Whether you’re renovating or building new, and whoever you’re working with, you’ll find this free online workshop packed full of actionable help and info. Plus, you’ll get the chance to ask me questions too! Save your spot by heading to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/designmistakes And now, let me get on with the episode! This is episode 246, and in it, I’m going to be talking about a comment I REGULARLY receive on my social media, and a few months ago, it was even typed into the comments of a free online workshop I ran. It gets put in different ways, but the essence of it is this: You don’t need any of this information. Just find a good designer or architect. So, in this episode, I’m going to talk about this claim that some make, why I don’t think it’s that easy, why I find this attitude can be challenging for projects, and why some colleagues of mine have this so wrong. If you’re thinking a good designer or architect will be THE pathway to success in your project, a great experience and a fantastic home at the end of it, then this episode will be worth listening to. Remember, too, that you can download the free PDF transcript of this episode, with links to some other helpful resources I’ll be mentioning, by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/246. Now, let’s dive in! If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/246 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! Before I jump into this episode, I want to let you know about a free workshop I’ll be running in early August, 2022. So if you’re listening to this around its time of release, be sure to save your spot.  This free online workshop is called “The Top 5 Home Design Mistakes (and how to avoid them)”. In it, I’ll be going through the biggest and most commonly made home design mistakes, and my tips and tactics for avoiding these in your project.   Whether you’re renovating or building new, and whoever you’re working with, you’ll find this free online workshop packed full of actionable help and info. Plus, you’ll get the chance to ask me questions too! Save your spot by heading to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/designmistakes And now, let me get on with the episode! This is episode 245, and in it, I’m going to be discussing this podcast and one of the common questions I get about it, especially from homeowners who are considering what other support and education they need in their projects. This question I get is this: “Is the “Get it Right with Undercover Architect” podcast all I need for my project?” This particularly comes up for homeowners who are considering joining my flagship online program, HOME Method, and they’ll often get in touch to ask me: “How is the program different to the podcast? And if I listen to all of the podcast episodes, will I get what you teach in the program?” So, I’m going to take some time to share some information on this. If you’ve been considering whether you need further education and information for your project, you’ve been wondering whether joining one of my online courses, and particularly HOME Method, will be useful for you, then stay tuned. And if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/245 Now, let’s dive in! If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/245 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! Before I jump into this episode, I want to let you know about a free workshop I’ll be running in early August, 2022. So if you’re listening to this around its time of release, be sure to save your spot.  This free online workshop is called “The Top 5 Home Design Mistakes (and how to avoid them)”. In it, I’ll be going through the biggest and most commonly made home design mistakes, and my tips and tactics for avoiding this in your project.   Whether you’re renovating or building new, and whoever you’re working with, you’ll find this free online workshop packed full of actionable help and info.  Save your spot by heading to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/designmistakes And now, let me get on with the episode! This is episode 244, and in it, I’m going to share some home design ideas and choices I regularly see, that are actually pet hates of mine. Just because they really don’t work. I get pretty passionate about home designs that don’t work, hence calling these things ‘pet hates’! This will be a chance to hear about some choices I see regularly made in home design that, in my experience, fall short when achieving functionality, or a good outcome for the home and its use. With each, I’ll also make suggestions about what you can do as an alternative. And if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/244 Now, let’s dive in! If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/244 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 243, and in it, I’m going to be talking about what’s been happening over the past couple of months, especially since discussing enoughness on the podcast. Over the past few months on the podcast, I’ve been sharing content and people who are focussed on sustainable design, sustainable building materials and generally building less, but better. And over the past few months, I’ve also had some amazing conversations off the podcast, with podcast listeners, fellow professionals, and HOME Method members about what we’ve been talking about here.  In fact, my inbox has never received as many messages about the podcast content as it has over the past few months. Mostly positive. However, not all of it has been positive. Some of the content has been super challenging for some listeners. So, I want to talk about this in this episode, plus share some of the other things I’ve been learning over the past few months as I’ve been mulling over with how we have some bigger conversations here at Undercover Architect. This episode took a while to pull together. It’s tricky to formulate my thoughts on this, as they’re still a work in progress. So I hope you’ll be patient with me. Remember, you can grab a full transcript of this episode as a free downloadable PDF, with links to the resources I’ll be discussing, by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/243. Now, let’s dive in. If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/243 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 242, and in it, I continue my conversation with Joe D’Alo, builder and owner of The Hemp Building Co. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/242] If you haven’t listened to Part 1 of this interview, please head back to Episode 241, where you’ll hear Joe explain to us exactly what hemp and hempcrete are, the numerous benefits of it as a building material, and things you specifically need to know if you’re planning to build with it.  You can listen to that episode, or grab the full transcript by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/241 In this episode, Joe continues sharing more details about building with hempcrete. We talk about what to do if you want to clad it vs using a lime render, and other aesthetic choices depending on how you want it to look.  We also discuss cost, using it in bushfire prone areas, and if you’re curious about hemp insulation, we also discuss that in this episode. Remember too, that if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/242. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/242 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 241, and in it, I’m speaking with Joe D’Alo, builder and owner of The Hemp Building Co., which is based in Kyneton, Victoria. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/241] So often, I’m getting asked questions about building with hempcrete, and what are the essentials to know so you can confidently use it in your new home or renovation.  In my last episode (Episode 240), Hamish White from Sanctum Homes spoke to us about his current experience with hempcrete in a residential project he is working on, and we talked a little about the material and working with it. But I knew you would want to know more. I wanted to know more! So I reached out to Joe D’Alo, a builder with a huge wealth of experience, knowledge and passion for hemp, hempcrete and building with this fantastic material.  Over this episode and the next, Joe will take us on a deep dive into understanding more about this amazing plant, industry and building product, and help you with what you need to know to use it in your project. And if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/241 Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/241 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 240, and in it, I’m continuing my conversation with Hamish White from Sanctum Homes, a Melbourne-based building business specialising in passive house, sustainable and high performance homes. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/240] If you haven’t listened to the last episode, and heard Part 1 of my conversation with Hamish, be sure to check that out first. You can head to Episode 239 wherever you’re listening to this podcast, or go to www.undercoverarchitect.com/239 to access the episode and a free downloadable transcript. And then come back and join us here for Part 2! In this second part of my chat with Hamish, we talk more about sustainable building, and especially about building with Hempcrete. That’s actually where this episode kicks off, and Hamish has a lot of learnings to share in a project he’s building right now. We also go through some important must-haves in a sustainable build, particularly if you’re in a similar climate zone to where Sanctum Homes builds. And, we talk more about Builders Declare as well. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/240 Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/240 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 239, and in it, I’m speaking with Hamish White from Sanctum Homes, a Melbourne-based building business specialising in passive house, sustainable and high performance homes. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/239] If you’re considering a Passive House or you’re already designing one, or you simply want to know more about the non-negotiables in building a high performance, comfortable and sustainable home, you’ll find this episode really helpful. And, if you’re interested in building with Structural Insulated Panels, or SIPs, or you’ve been investigating Hempcrete as an alternative, then definitely stay tuned. Plus, you’ll also hear how powerful it can be to have a builder involved in the pre-construction phase, as Hamish talks through the way they make this work with their clients. I first came across Hamish and Sanctum Homes via social media, and specifically their instagram account. The posts do a great job of describing various building practices, and why Sanctum Homes use these in their homes, especially when seeking to achieve high performance, thermal comfort and long-term durability. Hamish and I struck up a conversation over social media over a shared goal to educate and increase sustainability in the built environment. It’s been awesome to see the work he and other builders are doing as part of Builders Declare. Also, earlier this year, Hamish joined Live Life Build’s group mastermind program, ELEVATE. So I’ve got to know him better there as he’s been learning what we share in how to improve projects and building businesses. I’m really looking forward to sharing this conversation, as Hamish shares a lot of detail about building for climate, building with SIPs and achieving great outcomes in your project, and in the relationship you have with your team. Just head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/239. Be sure to grab the PDF transcript so you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/239 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 238, and in it, I’m continuing my conversation with Jane Hilliard. Jane is the Founding Director and Head Designer at Tasmanian based design studio, Designful. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/238] This is Part 2 of my interview with Jane, so if you haven’t listened to Part 1, pause this episode, and head back to Episode 237. And you can find that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/237. In this episode, I continue talking with Jane, and we start by discussing how she helps clients stay on track with their initial design and lifestyle goals.  We also discuss the specific design strategies that Designful use to keep their homes compact, yet spacious and super functional. Plus, we talk about their accessible, pre-designed floor plans available through their business Homeful. Jane has some amazing and super actionable information to share in this episode, so I’m really looking forward to sharing it with you. And if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/238 Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/238 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 237, and in it, I’m speaking with Jane Hilliard. Jane is the Founding Director and Head Designer at Tasmanian based design studio, Designful.  [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/237] I’m so excited to be bringing Jane to the podcast, because she and her team have the most inspiring and fantastic way to consider and navigate your home design journey, wherever you’re located. I first came across Designful’s work last year, and since then, have been really enjoying the projects they create, and the ethos their work is founded on.  If you’re wanting to design, build and renovate a sustainable home that truly reflects you, supports your lifestyle and creates a haven for you and your family … and you’re curious about what that means for your design journey, I think this episode will be super helpful for you. I can’t wait for you to hear what Jane Hilliard from Designful has to share. Jane’s aim is to create change and lessen our impact on the planet through the built environment – it’s a challenging task! Jane strives to make good design available to more people whilst practising enoughness. Enoughness is about understanding what you need to live a healthy, happy and reciprocal life with those around you and our environment and not taking or using more than this. Her endeavours and passion for sustainability, integration, user well-being, affordable housing and buildability have created the foundations of what Designful provides. Just head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/237. Be sure to grab the PDF transcript so you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/237 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 236, and this is Part 3 of my conversation with James Cornell from Life Panels, and we discuss the topic of home insulation. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/236] If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, be sure to head back to Episode 234, where you’ll hear James discuss thermal performance and understanding the airtightness and breathability of your home. You can find it by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/234 And if you haven’t listened to Part 2, where we discussed moisture control, thermal mass and other means of overheating control, check out www.undercoverarchitect.com/235 In this episode, James wraps up his conversation with me by discussing insulation for acoustic and fire protection. We also talk about R-Values, and you’ll learn more about the specifics of the Wood Fibre products that Life Panels supplies. James Cornell has been an industry expert on the topic of construction and sustainability for over 20 years. As a licensed builder and master carpenter, and also as a Passive House Certified Consultant, he has become increasingly interested in sustainable construction and the use of materials in creating a better way to build and, ultimately, live.  He’s the founder of Life Panels, a company supplying sustainable and high performance wood fibre products to the Australian construction industry. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/236 Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/236 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 235, and this is Part 2 of my conversation with James Cornell from Life Panels. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/235] If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, be sure to head back to Episode 234, where you’ll hear James discuss thermal performance and understanding the airtightness and breathability of your home.  In this episode, James will continue sharing his wealth of knowledge on how to improve your home’s building envelope and create an energy efficient and thermally comfortable home through your selection of building materials for the floors, walls and roof of your home. We’re talking about thermal mass, and things such as relative humidity, and decrement delay. And if that sounds bamboozling - never fear - James will help us understand it much more simply.  Frankly, it’s awesome knowledge to have when discussing your home’s construction with your team, so you can ensure you’re getting the best outcome for your location and climate. James Cornell has been an industry expert on the topic of construction and sustainability for over 20 years. As a licensed builder and master carpenter, and also as a Passive House Certified Consultant, he has become increasingly interested in sustainable construction and the use of materials in creating a better way to build and, ultimately, live.  He’s also the founder and owner of Life Panels, a business that supplies sustainable wood fibre insulation and building systems for walls, roofs and floors of any residential projects. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/235 Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/235   Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 234, and in it, I’m kicking off a 3 part series of interviews with James Cornell from Life Panels, all about building healthier homes. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/234] James Cornell has been an industry expert on the topic of construction and sustainability for over 20 years. As a licensed builder and master carpenter, and also as a Passive House Certified Consultant, he has become increasingly interested in sustainable construction and the use of materials in creating a better way to build and, ultimately, live.  He’s also the founder and owner of Life Panels, a business that supplies sustainable wood fibre insulation and building systems for walls, roofs and floors of any residential projects. James has an amazing knack of demystifying the topics of building envelopes, building performance, and building science.  So, if you’re keen to understand more about how to create a home that’s energy efficient, durable and great quality as a thermally comfortable home, this will be perfect for you. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/234 Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/234 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 233, and in it, I continue my conversation with Jeremy Spencer from Positive Footprints.  [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/233] This is Part 2 of my conversation about creating a sustainable, energy efficient and Carbon Zero home.  If you haven’t heard Episode 232 and Part 1 of the conversation, be sure to pause now, and go back and listen to it. And then you can come back to this episode once you do. In this episode, Jeremy shares more information on how to choose a sustainable builder, and how to consider various choices in your home to radically improve its energy efficiency and performance overall. This episode kicks off with me jumping back to a point Jeremy made in Part 1, or Episode 232, about heat pump air conditioning.  With space conditioning comprising 43% of a home’s energy use, making an efficient selection for your air conditioning can make a huge difference overall. You’ll hear Jeremy explain really well how to make the best choice in this regard. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/233 Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/233 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 232, and in it, I bring you a fantastic conversation with Jeremy Spencer, sustainable builder, thermal assessor and director of Positive Footprints.  [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/232] Jeremy and I talk about sustainability and energy efficiency in home renovation and building, but in a way I’ve not discussed in detail on the podcast before. Jeremy and his wife, through their design-build Melbourne-based business, Positive Footprints, specialise in Carbon Zero homes. This is their term for a home that is not only Net Zero, but also low in embodied energy.  What’s all that mean? Well, we’ll be discussing this in more detail, but in short - it means you have a home that produces more energy than it uses AND is considerate of how much energy went into the creation of the products, materials, fixtures and finishes it is constructed from. Which is great for you and the planet. This is a fantastic conversation with super actionable information on how to consider energy efficiency, sustainability and your carbon footprint in your home design and build. And about how simple it can be to achieve a net zero home as well.  As well as being an educator and former GreenLiving lecturer in an earlier life, Jeremy is a founding member of Builders Declare, and currently sits on the Design Matters Board, the Sustainability Hub, and the NatHERS Stakeholder Consultative Group.  I know you’ll find what Jeremy has to share super helpful. I’ve broken our conversation into two episodes, so let’s dive into Part 1 now - and be sure to tune into the next podcast to hear part 2.  Just head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/232. Be sure to grab the PDF transcript so you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/232 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 231, and in it, I’ll be talking about what happens when you find mould in your home, how you should treat mould and what to do to remove mould from your home. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/231] I’m chatting to the amazing Alexx Stuart from Low Tox Life, who has a huge personal and professional knowledge and understanding of mould, and what happens when it’s in the home you live in, how it can impact you, and what you need to do to take care of it, and yourself. In this episode, I ask Alexx these questions: Why is mould something we need to be concerned about?  Is some mould worse than others? Can you have a 'little bit' of mould and it not be too harmful?  Apart from your home being inundated with flood waters, what other signs can there be that you may have mould in your home? What are the ways to get rid of mould from surfaces, soft furnishings, the building itself?  What are the methods of mould removal / mould treatment to totally avoid? Thinking about the urgency of treatment after inundation / storm damage / flooding etc. Lots of homeowners who are insured are having insurance companies tell them that they have to wait for the assessors before removing wall linings, etc, and now seeing mould growing on wall linings extending into the timber frame of a home. Is there a point where it's too hard to rectify / dry out / improve? My hope is, with this episode, and what you’ll specifically learn about mould and how it can impact you, is that it will empower you. Empower you to push back on a builder or an insurance company who tell you it’s not a big deal that you have mould in your home. Empower you to know how to properly deal with it, instead of using products or paying for services that may in fact feed it and make it worse. Empower you to dig deeper with your health practitioners if they’re dismissing your symptoms as nothing they can help with. And empower you to know how to resolve and improve problematic areas through a renovation project, or how to prevent issues in a new build, so that, in the future, mould can be easily dealt with and mitigated or eliminated altogether. Remember, you can grab a full transcript of this episode as a free PDF download. Plus I’ve got info about other helpful links and resources related to this topic.  Just head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/231. Be sure to grab the PDF transcript so you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/231 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 230, and in it, I’m going to be sharing one of Year 5’s most popular episodes and completing our celebration of 5 years of the “Get it Right” podcast. Back in Episode 219, I kicked off a 5th birthday celebration of the podcast, by rebooting some of the most popular and listened to episodes in each year of the podcast. And then I mixed that up with new episodes to share more information and updates on those specific topics.  It’s been great to receive messages from listeners who are hearing some of these older episodes for the first time, and also from those of you who’ve been here a while, but enjoyed revisiting the content I’ve shared and getting a refresher and reminder of what it covered. In the last episode, I shared info on whether now is the right time to build or renovate your home, and what you need to consider contractually to manage your risk in challenging times like these in our industry. If you haven’t listened to it, you can head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/229 to check it out or grab the free, downloadable transcript. In this episode, I’ll be rebooting a super popular episode from Season 13 of the podcast. That Season is called “Next Best Steps” and in each episode, I highlight the different stages of your project journey, and what the next best steps are to move forward confidently.  If you haven’t listened to Season 13, it’s worthwhile as an insight into key tips and strategies to assist you along your project journey. It even includes the next best steps if you’ve got a design you don’t love, or you’re stuck in your project in some way, and don’t know how to move forward. This episode I’m rebooting here was the last episode of that season, and it’s for those of you who have got your plans locked and loaded, and it’s now time to sign contracts with a builder and hit go. Many homeowners race urgently towards this point, enthusiastic to see construction commence and their dreaming, planning and designing becoming physically real on site. But, in that haste, you can turn a blind eye to red flags, and end up legally bound to a relationship and a process that can go really pear-shaped.  Homeowners can get it so wrong at this stage. From stress and frustration, right through to half finished homes and bankrupt builders, the stakes are high. It IS possible to enjoy this stage though, and to get yourself fully informed so you can be actively involved, and confident through your construction phase. Remember, you can grab a full transcript of this episode as a free PDF download. Plus I’ve got info about other helpful links and resources related to this topic.  Just head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/230. Be sure to grab the PDF transcript so you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/230 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is episode 229, and I thought it might be a good opportunity to answer a common question I’ve been getting a lot lately which is this: “With the way the industry is right now, with the price rises, and everyone so busy, is now the right time to do my project? Should I be starting my renovation or new build, or should I wait until things calm down a bit?” I don’t often do time-specific episodes here on the “Get it Right” podcast, as I like this information to be something that homeowners can get help from at any time.  However, we are in some pretty unusual times, and so I thought it might be helpful to discuss it here.  And as I’ve also been discussing HOME Method in the last couple of episodes, I thought that having this conversation with you about current scenarios and what to be aware of, will also give you a good insight into the types of conversations we get the opportunity to have in HOME Method.  Because that’s what happens in HOME Method, and especially happens during our regular Q & A sessions. I’m often sharing info on specific industry news, or things to be aware of, and knowledge I have from my network with members, and homeowners who are dealing with this in real time are also sharing with each other their own learnings and discoveries along their project journey. If you’d like to get a transcript of this episode to read, and refer back to later, remember you can download a free PDF transcript by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/229 Now, let’s dive in. If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/229 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is episode 228, and as with the last episode, I’ll be talking in more detail about HOME Method, the member community, the group support and covering some of the questions I’m frequently asked about the program. If you’ve been wanting to know more about HOME Method, and if it’s a fit for you and your project - then this will be a great episode for you.  And, this is a continuation of Episode 227, my last episode, where I covered what’s inside HOME Method. So if you haven’t listened to that yet, please check it out. If you’re curious about when is the right time to join HOME Method, or how easy or time consuming it is to navigate, then they’re some of the questions I’ll be answering in this episode. AND if you have NO interest in joining HOME Method, or perhaps you’re already a member of HOME Method, this episode will not necessarily be relevant for you.  Feel free to jump off and catch up on other episodes on the “Get it Right” podcast you may have missed. Or, you can even relisten to episodes - I know I do that every so often on my favourite podcasts, and it’s amazing how you hear different things the second time around. I’ve also got a full transcript available of this episode, which you can download by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/228 so head to that link to grab a free PDF that you can read and review later. And before I jump into this episode, if you haven’t already, and you’re listening to this episode at or near its time of release, then there’s still time to join me for a free online workshop I’m running on the 4 universal factors that will make or break your project.  In this live and free session, you’ll learn what these universal factors are, how to avoid them derailing your project, and to use them to your advantage instead. You can register and choose from a lunchtime or an evening session, and I’ll also be sending out a replay. Head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/workshop to register your details, and I’d love to see you there. Let’s dive in. If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/228 Join me for my free online workshop happening mid February, 2022 >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/workshop Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is episode 227, and let me tell you right up front that I’m going to be talking about my flagship program, HOME Method. So, if you’ve ever been curious about what’s inside HOME Method, or considering whether it’s the right program for you to get support and help as you build or renovate your home, this episode will be perfect, because I’ll be sharing info on what’s inside HOME Method, and what you’ll learn from it. If you have no idea what I’m talking about when I say “HOME Method”, but you’re planning to build or renovate your home, or you’ve already got your project planning underway, and you just wish you could get some step-by-step guidance, then stay tuned, as this may interest you. If you’re an existing HOME Method member - hello! And thank you for being here! I love love love working with the homeowners inside HOME Method, answering their questions, showing them the steps and seeing the amazing progress and results they create. It truly is an amazing bunch of homeowners and special and generous people I’m so fortunate to spend time with. If you’re NOT interested in HOME Method at all, then this episode won’t be for you … but there’s another 200 plus episodes on the “Get it Right” podcast that are super helpful, and jam packed with tips, strategies and insider info to improve your project experience, and your home. So, you definitely want to look through the back catalogue of podcasts to listen and relisten to the loads of free info there. So, now I’ve gone through who this episode is for, and who it is not for … if you’re sticking around, I’m looking forward to taking you behind the curtain. Or as a friend of mine says, “I’m going to open my kimono!” HOME Method went through a BIG revamp in late 2021, and so I want to share with you what’s inside, and who it really helps, so you can know if it’s a good fit for you or not. I’ve also got a full transcript available of this episode, which you can download by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/227 so head to that link to grab a free PDF that you can read and review later. And before I jump into this episode, if you haven’t already, and you’re listening to this episode at or near its time of release, then there’s still time to join me for a free online workshop I’m running on the 4 universal factors that will make or break your project. In this live and free session, you’ll learn what these universal factors are, how to avoid them derailing your project, and to use them to your advantage instead. You can register and choose from a lunchtime or an evening session, and I’ll also be sending out a replay. Head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/workshop to register your details, and I’d love to see you there. Let’s dive in. If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/227 Join me for my free online workshop happening mid February, 2022 >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/workshopSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is the fifth and last mini-sode in our super special series titled “Home Design: 5 Steps Before You Begin”. This mini-sode is called “COMMUNICATION”.    These short and super actionable episodes will help you with the 5 steps you need to take BEFORE you begin your home design.    Be sure to download a free PDF transcript of this and the other four mini-sodes that are part of this series by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/5steps. You’ll also be able to access some additional resources and helpful links for your home design that I’ve included there.   Plus, I’m hosting a free live online workshop later this month. In it, I’ll be sharing the 4 factors that can make or break your project. This free workshop is a fantastic way to learn about the key things to focus on that will help you make your project a success, and the home you create one that works for you and your family.    So, if you’re listening to this podcast at or near it’s time of release, then be sure to head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/workshop to join me, and learn loads to help you get it right in your reno or new home. I’d love to see you there.   Let’s dive in. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, plus a full transcript of this as well as the other four mini-sodes that are part of this series, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5steps   Join me for my free online workshop “4 Factors to Make or Break Your Project” happening February 2022 >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/workshop   Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is the fourth mini-sode in our super special series titled “Home Design: 5 Steps Before You Begin”. This mini-sode is called “CONNECTION”.    These short and super actionable episodes will help you with the 5 steps you need to take BEFORE you begin your home design.    Be sure to download a free PDF transcript of this and the other four mini-sodes that are part of this series by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/5steps. You’ll also be able to access some additional resources and helpful links for your home design that I’ve included there.   Plus, I’m hosting a free live online workshop later this month. In it, I’ll be sharing the 4 factors that can make or break your project. This free workshop is a fantastic way to learn about the key things to focus on that will help you make your project a success, and the home you create one that works for you and your family.    So, if you’re listening to this podcast at or near it’s time of release, then be sure to head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/workshop to join me, and learn loads to help you get it right in your reno or new home. I’d love to see you there.   Let’s dive in. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, plus a full transcript of this as well as the other four mini-sodes that are part of this series, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5steps   Join me for my free online workshop “4 Factors to Make or Break Your Project” happening February 2022 >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/workshop   Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is the third mini-sode in our super special series titled “Home Design: 5 Steps Before You Begin”. This mini-sode is called “CONDITIONS”.    These short and super actionable episodes will help you with the 5 steps you need to take BEFORE you begin your home design.    Be sure to download a free PDF transcript of this and the other four mini-sodes that are part of this series by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/5steps. You’ll also be able to access some additional resources and helpful links for your home design that I’ve included there.   Plus, I’m hosting a free live online workshop later this month. In it, I’ll be sharing the 4 factors that can make or break your project. This free workshop is a fantastic way to learn about the key things to focus on that will help you make your project a success, and the home you create one that works for you and your family.    So, if you’re listening to this podcast at or near it’s time of release, then be sure to head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/workshop to join me, and learn loads to help you get it right in your reno or new home. I’d love to see you there.   Let’s dive in. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, plus a full transcript of this as well as the other four mini-sodes that are part of this series, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5steps   Join me for my free online workshop “4 Factors to Make or Break Your Project” happening February 2022 >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/workshop   Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is the second mini-sode in our super special series titled “Home Design: 5 Steps Before You Begin”. This mini-sode is called “COLLECT”.    These short and super actionable episodes will help you with the 5 steps you need to take BEFORE you begin your home design.    Be sure to download a free PDF transcript of this and the other four mini-sodes that are part of this series by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/5steps. You’ll also be able to access some additional resources and helpful links for your home design that I’ve included there.   Plus, I’m hosting a free live online workshop later this month. In it, I’ll be sharing the 4 factors that can make or break your project. This free workshop is a fantastic way to learn about the key things to focus on that will help you make your project a success, and the home you create one that works for you and your family.    So, if you’re listening to this podcast at or near it’s time of release, then be sure to head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/workshop to join me, and learn loads to help you get it right in your reno or new home. I’d love to see you there.   Let’s dive in. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, plus a full transcript of this as well as the other four mini-sodes that are part of this series, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5steps   Join me for my free online workshop “4 Factors to Make or Break Your Project” happening February 2022 >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/workshop   Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is the first mini-sode in our super special series titled “Home Design: 5 Steps Before You Begin”. This mini-sode is called “CLARITY”.    These short and super actionable episodes will help you with the 5 steps you need to take BEFORE you begin your home design.    Be sure to download a free PDF transcript of this and the other four mini-sodes that are part of this series by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/5steps. You’ll also be able to access some additional resources and helpful links for your home design that I’ve included there.   Plus, I’m hosting a free live online workshop later this month. In it, I’ll be sharing the 4 factors that can make or break your project. This free workshop is a fantastic way to learn about the key things to focus on that will help you make your project a success, and the home you create one that works for you and your family.    So, if you’re listening to this podcast at or near it’s time of release, then be sure to head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/workshop to join me, and learn loads to help you get it right in your reno or new home. I’d love to see you there.   Let’s dive in. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, plus a full transcript of this as well as the other four mini-sodes that are part of this series, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5steps   Join me for my free online workshop “4 Factors to Make or Break Your Project” happening February 2022 >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/workshop Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 226, and in it, I’m going to be doing an update to one of Year 4’s most popular episodes and continuing our celebration of 5 years of the “Get it Right” podcast. In the last episode, I shared a reboot of the most popular episode from Year 4 of the podcast. It was from Season 11, which was called “Interior Design Basics”. And the episode was my interview with Karen Haller, who is a Colour Psychologist. It was a fantastic conversation all about how colour can enhance our lives in and beyond our homes, and our knowledge of colours, and how we respond to them, as a vehicle for creating environments that truly suit you and support you. If you haven’t listened to the reboot of that episode, it’s definitely worth checking it out. You can find it at www.undercoverarchitect.com/225 and there’s a free downloadable transcript available as well. In this episode, I’m going to be talking more about choosing colours for your home, and sharing some of my tips from doing this for hundreds and hundreds of homes over the years - including my own. You can grab a full transcript of this episode as a free PDF download. Plus I’ve also included links to resources I mention in this episode, and I’ve also got some images of some of the ideas and suggestions I discuss as well.  Just head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/226.  There’ll be lots of helpful links in this one, so be sure to grab the free download so you have them, and you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/226 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 225, and in it, I’m going to be sharing one of Year 4’s most popular episodes and continuing our celebration of 5 years of the “Get it Right” podcast. This episode was from Season 11 of the podcast, which was called “Interior Design Basics”. Interior Design Basics was an incredible season where I discussed a huge range of information to know about the design and selection of the fixtures, fittings and finishes for the interior of your home. It was focussed on how to create a functional, durable, family home.  I’m passionate about the fact that styling and trends are something that can trigger ideas, but they’re not what creates timeless design or long term functionality.  And so, in Season 11, through the know-how of a great range of guests, and in sharing my own knowledge, the episodes go beyond the idea of interior styling, and into the performance, specification and detailing of your interiors so you can create a home that will perform durably with the love you and your family give it on a daily basis! Of course, it’s not all about nuts and bolts info. Season 11 also helps with understanding how to create your design direction, and learning more about colour, finishes and textures in your home’s interior, and choosing interiors that reflect who you and your family actually are.  And this episode here reboots the most popular episode from that season. It’s when I brought Karen Haller onto the podcast to discuss Colour Psychology. Her book, “The Little Book of Colour” is such a fantastic exploration of this subject, and so actionable to help you create a home that authentically reflects you. It’s a brilliant conversation that really helps you embrace your OWN style and love of colour in an honest and empowering way. You can grab a full transcript of this episode as a free PDF download - which wasn’t available the first time I released it. Plus I’ve got info about other helpful links and resources related to this topic. Just head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/225. Be sure to grab the PDF transcript so you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/225 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 224, and in it, I’m going to be doing an update to one of Year 3’s most popular episodes and continuing our celebration of 5 years of the “Get it Right” podcast. In the last episode, I shared a reboot of the most popular episode from Year 3 of the podcast. It was from Season 10, which was called “Industry Insiders”. And the episode was my conversation with Jenny Edwards and Sarah Lebner from Light House Architecture + Science. In it, we dived into some fantastic and actionable information on how to create a sustainable home in a really pragmatic and straight-forward way. If you haven’t listened to the reboot of that episode, it’s definitely worth checking it out. You can find it at www.undercoverarchitect.com/223 and there’s a free downloadable transcript available as well. Year 3 of the podcast was a varied one, where we covered a huge range of topics. It began with the tail end of Season 8 on the podcast, which is called “A Simple Guide to a Sustainable Home”.   Season 9 was a special video and audio series called “Keeping it Real” where I dived into some of the commonly held beliefs about renovating and building, especially when it comes to reality TV and online media, and the mindset issues that I see surprise homeowners in their own projects.  And then Season 10, which was the Industry Insiders season, plus we snuck in a few episodes of Season 11, the Interior Design Basics Season. So many great episodes on such helpful topics and know-how for any project.  If you are new to the podcast and haven’t familiarised yourself with all of that content, I’d really encourage you to do so. You can find a full index of all our episodes by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast In this episode, I’m going to provide you with some updates on where the industry is at, and specific regulations and help that can support you in achieving greater sustainability in your future home. At the time of recording this episode, it’s late 2021, and there’s some significant changes coming to Australian regulations, and this is happening worldwide, as the urgency of industry change is ever more present. I also want to remind you, that whilst ‘sustainable’ may be interpreted as environmentally friendly, or ‘green’ in design and construction, it actually incorporates a lot more as a concept. So when you think about sustainability, think broadly about all things you can do to create a home that meets your current needs, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. Remember, you can grab a full transcript of this episode as a free PDF download. Just head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/224. I’ll be referring to lots of resources and links for you to check out in this episode, so you only need to remember this one >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/224 to be able to grab all the info you need for this episode. Now, let’s dive in! If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/224 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 223, and in it, I’m going to be sharing one of Year 3’s most popular episodes and continuing our celebration of 5 years of the “Get it Right” podcast. This episode was from Season 10 of the podcast, which was called “Industry Insiders”. Season 10 is a great season on the podcast, packed full of conversations I had with industry professionals from both Australia and the USA. If you haven’t listened to it, I’d encourage you to check it out. We had a fantastic range of guests with loads of expertise to share. This rebooted episode was Episode 4 of that Season, and it’s a conversation with Jenny Edwards and Sarah Lebner, from Light House Architecture + Science.  These incredible women are both passionate about great design, sustainable homes, and achieving both in an affordable and accessible way. And they’re both amazing in the advocacy and education work they do to assist homeowners and industry colleagues well beyond their client base. It’s a great conversation jam packed with actionable info. You can grab a full transcript of this episode as a free PDF download - which wasn’t available the first time I released it. Plus I’ve got info about other helpful links and resources related to this topic.  Just head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/223. Be sure to grab the PDF transcript so you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/223 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 222, and in it, I’m going to be doing an update to one of Year 2’s most popular episodes and continuing our celebration of 5 years of the “Get it Right” podcast. In this episode, I’ll be giving you some seriously actionable info that will not only help you stay sane during your reno or new build project - but it will also help you be a good project manager as well.  Many homeowners, when embarking on their project journey, don’t think of themselves as a Project Manager. However, renovating and building involves so many moving parts, steps, people and processes that, as the person or people funding it all and wanting it to happen, this is what you usually are: your own Project Manager. Part of being a good project manager is having the ability to stay organised, and lay your hands on information you need in a timely manner to keep things running smoothly. And then also having enough know-how so you can confidently navigate the steps ahead, and coordinate the people and processes you need to along the way. To help you do this, I’ve got ten tips on how to be a good project manager.  You can grab a full transcript of this episode as a free PDF download. Plus I’ve got info about other helpful links and resources related to this topic. Just head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/222. There’ll be lots of helpful links in this one, so be sure to grab the free download so you have them, and you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/222 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 221, and in it, I’m going to be sharing one of Year 2’s most popular episodes and continuing our celebration of 5 years of the “Get it Right” podcast. This episode was from Season 5 of the podcast, which was called “The Mistakes Many Make”. Here at Undercover Architect - on this podcast, on the blog, on social media and definitely inside my online courses and programs, I’m often sharing the mistakes many make.  My hope is that by sharing them with you, it will enable you to avoid them altogether. Or at the very least, be much more aware when you might be heading in that direction so you can course-correct quickly. So, that’s what Season 5 was about, and this episode was clearly a favourite. It was called “The most underestimated mistake when building or renovating your home.” You can grab a full transcript of this episode as a free PDF download - which wasn’t available the first time I released it. Plus I’ve got info about other helpful links and resources related to this topic.  Just head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/221. Be sure to grab the PDF transcript so you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. This episode will be about the Build phase, and the mistakes to avoid during this phase. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/221 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 220, and in it, I’m going to be providing an update to our last episode and continuing our celebration of 5 years of the “Get it Right” podcast. Our last episode was a reboot of not only the most popular episode of Year 1 of the podcast - it’s also the most popular episode in the entire podcast’s 5 years.  If you haven’t listened to that episode, be sure you do so by heading back to Episode 219. You can find it, and its full downloadable PDF transcript by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/219. That episode was called “Still the most important thing to know when designing your home”. In this episode, I want to bring you some current information about the way we create homes, and how this can impact the things to know when designing your home, plus give you some ways to order your decisions.  This is the thing about designing, building and renovating.  It involves a BOATLOAD of decisions, which can be overwhelming for many. And if you’re aiming for the perfect house, and think that making all the perfect decisions every step of the way will get you there, you may get really frustrated. So this episode is going to help you simplify your decisions, and give you the ability to get clarity in your decision-making process.  You can grab a full transcript of this episode, plus info about other helpful links and resources related to this topic, as a free PDF download by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/220. Be sure to head to the link and grab the PDF transcript so you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/220 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 219, and I’m back!! Thank you for joining me again after the break we’ve had. I’m really excited to be here and spending this time with you, and looking forward to some awesome episodes that we have coming up. This episode marks the beginning of my 5th birthday celebration for the “Get it Right” podcast. Can you believe it? The podcast is 5 years old! That’s right: As of the 6th of December, 2021, the podcast has been going for 5 years. In that time, we’ve published 219 episodes (including this one), it’s been listened to in over 190 countries, and it’s been downloaded almost 1.2 Million times.  So, for the next series of episodes, we’re going to be celebrating 5 years of the podcast by rebooting some of the old favourites, and interspersing them with great updates and extra information for you.  I know it’s going to be great to revisit some of the most listened to episodes, and also do that alongside adding some super helpful extra knowledge and resources for designing, building and renovating your home. In this episode, I’ll be sharing info on what is THE MOST downloaded episode from the entire 5 years of the podcast.  I actually love that this episode has been listened to so much, because this knowledge has the power to not only transform your home design and the experience of living in your home - but designing this way will also transform the impact our homes have on the planet too.  Remember too, you can grab a full transcript of this episode, plus info about other helpful links and resources related to this topic, as a free PDF download by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/219. You couldn’t do that the first time I published this episode, so be sure to head to the link and grab the PDF transcript so you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/219 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 218, and in it, I’m going to take a slightly different direction. This is very different to the episode I had originally planned for Episode 218. I was going to share a list of checklists every renovation or new build project needs - and don’t worry - I’ll still mention them so you have the info, so stay tuned for that in this episode. However, there’s a few things that have come up the past week that I want to share with you. Largely because I think it may actually be more relevant and more helpful to your project journey than me telling you about checklists.  However, this info is just a bit harder for me to talk about, because I’m going to get personal. It always feels a bit indulgent to spend this time with you talking about my own learnings and experience. But let’s give it a try, shall we?  Because time and time again, when I do, I get feedback that it’s helpful. And having worked with homeowners for over 25 years, I know that you’re often experiencing quite similar things both inside your project, and outside of it, so to bring these things into the light can also be helpful and validating too.  Of course, if you’re not interested, now is your opportunity to switch this podcast episode off! And as I said, I will mention the checklists also - I’ve got eight to talk about with you, that I’ll share at the end of this episode. You can also grab a full transcript of this episode, plus info about other helpful links and resources related to this topic, as a free PDF download by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/218.  Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. Is there such a thing as ‘your project mindset’?  And what role does mindset play in renovating and building your family home?  Want to learn more? Plus also hear about some specific checklists that will be useful for your reno or building project? LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/218 Watch the recording (if still available) of my free online workshop “The 4 Universal Factors that will make or break your project” >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/four Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode #217, and it’s the last of four episodes where I’ve been discussing in more detail the four phases of building or renovating your family home. In this episode, I’m talking about the Build Phase.  If you haven’t listened to the previous three episodes, I’d really encourage you to do so. In them, you’ll learn about the other three phases of any project, which are: Pre-Design Design Pre-Build … and you’ll learn the most commonly made mistakes in each of those phases. Effort and time spent in those three phases will enable you to have a smoother Build Phase overall.  So, even if you’re only listening to this because you’re about to start your Build Phase, it’s worthwhile going through those previous three episodes to ensure you’ve covered all your bases before diving into construction. Now, when you’re planning on renovating or building your future home, it’s natural to be really heavily focussed on the Build Phase. Because it can feel like that’s where all the action is, and many feel that’s where they’ll need the most help.  And yet, many approach the Build Phase of their project without a true understanding of what it should be like, how they can improve their experience, and the steps to take to avoid dramas and issues. They’re in a hurry to get here, and don’t do what’s required to get themselves suitably prepared. So, I’ll be sharing more about that, and the common mistakes to avoid. You'll also hear from a HOME Method member about their project experience as well, and how they found it to work with me during their renovation. And I’ll be reminding you about what is currently going on with HOME Method if it’s been on your radar to jump into for your project. Remember too, you can grab a full transcript of this episode, plus info about other helpful links and resources related to this topic, as a free PDF download by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/217. So be sure to do that so you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in!   SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you.   Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan   This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. This episode will be about the Build phase, and the mistakes to avoid during this phase. I have three key mistakes many make, and I’ll share what they are, the damage they can do, and how you can, and should, avoid them in your project.  I unfortunately receive lots of emails from homeowners who tell me they discovered Undercover Architect too late.  It’s very hard for me to help you avoid dramas when you’re already bound into a legal agreement via a building contract.  And so I’m keeping my fingers crossed that it’s not too late for you, and right now you’re listening to this podcast to get prepared before you sign a building contract. But even if you’ve already signed one - I think there’ll still be useful info in here for you. Tune into this episode, and learn more about the commonly made mistakes in the Build Phase that can make your project far more stressful than it needs to be. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/217 Get your name on the list for our free online workshop “The 4 Universal Factors that will make or break your project” >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/four Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode #216, and it’s the third of four episodes where I’ll be discussing in more detail the four phases of building or renovating your family home. In this episode, I’m talking about the Pre-Build Phase.  This is the phase between Design and Build, and for many, it’s a frustrating time of impatiently waiting for construction to start. Yet, it is the point at which so many things need to be confirmed, finalised and agreed upon, it’s important to navigate through it thoroughly and carefully. So, I’ll be sharing more about that, and the common mistakes to avoid. You'll also hear from a HOME Method member about their project experience as well, and how they found it to work with me during their renos or new build project. And I’ll be reminding you about what is currently going on with HOME Method if it’s been on your radar to jump into for your project. Remember too, you can grab a full transcript of this episode, plus info about other helpful links and resources related to this topic, as a free PDF download by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/216. So be sure to do that so you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. This episode will be about the Pre-Build phase, and the mistakes to avoid during this phase. I have three key mistakes many make, and I’ll share what they are, the damage they can do, and how you can, and should, avoid them in your project.  In the next episode, I’ll discuss the Build Phase. That will be the final of our four phases that any project goes through. I hope you’ve been finding it helpful to hear the mistakes to avoid in all of these phases, because I’m really aiming to provide you with some actionable advice you can use to steer clear of some drama and stress in your project! So, let’s dive into the third phase, Pre-Build.  This phase is an interesting one, because many homeowners really do race through this phase. For many, starting construction feels like the project is finally real and actually happening, and so there’s an urgency to get things happening on site as soon as possible. Yet, the thing about Pre-Build, is that there is loads in this phase associated with your money, legal issues and getting properly prepared for a smooth construction or build phase. And racing through this Pre-Build phase can result in some quite dangerous consequences, including cost blowouts, and legal issues that are expensive and difficult to get out of. The Pre-Build phase is actually the last chance you have to put the brakes on, and ensure that everything is in order, understood and clearly communicated between you and your team prior to starting construction on site. Tune into this episode, and learn more about the commonly made mistakes in the Pre-Build Phase that can make your project far more stressful than it needs to be. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/216 Get your name on the list for our free online workshop “The 4 Universal Factors that will make or break your project” >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/four Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode #215, and it’s the second of four episodes where I’m discussing in more detail the four phases of building or renovating your family home. If you haven’t listened to the most recent episode (Ep 214) about the mistakes to avoid during your Pre-Design phase, be sure to head back and catch up on that episode.  Even if you’ve already moved through the Pre-Design phase and are in the Design phase right now, the information in that episode will help you ensure you’ve got your ducks in a row, and haven’t missed something important. In this episode, I’ll be diving into some key Design Phase mistakes I see made by homeowners. Whether you’re working with an architect or building designer, or you’ve gone straight to a building company, or you’re designing your home yourself, these Design Phase mistakes will be relevant to you. So stay tuned. Remember too, you can grab a full transcript of this episode, plus info about other helpful links and resources related to this topic, as a free PDF download by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/215. So be sure to do that so you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES:If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. Now, to clarify - design as I’m talking about it here, is the act of creating the three dimensional spaces and rooms of your future home. And deciding on the volume, the experience, the feeling, and lifestyle that those spaces will create for you. It’s when ideas are sketched up as floor plans with more certainty, and it’s when the home’s exterior is also discussed and also drawn up.  Design as I’m talking about it here is NOT just the act of picking finishes and fixtures, and deciding on the colours for your rooms and home.  Design itself is really an exercise of problem solving.  The problem to be solved is usually about how to create a building that can cater to the needs, wishes and wants of your future lifestyle, balanced with ensuring it suits your site and climate, and meets your budget and construction requirements.  Those can sometimes feel like competing demands, but the process of design is about keeping these things in mind, as the right solution is realised for you. It’s an involved process that can have a lot of too-ing and fro-ing as ideas are explored and tested. It requires careful communication, as well as skill, creativity and experience.  And it takes the ability to imagine a future that doesn’t yet exist for your family, and order the priorities of what matters most to you, into something that can be physically built on your site, for the money you want to spend. This episode will be about the Design Phase, and the mistakes to avoid during this phase. I have three key mistakes many make, and I’ll share what they are, the damage they can do, and how you can, and should, avoid them in your project.  In the next episode, I’ll discuss the Pre-Build Phase. Then after that will be the fourth of our episodes, where we’ll cover the Build Phase.  So, let’s dive into the second phase, Design.  LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST:For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/215 Get your name on the list for our free online workshop “The 4 Universal Factors that will make or break your project” >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/four Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode #214, and it’s the first of four episodes where I’ll be discussing in more detail the four phases of building or renovating your family home. In this episode, I’m talking about Pre-Design, which is an essential stage to set the framework for your overall project journey, and ensure you have all your ducks in a row before you dive into designing your future home - whoever you’re working with. I’ll also be sharing some exciting news about my flagship program, the HOME Method. And, you’re going to hear from some members about their project experience as well, and how they found it to work with me during their renos or new build projects. Remember too, you can grab a full transcript of this episode, plus info about other helpful links and resources related to this topic, as a free PDF download by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/214. So be sure to do that so you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. This episode is about Pre-Design, and the mistakes to avoid during this phase. I have three key mistakes many make, and I’ll share what they are, the damage they can do, and how you can, and should, avoid them in your project.  Even if you’re past the Pre-Design phase, keep listening, so you can ensure you’ve covered your bases. When these mistakes are made early in your project, they can rear their head much later, so it’s important to ensure you’ve got them sorted as soon as possible. In the next episode, I’ll discuss the Design Phase. Then after that will be the Pre-Build Phase, followed by the fourth of our episodes, where we’ll cover the Build Phase.  I hope you’re looking forward to hearing the mistakes to avoid in all of these phases, because I’m really aiming to provide you with some actionable advice you can use to steer clear of some drama and stress in your project! So, let’s dive into the first phase, Pre-Design.  LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/214 Get your name on the list for our free online workshop “The 4 Universal Factors that will make or break your project” >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/four Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode #213, and in it, I’ll be helping you see how to review your construction drawings, and what to check as you look through them. Your construction drawings are a significant gateway to determine how you’re communicating the outcome you want on site in your renovation or new build, and the experience you want to have during that construction too.  Drawings with insufficient specifications and descriptions on them, will either mean you’ll get what the builder always does, they’ll assume a bunch of decisions on your behalf to keep construction going, or you’ll be receiving phonecalls every day. Inaccurate drawings, or poorly coordinated drawings, will mean confusion, mistakes and potentially extra spend on your behalf, as it becomes very difficult to establish what was in the contract and what wasn’t. So, to do a thorough review and know what to check prior to seeking your final price from your builder and getting the contract signed, will help you avoid dramas and mistakes on site. In addition, your construction drawings form part of your contract and legal arrangement with your builder. So you want to be sure they include all the things you’ve discussed, and been agonising over, as you’ve worked to develop and finalise your design. Now, if you haven’t listened to the LAST episode, where I talked about how to check your design drawings, be sure to do so. You can listen to it or download the PDF transcript by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/212. There really is no point reviewing your construction drawings when you’re still changing your mind about your design, or finalising your ideas and thoughts about how you want your home to be.  You’re much better served knowing that the design is locked in, and your construction drawing review is about ensuring all that thought and discussion has been translated into the package your new or renovated home will be constructed from. Remember too, you can grab a full transcript of THIS episode, plus info about other helpful links and resources related to this topic, as a free PDF download by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/213. So be sure to do that so you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. Your construction documentation will form part of your contract with your chosen builder.  They, along with any supporting documents such as specifications, are what your builder will use to finalise your contract sum, and refer back to when identifying variations. So, it’s essential that they include all your discussions, changes of mind, and particular details you want in your future home.  Many a homeowner has been caught out because they discussed something in a meeting, missed that it hadn’t been updated in the construction drawings, went to contract, and then discovered it wasn’t included in their build. Now, I’m not going to run through what my suggested list of drawings is to enable you to efficiently describe your future new home or renovation, and what you should seek to have included with your chosen design professional. I do have a sample set of documentation inside my online program, the HOME Method, to show my suggested set of drawings that balance budget, efficiency and control, so you can check out HOME Method if you’re keen to get more support in your project journey. However, in this podcast, I want to dive into your construction drawings, and how to assess whether they include what you need, and what checks to make. And in doing so, you’ll most likely get an inkling of some of the kinds of drawings that are worth including.    Again, as with the last episode, this won’t be an exhaustive list. I’m not going to talk about the various other consultant drawings you might need to include in your set, and how to review those as well. This will focus solely on the drawings created by your design professional or draftsperson.  However I’m hoping that, with what we go through in this episode, it will help you realise that checking your drawings is worthwhile and give you some pointers about what to check.  So when your designer sends you that package of drawings to look over, you’re not just doing a cursory glance and outsourcing all responsibility to them to ensure that they’ve included everything you’ve been discussing for the past several months. Hopefully, you actually realise it’s worthwhile to review them properly.  LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/213 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Learn more about AirWallex >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/saveSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode #212, and in it, I’m going to help you understand how to check your drawings during your Design Phase. And I’ll also be sharing how you can know that you’re getting the right amount and quality of information from whoever you’re working with, before you sign off your design and commit to it being fully documented in the next stage of your project. The Design Phase is a really important part of your project. Far too often, homeowners race through it, for a combination of reasons. However, it’s worthwhile taking your time in at this point in your project, so you avoid some really common mistakes that happen during the Design Phase. Remember too, you can grab a full transcript of this episode, plus info about other helpful links and resources related to this topic, as a free PDF download by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/212. So be sure to do that so you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. This isn’t an exhaustive list, however, I hope it gives you an indication of what you can and should be reviewing as your design is being presented to you. More important, I think, is that I hope you can see that, even though it’s the Design Phase, and it might still feel early in your project, it’s still a time to be having your home explained to you sufficiently so you can make informed decisions about whether the design is achieving your goals for your future home. And that, in understanding this, you’ll be able to choose a designer who will have a process and method for really describing your design to you.  They may be able to see it all in their head, but that’s pointless unless they can get it into a format that enables you to visualise what it will be like to live in once it’s built. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/212 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Learn more about AirWallex >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/saveSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode #211, and in it, I’m going to be talking about the design of your outdoor entertaining area or alfresco.  And specifically, I’ll be sharing what to consider when it comes to your roof design over this area, so it doesn’t diminish the feeling and functionality of the space, or the interior of the home. This is a question I get a lot from homeowners. Often it’s because they’ve lived in a home where their outdoor space, and how it was roofed, negatively impacted the way their home worked overall. And they don’t want to make the same mistake in their current renovation or new build project. For some locations, there can be a debate of whether you need or want to roof your outdoor entertaining or alfresco area, or if that roof needs to just be used at certain times of the year, and then disappear at others. So, we’re going to dive into all of this.  Plus, I’ll be also talking about the various things to consider if you have an existing alfresco area that you want to enclose, to grow your home’s space overall. You can grab a full transcript of this episode, the first part of this conversation, as a free PDF download by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/211, so be sure to do that so you can review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. First, let’s jump into the roofing of the outdoor room, whether it’s roofed at all, and the roofing design you’ll choose. How you design the roofing of your outdoor room will require you to understand some specific things that are unique to your site and the home you’re building or renovating. I’m going to run through these items one at a time, and give an explanation on why they can impact your decision making, and the design outcome for your outdoor room. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/211 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode #210, and in it, I’m continuing on from the last episode, where we’re answering the question: How do you know you don’t just need a draftsperson or building designer, but you should use an architect instead? And when should you definitely use an architect vs other industry professionals? Or when you can use a draftsperson, or even go straight to a builder? If you haven’t had the chance to listen to the previous episode, then stop now, and go back to listen to Part 1. You can then come back to this episode, and it’ll make more sense. It’ll be here waiting for you when you’re ready! Remember too, you can grab a full transcript of this episode, plus info about other helpful links and resources related to this topic, as a free PDF download by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/210. So be sure to do that so you can file that away and review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. When I speak to homeowners about this question of who they should use for their project, I know many would like a formulaic response that makes it really simple to know which professional you should choose.  And any time I see it asked in online forums as well, people will answer it like there’s a simple black and white process to choose.  However, with the years I’ve been in this industry, I just know that because the process of building and renovating, even in the smaller and partial projects, is such a personal one. And I also know that people value things differently, have different priorities and values, and so it’s not as simple as saying “if you’re doing project ‘x’, then you should choose professional ‘y’”. However, there is certainly a structure you can use to guide your decision-making.  Let’s look at some other ways of determining whether to use an architect, building designer, or draftsperson on your project - or even just going straight to a builder. And I’m going to dive right into the most common factor I see people often use to decide. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/210 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode #209, and in it, I’ll be answering a common question I hear from homeowners. How do you know you don’t just need a draftsperson or building designer, but you should use an architect instead? And when should you definitely use an architect vs other industry professionals? Or when you can use a draftsperson, or even go straight to a builder? Many homeowners want to know if there’s a way of narrowing down who they should work with based on the kind of project they’re planning. Or if their project will be considered too small or too big for specific types of design professionals. So, I’m going to be taking you through how to determine who to work with for your project, whatever you’re planning to do. You can grab a full transcript of this episode, the first part of this conversation, as a free PDF download by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/209, so be sure to do that so you can review this episode as needed. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. The question of who is best to work with on your project design is a really common one.  And my approach may be different to others you hear out there, largely because I have the benefit of knowing the huge variety of ways in which design professionals supply their services these days, and the widely varying ways you can work with them as a result. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/209 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 208. In this episode, we’re discussing the topic of roof colour, and more specifically, dark roof colours vs light roof colours, and whether your selection really matters to the energy efficiency and thermal comfort of your home. Roof colour is something I’m asked about a lot. Does it really matter, and how much does it matter?  For many of us who know what it’s like to get into a dark car after it’s been parked in the street in the sun, or wear a black t-shirt out in the sun during Summer, there’s a basic understanding that dark colours absorb more heat.  And so, I’m also often asked, “if you live in an area where your focus is keeping your home warm in Winter, then aren’t you better off having a dark roof?” This is why I’m really looking forward to you meeting my guest for this episode. He is architect Sid Thoo, and he is also an energy assessor. In all his work, he aims to help homeowners create eco-efficient, comfortable homes. Together, Sid and I are going to be discussing a lot of the common questions and assumptions that I hear homeowners share when selecting their roof colour. I’m also going to be telling you about a fantastic way to learn more about how to create an energy efficient home, so stay tuned for that too.  And remember, you can get info on the resources and links for this episode at https://undercoverarchitect.com/sid.  And because there is a bit of science in this episode, and it’s a meaty conversation, I thought it would be helpful to have a transcript to review and revisit. So, head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/sid to access that transcript now. Let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focusing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. In this episode #208, Sid and I discuss: How Sid got into his current type of work, focussing on eco-efficient home design, and adding energy assessment to his toolkit as an architect What NatHERS is, what it measures, and why we need to worry about it How your roof colour gets factored into your home’s energy assessment measurements What we need to know about roof colour and how it impacts our home’s energy efficiency What your specific climate will mean for your roof colour How roof colour needs to be considered if you’re planning on having solar panels on your roof top What to know about adding extra insulation to your roof to manage the thermal conditions of the home And, we also talk about an exciting collaboration we’ve done, where we take you Under the hood of NatHERS - and share key information that I know is going to be amazing for anyone wanting to improve the star rating of their future home, and understand more about the energy assessment process.  Listen now. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/sid Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 207. In this episode, you’ll learn from architect, Antony Martin of MRTN Architects, how you can think about the Pre-Design Phase of your project. Often when homeowners start their project, their priority is to think about the floor plan design, how it will get created, and who will help them. And, if you’re planning on working with a design professional such as an architect or building designer, you may expect that your very first steps with them are going to be seeing pen put to paper (or mouse to CAD program!) as floor plans of your future new home or renovation get created based on your wishes and wants. However, and you’ve probably heard me talk about this before - and it’s definitely something I teach inside my online courses and program, the HOME Method - getting your design started is nowhere near as important as starting the RIGHT design. When you take the time at the beginning of your project to ensure you’re starting the RIGHT design for your future home, you’ll find your whole project experience far simpler, and far more enjoyable.  You’re able to be more strategic about the time and money you’re investing in your project.  And, it’s a fantastic way to prevent ending up in a home that doesn’t suit you, or you outgrow, or it frustrates you on a daily basis. So, what to do before you design your home: Are you not sure about what to do in this pre-design phase?  Well, you’ll love this conversation with Antony Martin then. Because it’s going to clarify a lot of the kinds of things to consider, and how helpful this process can be for shaping your thinking, your design and your project journey. And remember, to access the resources and information mentioned in this episode, you can head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/207, as I’ve popped them all there for you.  So, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focusing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. In this episode, Antony and I discuss: Antony’s experience in the industry and how he came to start MRTN Architects How MRTN Architects have created the methodologies and processes they use in their work with clients Antony’s views on something I heard him say at the Architeam Conference, which was this: “Design is a speculation on a future outcome” and that “thorough understanding of the problem means we can create a truly long-term solution” Why MRTN Architects prize the Pre-Design phase so highly, and how they communicate this to clients when they first start working with them The three main aspects they explore during the Pre-Design Phase, and what they involve (Experience, Knowledge and Inspiration) What the main outcome is of starting a project this way Listen now. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/207 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 205. In this episode, we wrap up our little mini-series on the PAC Process, or Paid As Consultant Process, with a fantastic conversation I really think you’re going to enjoy. I’m speaking with Bec and Glenn, who recently completed a renovation of their Queenslander home in Brisbane, and used the PAC Process during their design phase. After working with me to create some initial design concept options, they worked with building designer, Aaron Wailes, who you met in Episode 203, and builder, Duayne Pearce, who was on our last episode. As a collaborative team, they developed their preferred design concept into costed construction drawings, kicked off the renovation on site, and then completed the home in early 2021. Bec and Glenn were also members of my online program, the HOME Method both before and during their project. I know it’s going to be great for you to hear their experience first-hand, and I’m super grateful for them jumping on the podcast, because it’s so valuable to get these types of insights. And remember, to access the resources and information mentioned in this episode, you can head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/205, as I’ve popped them all there for you.  So, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focusing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you.   Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. In this episode, Bec, Glenn and I discuss: Their home and project, and what they were hoping to achieve with their renovation  Why they chose to do a compact home, and the way they established their brief How and when they kicked off the PAC Process How they overcame concerns they had, plus how things changed for them from their initial ideas What really helped their project be enjoyable and go smoothly The things they love about the home, and what surprises them about it as well Plus LOADS of tips and helpful suggestions for your project! Listen now. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/205 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Get the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 204. In this episode, I am speaking with a builder who only uses the PAC Process in his residential construction business. He no longer does tenders and quotes, and will only work with clients right from the initiation of their project, so he can be Paid As a Consultant and get involved during the design phase. For him as the builder, the PAC Process is the best and only way to work with clients. Because he believes it improves the client experience, the project, and also the way he does business. I’m speaking about Duayne Pearce, and he was a guest in Season 4 of the podcast, and also my co-host for all of Season 7. He’s also a collaborator inside my online program, the HOME Method.  And now, he and I now have another business together, called Live Life Build, where we’re working with builders to improve the way they do business, so we can elevate the professionalism of the residential construction industry overall. This is the fourth episode I’m doing about the PAC Process. So, if you haven’t listened to the previous three episodes, be sure to do that now, because this episode will make a lot more sense with that background information. The PAC Process, is where you bring a builder on to be Paid As a Consultant during the pre-construction phase. They become a collaborative member of your design team, working alongside you and your chosen designer, to provide input on cost and buildability as your design develops and gets resolved. It’ll be great for you to hear just how much Duayne gets involved, and what you can expect from the PAC Process with other builders - because it’s far more than simply paying for a quote. And remember, to access the resources and information mentioned in this episode, you can head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/204, as I’ve popped them all there for you.  So, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focusing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. In this episode, Duayne and I discuss: DPearce Constructions and the type of work they do How many designers Duayne works with using the PAC Process Why the PAC Process is the only way he takes on projects What happens as part of the initial query (when a client first gets in touch) The most common questions and concerns from clients about the PAC Process How Duayne views his role as the builder in the design process, and what he ensures he stays focussed on The greatest source of confusion in this process Plus his big tips to get it right when using the PAC Process Listen now. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/204 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 203. In this episode, I speak with a building designer who is using the PAC Process with his residential clients to improve the design process, and the client experience in their project. You may recall Aaron Wailes, who featured as our Building Designer in Season 4 (Know Your Team) here on the podcast. Aaron Wailes is the Founder and Owner of GreenCoast Building Design, a residential design practice focused on delivering form, function, personality and lifestyle to residential housing. Based in Wynnum, Brisbane, they work with clients all over SE Queensland and beyond. Remember, our PAC Process, is where you bring a builder on to be Paid As a Consultant during the pre-construction phase.  They become a collaborative member of your design team, working alongside you and your chosen designer, to provide input on cost and buildability as your design develops and gets resolved. Aaron has some great insight to share about how he sees this process working for homeowners in real life, plus tips to help you get the most from the process and your design experience, and some really great ideas about building the right team for your reno or new build. And remember, to access the resources and information mentioned in this episode, you can head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/203, as I’ve popped them all there for you.  There’s also a full PDF Transcript you can download - I don’t usually transcribe the interviews because it’s such a big job compared to my solo episodes, but we had some challenges with internet stability in this interview, so I thought it would be helpful for you to have a version you could read as a backup!  So head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/203 to grab that free PDF transcript too. So, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focusing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. In this episode, Aaron and I discuss: GreenCoast Building Design and how things have changed since the last time he was on the podcast. How many builders he works with using the PAC Process What happens as part of the initial query (when a client first gets in touch) The most common questions and concerns from clients about the PAC Process The main things Aaron has to be aware of as a designer, knowing he’s working for, and commissioned by the client The greatest source of confusion in this process Plus his big tips to get it right when using the PAC Process Listen now. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/203   Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 202. In this episode, I’m continuing the conversation about the PAC Process, where you bring a builder on board your design team and they’re Paid As a Consultant during the pre-construction phase. In the last episode, I shared some information on why this process can be a great way to commence your project, and what you can achieve with it, plus some key things to be aware of as well - including what the PAC Process is NOT.  So, if you haven’t listened to that episode, I encourage you to stop listening to this one, and head back to it now. You’ll get to hear the WHY of the PAC Process. And we’ll be waiting here for you when you get back. In this episode, I’m sharing more about the WHAT of the PAC Process. I’ll be talking about what the PAC Process actually looks like as a step-by-step process, as well as key things to be aware of and how it can vary depending on the builder you work with. Now, remember you can download a PDF Transcript of this episode for free at https://undercoverarchitect.com/202 - so be sure to do that so you can save these notes for your records to review later. So, let’s dive in. If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focusing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. So, let me explain how the step by step process of the PAC Process can go.  This can vary though, based on the builder and designer or architect you’re working with, the fee you’re paying, and the type of project you’re doing.  As I’m taking you through these steps, my expectation is that you’re at the beginning of your project - ie, you haven’t started your design process yet. Listen now. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/202 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello, this is Episode 201. If you’re frustrated at hearing all the stories about those who spend loads of time on their home design, only to find at the point of getting quotes that they’re significantly over budget, you’re going to love this podcast episode. You can create a custom new build or renovation that’s on budget and simpler to build - you just need the right process and the right team on board. In this episode, and actually across the next few episodes as well, I’m going to dive into detail into what I call the PAC Process, or the P - A - C Process.  This is a process where you, as the homeowner, bring a builder on board to be Paid As a Consultant (hence the P-A-C initials).  You bring them on to be Paid as a Consultant during the design phase, and they work collaboratively with you and your chosen designer (be it an architect or building designer), whilst your design is being developed. And remember, you can grab a full transcript of THIS episode as a free PDF download by heading to https://undercoverarchitect.com/201, so be sure to do that so you can review this episode as needed. So, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focusing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. In this episode, I’ll help you understand WHY the PAC Process can be such a useful way to work through your design phase. In the next episode, I’ll be diving more into the WHAT of the PAC Process: that is, the step-by-step process, so you can have a clearer understanding of what it really involves, who does what, and what you can expect from them as well. It’s really great to be sharing this detailed information with you about the PAC Process, because I believe it to be such an awesome way to get a great outcome and experience from your renovation or new build, right from the start.  And I’m seeing time and time again how much it improves budget management, creates strong relationships within project teams, and makes projects far more enjoyable overall. And, I’m also seeing the proliferation of ‘getting paid for quotes’ or ‘charge for quotes’ info being spread through the residential building industry, and builders getting taught terrible information about how to implement this in their business. So, let’s help you get it right. Learn more about how the PAC Process can help you create a home design that’s on budget and simpler to build. Listen now. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/201 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Episode 200. Can you believe it? Sometimes I pinch myself that I’m here, that you’re here, that we’re on this journey together and it’s now 200 episodes in and almost 4.5 years old.  And so, in this episode, I want to celebrate this journey with you. Consider this my very sincere and possibly corny, love letter to you, my gorgeous podcast listener.  And, perhaps I’m showing my age, but in a nod to Heath Ledger, I’ve titled this podcast “10 Things I Love About You” as a listener of the Get it Right podcast.  (Anyone remember the movie “10 Things I Hate About You”? I think it’s on Netflix if, like me, you enjoyed that genre of movies!) I’m also going to share some personal info about my own renovation project, as my hubby and I are starting the process of renovating our own family home.  And remember, you can grab a full transcript of THIS episode as a free PDF download by heading to https://undercoverarchitect.com/200, so be sure to do that so you can review this episode as needed. So, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. I know I can promise you that it will be all worth it. And I believe you totally have it in you to make this happen.  It may not be easy. It may be challenging at times.  You may need to have tough conversations, hear tough feedback, change tack, or pivot on your ideas and plans.  Things may get in the way. You may not progress as fast as you would like.  You may make mistakes, get frustrated with the performance of those you’re working with, or frustrated with your own performance.  You may feel uncomfortable, slow, even silly or stupid. You may feel like it’s not worth it. You may want to chuck it all in, and sell up everything and hit the road in a caravan for a year. You may want to win the lottery and just pay for someone to take care of all of it for you.  At any point, or at all the points, you may feel annoyed with your partner, with those you’re working with, with yourself. Anything that involves this much money, and this much time and effort … these feelings are inevitable. They will and can exist in small doses at different points in your project.  Please know, if they’re the constant experience, however, then you need more support and help - so look for where you can access that. Because you can and should enjoy your project. It shouldn’t be a stress-filled, difficult experience from start to finish. It can have its moments and ups and downs, but it should still, on the whole, be enjoyable. However, when something matters this much, and has this much meaning in your life, and in your long term future with your family - plus it’s something you don’t have any or much experience in - you can feel these challenging things. When you get it right though: when you access the support and guidance you need, when you get clear on your goals and create a great team who is on the same page, with a passion for helping you achieve those goals, and you know what you need to know (or have somewhere to turn to get that help), then this is definitely true: The journey will be so SO worth it - as will the home you create as well. I know it will.  From my 25 plus years of doing this, with all the projects I’ve worked on and all the beautiful people I’ve had the privilege of working with, I know this to be true for you too. So listen to my somewhat corny but very sincere love letter to you.  Episode 200 feels like a big milestone, and it’s great to be able to have a conversation with you like this one, so I do hope you find it really helpful too.  Listen now. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/200 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Episode #199. In this episode, I’m continuing on with information about what to consider if you’re planning on supplying your own fixtures, finishes and fittings when constructing your renovation or new build, and excluding them from your contract with your builder. This is Part 2 of this topic. So if you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, it’ll make a lot more sense if you go back to Episode 198 and listen to it first (https://undercoverarchitect.com/198).  Then you can come back, and listen to this episode - it will be waiting here for you. And remember, you can grab a full transcript of THIS episode as a free PDF download by heading to https://undercoverarchitect.com/199, so be sure to do that so you can review this episode as needed. So, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. In the last episode, I went through the first two of the five main reasons I hear both homeowners and builders use to explain why it’s a good idea to source and supply your own fixtures, fittings and finishes in your project. These reasons I described are: Being able to get exactly what you want in your home, because you choose and buy it from the places and people you want to. Not having to pay for the builder to shop for you, and generally avoiding paying the builder’s margin. And in this episode, I’ll be taking you through the remaining three main reasons I hear discussed by both homeowners and builders. They are: Knowing that the items you want are in stock and available. Being able to start on site sooner rather than later. Purchase things on sale or discontinued / end-of-line items and save serious money. In this episode, I also want to spend a little time highlighting specific areas of your contract to be aware of, especially during times when (as it is at the time of recording this episode), we’re experiencing time and cost pressures in home building and renovating projects.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/199 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode #198, and I’m diving into the topic of supplying your own fixtures and finishes for your renovation or building project. Many homeowners seek to save money in their building project by extracting specific supplied items from the building contract. They organise to do this with their builder, and sign a contract that doesn’t include these items.  This means they (as the homeowner) then go and personally shop for, purchase and supply, all or various fixtures and fittings for their reno or new build. And at the time of recording this episode, where we’re dealing with huge demands on products, materials, trades and sub-contractors, there are builders actually recommending to homeowners that they take care of their own supply items when signing their contract. And remember, you can grab a full transcript of this episode as a free PDF download by heading to https://undercoverarchitect.com/198, so be sure to do that so you can review this episode as needed. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. In Episode 198, I share the main reasons I hear both homeowners AND builders cite to pull the supply of fixtures, fittings and finishes out of the building contract, and make them the responsibility of the homeowner to source, purchase and supply. Listen to the episode, as I take you through the whole issue of supplying fixtures and finishes, discuss the much-held belief that you’ll save money on not getting the builder to shop for you, and that you’ll also get to avoid a builder’s margin by paying for things yourself. I’ll be doing this topic over two episodes, because it’s quite a lot of subject matter, and I want to do it justice. So, this is Part 1 of this conversation. And be sure to tune into the next episode to listen to Part 2 (Episode 199). RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/198 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Episode #197, and in it, I’ll be talking about using a Design Construct Builder or Company for your new home or renovation.  Design Construct builders or companies can seem like a great way to manage cost and still get a custom design approach inside a one-stop shop, with a single point of contact.  However there are a range of reasons why it may not work for your project, and where it can be problematic. And remember, you can grab a full transcript of this episode as a free PDF download by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/197, so be sure to do that so you can review this episode as needed. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what on focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. In this Episode 197, I share some key things to establish before working with a Design Construct Builder or Company. These key things can include, but are not limited to: How long will the design phase go for? How many reviews are included? What type of agreement are you signing to commission the design phase? Who owns the products of this design phase? What will this phase cost in fees? How will budgetary information be provided during the design phase? What assumptions are being made in that budgetary information? What other steps will be taken in this design phase? Listen to the podcast now as I take you through these considerations, plus loads more help, when it comes to choosing a Design Construct Builder or Company for your new home or renovation project. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/197 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode #196, and in it, I’m going to share with you how to create a comprehensive and effective design brief for your renovation or building project. This is something EVERYONE needs to do - whether they’re renovating or building new - and so, it’s worthwhile learning what to include, and the kinds of things to think about, plus specific topics to discuss with anyone else you’re doing your project with. And good news: you can grab a full transcript of this podcast episode as a PDF download by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/196 so be sure to do that, and use it as a guide for creating your design brief. So, let’s dive straight in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. Your design brief is a really critical part of planning your renovation or building project. And creating one can be a misunderstood process. I’ve seen such a range of how these get done, and how homeowners create them.  And I’ve also seen big challenges because designers don’t always do a good job of extracting the right information from a homeowner before they start their project. This means they can miss things and waste time in the design process, because the design brief wasn’t established properly upfront. I’ll talk more about this and other mistakes that get made with design briefs as we move through this episode. This is the thing: it’s not only that creating a design brief is a necessary step in your project. It’s also that the actual exercise of creating one, is an important process for you to go through in your project planning.  Creating a design brief forces you to think about, and write down, specific things that will make your project goals more clear, and then enable you to communicate the most important parts of your project with others.  And this will set you up for success as you navigate choosing your team, moving through the design phase, and being sure your design is actually delivering on the things you want in your future home. Creating a design brief is something I get a lot of questions about, so I thought I’d use this episode to take you through the things to ponder for your project, so you can get started on creating your own design brief. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/196 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode 195 of the Get it Right podcast. In this episode, we’ll be talking about the stories we tell ourselves that may sabotage our renovation or new build project. I’ll be bringing you a special guest who has bucketloads of experience in helping people bust their stories wide open. Her name is Lisa Corduff, and she’s got a huge amount of wisdom to share that I know is going to be amazing for you. Her work is something I’ve had personal experience in. And in the work I do with homeowners all over Australia, and around the world - both male and female - I know it’s going to be relevant for you too.  SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. Let me share a little about Lisa Corduff, but not too much, as you’ll hear here share more of her story in our conversation in this episode. Lisa helps women upgrade their mindset, get unstuck, and change the stuff that’s not working in their life.  A solo mum of 3, she’s all about skipping straight to the hacks and techniques that actually work, while avoiding the perfectionism and overwhelm that can so easily keep us trapped.  Like it or not, we have these embedded beliefs and versions of reality we carry around in our behaviour, habits and thought-patterns, that can impact how we navigate our projects, the types of homes we create, and how well the whole journey goes for us as well. And once you’re aware of these beliefs, these stories - well, it’s seriously powerful for changing your experience, creating different opportunities, and also showing up as a truer version of yourself (which actually then enables you to create a home that really works for you). LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/lisa Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode 194 of the Get it Right podcast. In this episode, I’ll be covering the kick-off stage of your project.  This is where you’re past the ideas stage, and know you want to get going, but you’re not sure about who to hire or next steps, and who you should speak to first.  We’ll be covering the mistakes to avoid, the key ways to get it right in this stage, and an action step for you to make great progress in the right direction. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. Well, in this episode, our 194th episode, I want to take you through something that will not only help you in your project, but in lots of other areas in your life as well.  And it’s something I learned many, many years ago, and I still use to this day.  What is it? Well, it’s a really powerful communication model, and it’s super simple to remember and use. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/194 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode 193 of the Get it Right podcast. In this episode, I’m talking about those of you, who have got your plans locked and loaded, and it's now time to sign contracts with a builder and hit go! Before you choose your builder and before you start construction, listen to this episode. So, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you.   Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan   This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.    Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses, including the transcripts of this season (all packaged in a downloadable PDF E-Guide). Getting ready to sign a building contract and start construction is an exciting point in your project, because it means everything is about to become real. All the planning, preparing and decision-making you’ve been doing, is about to turn into real floors, walls and roof on your site.  However, it’s also the point at which you’ll be legally bound to someone, plus handing over loads of money on a regular basis.  Homeowners can get it so wrong at this stage. From stress and frustration, right through to half-finished homes and bankrupt builders, the risks at this stage are high.  It is possible to enjoy this stage though, and to get yourself prepared and informed so you can be actively involved in, and confident through your construction phase.  LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-before-you-start-construction Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode 192 of the Get it Right podcast. In this episode, I’ll be talking about being stuck. That frustrating feeling when you’re in the midst of your project, and you’re just finding it super hard to take any action. You’re paralysed. Unable to move forward.  It may be because you have a design you don’t love, and you’re not sure what to do now. Or you may have a design you DO love, but it’s totally over your budget, and you’re not sure what steps to take next.  Or perhaps it’s to do with a professional you’re working with, a selection you have to make, or one of the many other things involved in making your reno or new home happen. You just can’t take the next step. You’re stuck. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses, including the transcripts of this season (all packaged in a downloadable PDF E-Guide). This episode will also help with any other kind of stuckness you’re experiencing in your project. Basically that inability to make the necessary decision to move to the next stage of your project, and continue moving on your project plan. Being stuck is not great. There can be big reasons like signing off your design, choosing a team member or submitting to council, right through to small reasons, like the inability to decide on a tap or showerhead. And everything in between. That general feeling of stuckness which can come at all steps of the process, and either be something about your own situation or it can be forced upon you by a poorly performing professional or builder.  And being stuck is unfortunately super common. People can get stuck for years sometimes. I receive many emails from homeowners who are stuck, wanting help - hence why this episode is being created! Because I’ve seen this is actually a stage in many homeowners’ project journeys, so it warrants its own episode and the opportunity for me to give my suggestions here.  And in fact, knowing what happens when you get stuck, how to get out of it, and what it looks like, can often help you avoid getting stuck in the first place. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-get-unstuck-designing-building-renovatingAccess my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode 191 of the Get it Right podcast. In this episode, I’ll be talking about those who are working with someone right now on your home design, exploring all the options, reviewing sketches of floor plans being presented to you, and you’re loving all the possibilities and ideas.  If you’re working with an architect or a building designer, or who are planning to, this episode will show you what you need to consider to maximise that relationship, and really get a great outcome not only for your future home, but also in the experience you have in your project.  SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses, including the transcripts of this season (all packaged in a downloadable PDF E-Guide). Many homeowners get confused about how much they need a designer for, and what will add value to their project experience, and the home they create. Especially when they’re trying to juggle their budget, and determine what they’ll spend in fees vs what they’ll keep aside for the construction phase.  My perspective on this is that, for any money you spend on professional fees with ANY consultant you’re using in your project, the value they add and the money they save you should dramatically outweigh the cost of their fees.  When projects go well, that’s the feedback homeowners give. That it was SO worth it to have those people on their team and that the expertise they added and mistakes they helped them avoid far exceeded the cost of their fees. Of course, I know not everyone wants to use an architect, and an architect is not the only designer who will work with homeowners on their renovation and building plans. Of course, we also have building designers, and interior designers as well.  I’m very clear about the fact that it’s not about you only using an architect - because, as with any industry, there are those that are great at their job, and those that aren’t, but still can hang a shingle and charge people for their work.  I’m passionate about you choosing the best fit for your project, and finding the right designer for you, and then having the ability to check that they’re taking care of you and providing you with quality guidance and professional advice.  There is a perception that an architect is the most expensive design professional to use, but that’s not always the case. There is also a perception that architects only do high-end homes, and you use other designers for everything else. This is also not the case. So, it’s always worthwhile doing your research, dropping some of those preconceptions you have about any of the designer roles in the industry, and finding who’s going to be right for you. I’ll mention more about these different industry roles as we dive a little further into the podcast.  LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-home-design-architect-building-designer Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode 190 of the Get it Right podcast. In this episode I’ll be talking about those who are DIY’ing their design, and know that soon they’ll be on the hunt for a builder to make it a reality. There are many, many homeowners who design their own home from scratch, and then go straight to a builder. They see it as a means of maintaining full control on the process, and getting what they want in their future home.  But there’s some key things to pay attention to if this is your approach, so that you don’t end up making mistakes, or just overlooking the things that can make your home truly special and enjoyable to live in.  SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses, including the transcripts of this season (all packaged in a downloadable PDF E-Guide). When I practiced traditionally as an architect, I had no idea how many homeowners fully designed their own new homes and renovations. I knew that people drew up sketches with ideas for their future homes, but I thought that was where it stopped … and then they found a designer or an architect to continue the process. Since starting Undercover Architect in mid 2014, I have learned just how many of you do design your homes from scratch. As in fully design them: deciding on the floor plan, the elevations, the interior design. And even go so far as to learn software like SketchUp to be able to model them in 3D and really push and play with the design. Some homeowners just really want to do it this way.  Be it because they have a love of design and have always been really passionate about creating their own home.  Or they’ve had a bad experience with a designer in the past, and feel they want full ownership of things this time.  Or because they just feel that to maintain control and get what they really want, they need to be the one creating the design themselves. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-diy-home-design Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode 189 of the Get it Right podcast. In this episode I’ll be covering the kick-off stage of your project.  This is where you’re past the ideas stage, and know you want to get going, but you’re not sure about who to hire or next steps, and who you should speak to first.  We’ll be covering the mistakes to avoid, the key ways to get it right in this stage, and an action step for you to make great progress in the right direction. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses, including the transcripts of this season (all packaged in a downloadable PDF E-Guide). I’m super excited to be diving into this episode, where we’re talking about your first steps in kicking off your project.  This is the stage where you’re past the ideas stage, and know you want to get going, but you’re not sure about who to hire or next steps, and who you should speak to first.  We’ll be covering the mistakes to avoid, the key ways to get it right in this stage, and an action step for you to make great progress in the right direction. If you’re heading somewhere you’ve never been before, and all you’re doing is figuring out the next step as soon as you’ve made the last one, it won’t take much for you to get lost, bamboozled or taken advantage of. So, there’s two parts to this.  One is getting an understanding of the roadmap ahead. The steps you’ll need to take to get from your kick-off stage to that completed home that’s ready to move into - and even beyond, as you navigate defects liability periods and warranties after the builder is gone. Knowing this roadmap, the step-by-step process, is so critical to your success, because it means you can always anticipate what is coming up next, and who you’ll need to help you. And it means you can streamline things overall, rather than dealing with one bucket of tasks and work, and having a big gap in time before you find out what’s next. Or worse still, having to trace back over previous work because you didn’t do all the things you were supposed to do before you moved forward. The second part is about not only knowing your roadmap, but also knowing your strategy. Knowing your strategy is about making sure you start the right project, or choose the right approach to your design, your planning approvals, your overall project.  There’s loads here to help you kick-off your project with the best first steps. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-first-steps-renovating-building Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode 188 of the Get it Right podcast. In this episode, I’ll be helping you learn how to get it right if you’re at the stage in your project where you’re dreaming up ideas, and scrolling Pinterest, Houzz and Google. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses, including the transcripts of this season (all packaged in a downloadable PDF E-Guide). In this episode, I’m talking about the initial phase that homeowners enter when they know a renovation or new build is on their horizon, but they’re not taking any active steps forward into their project planning just yet. This is the stage where you’re dreaming up ideas, scrolling Pinterest, Houzz and Google, and generally getting inspired about what’s possible for your future home. Now, if you’re already past this stage, don’t tune out - because understanding what generally happens here, and what should be happening at this stage … well, that will help you ensure you haven’t missed anything you need to cover in your overall project journey. So what does this stage look like for a homeowner? It can look a few different ways. First is, you may not be even living in the property you plan to renovate, or you may not have yet bought the land you plan to build on.  Or you may be hatching plans for a rental property you already own. Or, it may be an intended renovation for the home you’re currently living in. I know I’m at this stage with our place. I’ve been in this stage for a while. There’s definitely plans to renovate, but what that looks like, how big a renovation it is, when we get started, what we do and how much we spend - well, that’s all still a bit up for grabs. It doesn’t stop the dreaming though does it! LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-dreaming-about-future-home Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode 187 of the Get it Right podcast. In this episode, I’ll be talking about getting serious about your project, and how this can be THE pathway to having real fun whilst you design, build and renovate your family home. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses, including the transcripts of this season (all packaged in a downloadable PDF E-Guide). I’ve really been a little nervous about publishing this episode, and sharing this information with you.  However, there’s been something I’ve especially come to realise over this past year, and I think it speaks volumes about the kinds of homeowners who end up inside the Undercover Architect community, and especially inside my online programs, that it’s worth chatting about.  Because, in sharing this information, it lets you know whether this place, this podcast, my business, the UA Community … whether it’s the place for you, and what you’re looking for. The kind of help you’re seeking for your new home or renovation.  Then if it’s not, you can sign off and not waste any more time here.  And if it is, we can double down and really get things done together. I know it can seem seductive to just pursue the fun stuff. The light-hearted stuff. To focus on the pretty parts, the bits that involve where we shop for styling items or we pick all our colours and finishes, and to pick a ‘name’ for our style and all that stuff.  But … what I’ve come to realise after all this thinking, reflecting and really diving into it, it this: When you want to do serious stuff, and get serious stuff done, you want people around you who take it, and you, seriously too.  But, that doesn’t mean we can’t have fun as well. Because we do. We definitely do. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-how-to-enjoy-your-renovation-new-build Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This season is all about helping you take action. This season is going to help you, whatever stage you’re at, take your next best steps. To avoid the mistakes many make, and have some goals to aim for, and clear action steps to achieve them. And in this episode, I kick off this season by sharing the story of how Undercover Architect all began, and the confronting lessons I had to learn in order to bring it into reality. Listen to the episode now, and stay tuned for a fantastic season! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses, including the transcripts of this season (all packaged in a downloadable PDF E-Guide). This is the 186th episode of the podcast! I can’t quite believe it.  Those 4 years have flown, and over the course of that time, I’ve been able to share a huge amount of information and awesome people with you here on the podcast.  I’m not stopping anytime soon.  I’m making plans for 2021 on the podcast, and the what and the who I’ll be bringing you over the year ahead. It’s super exciting to think of a fresh new year, and what’s ahead.  So stay tuned, tell your friends, and know there’s lots more good stuff on its way here on Get it Right. Before we jump into those episodes though, I’m spending this episode talking more generally about Undercover Architect.  I’ve realised that, even though I’ve shared in lots of other places the how and why Undercover Architect began, I’ve never really shared it here, on the Get it Right podcast.  So, tune in, as I share some nitty gritty details on how and where Undercover Architect began, and some tough lessons I needed to learn to bring it into reality! LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-about-undercover-architect-amelia-lee Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I’m super excited to be bringing this episode to you. Because in it, I’m going to share with you some really fantastic news if you’re designing, building or renovating your future home, and share with you some great insight into what will ultimately create that feel-good home you can’t wait to live in. SHOW NOTES: Since I started Undercover Architect in mid 2014, I’ve been able to help thousands and thousands through the website and this podcast.  In fact, the podcast is now at over 750,000 downloads, which is incredible.  And through Undercover Architect’s online programs, I’m directly helping, and have been able to personally help, over 1,600 homeowners with various aspects of designing, building and renovating their family homes. I’m always looking for what creates true enjoyment and success in residential projects. Whatever the scale or size, budget or location, what is it that really matters and makes not only the experience of building and renovating an enjoyable one, but that also creates a fantastic, feel-good, family home at the end of that journey. I’ve come to realise that it comes down to four key ideas. There’s 4 things that make designing, building and renovating your family home do-able, enjoyable, worthwhile, and save you time, money and stress along the way. Before I dive into these 4 things, these 4 key ideas, I want to briefly mention my exciting news - and be sure to stay tuned until the end of this episode, because I’ll share more detail. So what is this exciting news? Well, it’s this. We’ve made some big changes to how you can work with me more closely in your new build or renovation project. Announcing, The HOME Method. (Head here to learn more >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/) The HOME Method is available to join now, and it offers incredible value for you to get such comprehensive support and help in your project.  As well as accessing these much-loved online programs, I’ve also increased our Q & A’s to fortnightly so I can provide more regular help and input to member’s projects.  And you still get access to our great member benefits as well. So, if you’d like to learn more and join us, then head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ for more information. Ok, so I’m going to dive into these 4 things, these 4 key ideas that improve your project experience, and the type of home you create. And I’m going to take you through them one-by-one. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-the-home-method   To learn more about The HOME Method, head here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is a special episode where I’ll be sharing how to choose the right builder and some of the mistakes I see homeowners make when it comes to selecting the builder for their new home or renovation project. SHOW NOTES: Before we jump into the episode, I want to mention a mini-course that I created a little while ago and have been super excited to see well over 100 beautiful people jump into already. It’s called ‘Choose Your Builder’, and it’s designed to give you actionable and practical information so you can be more confident when researching, interviewing and selecting your builder.  (Head here to learn more >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/choose-your-builder/) Inside, you’ll find my video workshop, “The 5C’s to Choosing Your Builder” where I give you a simple framework to remember and use as you’re looking for, and speaking with builders - plus I outline all the right questions to ask. I also have a series of short videos outlining the common mistakes many homeowners make when choosing a builder, and working with them in their project - so you can totally avoid these in yours. There’s also some helpful resources curated for your builder checks, and a PDF download you can use to interview your builder, and remember all the questions I want you to ask them … because this is how you get the answers you need to make an informed decision. And, when I created this program, I ran it live and we had one of the most epic Q & A sessions that went for 90 minutes … and that’s also included in the mini-course. We covered so much ground, so many varying topics in that Q & A, your questions are bound to be answered in there too. All of this is packaged up and ready to dive into, and move through at your own pace, and make it super easy to get informed, plus the resources you need to make a confident decision about your builder. Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/choose-your-builder/ to join now. A fair few weeks ago, I posted a question in my instagram stories. It said: “What makes you nervous about selecting a builder?” It was great to see the responses I received, and they were all very common nerves that I’ve heard from homeowners many, many times before. They included worries such as: Unexpected costs  Whether they’ll be there for the entire project Integrity of the company Transparency Being ripped off The builder claiming to be able to build just to win the job That their workmanship will not be of a good standard Plus lots more along similar lines. And really a lot of these nerves boil down to this: Can I trust this builder? Can I trust them to do a good job of building my home, to do what they say they’ll do, to be honest and have integrity in the way they run their business, build my home and the way they take care of me? So, I want to share with you 3 really useful things to remember when you’re choosing your builder so you can find one you can trust, and then work with them really well in your project.  And don’t forget, if you want to dive into this in much more detail, then the ‘Choose Your Builder’ mini-course is a great way to do that. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-how-to-choose-the-right-builder To learn more about my Choose Your Builder mini-course, head here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/choose-your-builder/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! I’m back with Part 2 and more of my recap of the Australian Bushfire Building Conference.  There was a consistent theme to the conference about the role you as a homeowner, living in your home, can do to ensure its bushfire resistance - that can actually have a more significant impact than its construction. Something that’s not just about its construction.  So in this episode, I’ll be talking about that. Let’s dive in (and check resources for more helpful links and the transcript to this episode). SHOW NOTES: In my research for this ‘Rebuild + Build Better’ season, I saw a lot of examples where properties were only saved because someone had been there to defend them.  There was a vivid example from the recent fires where a woman returned with her family to find her home was still intact - and she was shocked because so many others were lost. As she surveyed her home, she found an area of charring on the back of the property, up the rear wall, but that was the extent of damage.  Later, she crossed paths with a volunteer who had stayed and walked the streets with other volunteers to help defend from the fires. And this volunteer, on finding out where this woman lived, said that she had seen flames ignite the home, but she’d been able to put them out before they took hold of the home.  When I attended the Australian Bushfire Building Conference in September, I was really interested to hear a lot of discussion about this topic: focussing on the importance of defence in any bushfire building strategy.    In the last episode, I shared a lot of the information that was focussed on what we can do in regards to designing and building for bushfire prone sites, or in bushfire prone areas.  In this episode, I want to take you through what was discussed in regards to active defence, and its role in protecting your property and home in the event of bushfire - or any fire for that matter.  So, let’s hear more. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-australian-bushfire-building-conference-part-2  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! It’s been an amazing season on the podcast so far, and it’s been great to hear from those of you who have found this information helpful.  And thanks to those of you who have been reviewing the podcast so it can reach more people, and also sharing this resource with others who need to hear it. I’m so, so grateful that you’re getting this podcast out there, and to know that homeowners all over are learning how to Get it Right with Undercover Architect. In mid September, I attended the Australian Bushfire Building Conference. Held in the Blue Mountains, they opened it up to virtual attendance, which was fantastic. It was 2 days of incredible speakers, so many insights shared, and such great info, that I wanted to share it here on the podcast as well.  In this episode and the next, I’m going to be sharing the highlights and big takeaways from the Conference. There’s something here for everyone, so, let’s dive in (and check resources for more helpful links and the transcript to this episode). SHOW NOTES: This conference I wanted to talk about in this episode is called The Australian Bushfire Building Conference … and I was grateful to be able to hear from so many speakers from all around Australia at this event.  The Blue Mountains is, as cited during the conference, the most bushfire prone area in Australia for properties - with 73% of properties on bushfire prone land.  The speakers were largely from NSW, with other speakers presenting virtually from other locations around Australia. They covered a huge range of topics - and had a huge amount of experience in this area. The Conference was … heavy.  I think with the year that 2020 has been, the immediacy of just what so many went through during those Black Summer fires, and have endured in the past fire events as well, may seem like a distant memory for many of us.  It was quite confronting to be reminded of the intensity, the scale and the sheer destruction those fires caused, and what fire fighters, volunteers, and local communities were and are dealing with in facing those fires, and on their recovery paths now. I thought it would be worthwhile to take you through the highlights and big learnings for me, the big a-ha’s I felt would be relevant to anyone who is rebuilding, or wanting to build a better, more resilient and bushfire resistant home. Speakers that I share on this podcast include: Commissioner Rob Rodgers Shane Fitzsimmons (Resilience NSW) Justin Leonard, CSIRO Dr James Davidson and Clive Ba-Pe, JDA Co. Sam Vivas, Viva Living Homes So, let’s hear more. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-australian-bushfire-building-conference-part-1  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! It’s the last part of my conversation with David Keane from Solve My Claim, in what’s been an amazing interview (over 5 episodes) full of such helpful information and insights into home and contents insurance, insurance claims, and how to ensure you’re protected when you need to be. Solve my Claim provides expert support and assistance to anyone struggling with their insurance claims.  And it’s been fantastic to hear members of the UA Community have been getting in touch with Solve My Claim to get the help they need - and have been sharing this incredible information with others as well. David has more great information to share in this episode. So, let’s dive in (and check resources for more helpful links and the transcript to this episode). SHOW NOTES: Solve My Claim exists to provide expert guidance, to help you navigate through claims disputes and problems that can be difficult to resolve. They provide an extraordinary service to people who can often feel so worn and lonely.  First they’ve often been through a traumatic experience that’s resulted in significant loss or damage to their home and belongings. And then they’ve had to battle their insurance company to get the money they thought they were due, to help them get back on their feet.  I know from personal experience, it’s a harrowing experience, and you can feel like all the insurance company is doing is trying to wear you down so you settle for what they’re offering.  Solve My Claim does such important work in being in your corner, and providing you with the expertise and support you need to argue your case in the necessary language and parameters required, so you can get what you’re owed. So, let’s hear more. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel (can you link that to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-current-home-insurance-solve-my-claim-part-2  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! In this episode, I’m back with more from David Keane, Solve My Claim. Solve my Claim provides expert support and assistance to anyone struggling with their insurance claims.  David is an expert on all things home and content insurance, and he’s going to help us understand and decipher the differences between insurance policies, and what to check so we know we’re covered. This is essential listening for anyone choosing a home and contents insurance policy, or wanting to review their existing policy to ensure they’re covered properly. So, let’s dive in (and check resources for more helpful links and the transcript to this episode). SHOW NOTES: David is the Director of Solve My Claim, and he has been involved in the insurance industry for more than 24 years. During this time, he was constantly amazed at how many people came to him with insurance problems, complaints, disputes and claims problems. In every instance, he was able to resolve those claims. He realised that there was nowhere for these people to turn, and that realisation started a process that resulted in the creation of Solve My Claim in 2014. Many people feel disempowered when making an insurance claim, because the company has a team of experts acting for them, and you are all on your own. Well not any longer! Solve My Claim is levelling the playing field, and ensuring that you have the best possible opportunity to solve your claim. David Keane is an expert in how to choose insurance policies for your home and contents, and what to be aware of in assessing and deciphering those PDS documents!  It’s definitely worthwhile understanding the pitfalls and hazards of insurance policies BEFORE you have to make a claim. So, let’s hear more. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel (can you link that to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-the-right-home-insurance-solve-my-claim-part-1See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I’m back with Part 2 of my conversation with Amy Beattie, Mortgage Broker and owner of Good Green Home Loans. We’re covering more info about financing your new build or renovation.  This will include talking about some of the many factors that banks and lenders consider to determine your viability, and the fact that banks can put black marks on postcodes or specific criteria that can be completely outside of your control.  All super helpful knowledge to have when you’re seeking finance for your new home or renovation, especially if your site is challenging or in a bushfire-prone area. If you haven’t listened to Part 1, pause this podcast, and head back do that now. We’ll be here when you get back.  Otherwise, let’s dive into Part 2 now. SHOW NOTES: Good Green Home Loans is here to help you find the right home loan at a great rate – using only environmentally responsible lenders who aren’t using their profit and power to support the fossil fuel industry. Good Green Home Loans helps you make sustainable choices with your home loan, which is fantastic for exercising your buying power. When we feel powerless to create change, it’s important to remember how powerful our personal spending decisions can be. We can send a great big message to the companies who seek to serve us, by demanding better from their businesses. Amy is a wealth of knowledge and experience in helping those buying, building and renovating, find suitable, competitive loans, from ethical lenders. So, let’s hear more from Amy now. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-home-loans-101-lending-criteria-amy-beattie-part-2See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I’m looking forward to this episode and introducing Amy Beattie to you. Amy is a Mortgage Broker and owner of Good Green Home Loans, a mortgage broking business that puts sustainability at the forefront of its lending decisions. This is part 1 of my conversation with Amy, and in it, she shares loads of helpful information about borrowing for your renovation or new build. And especially what you need to know when your site is more challenging, or in a bushfire prone area. Let’s dive in now. SHOW NOTES: Good Green Home Loans is not your typical mortgage broking service. Good Green Home Loans is here to help you find the right home loan at a great rate – using only environmentally responsible lenders who aren’t using their profit and power to support the fossil fuel industry. Amy Beattie is a mortgage broker. However, she’s not like most mortgage brokers I know. And when I first heard about her business, Good Green Home Loans, I was so excited that it not only existed, but that it was being driven by someone with such purpose and commitment to their mission, they were willing to build a business on it. Amy believes that Australia’s largest corporations have a responsibility to be leaders when it comes to protecting the environment. With their continued investment in the fossil fuel industry they aren’t there yet. The greatest way we can encourage change is by moving our valuable business elsewhere. This is where Good Green Home Loans can help. When you’re about to set up a potentially decades-long relationship with a lender for one of the biggest investments in your life, Amy helps you not only achieve a great outcome for your mortgage, but vote with your dollar for a future that improves the environment, reduces your carbon footprint, and she also makes a donation on your behalf to a charity or not-for-profit organisation helping the environment as well. So, let’s hear more from Amy now. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw] for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-financing-your-new-build-renovation-amy-beattie-part-1See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This episode is Part 2 of my conversation with Andy Marlow and Dick Clarke from Envirotecture. In this episode, we’re talking about Passive House, and specifically discussing the opportunity it provides to protect your indoor air quality. The bushfires and smoke pollution that many areas in Australia suffered from really tested the air filtration capacity of the Passive House system.  We’ll also be talking about the active systems you can use to create better fire protection for your home. And we’ll be talking about Andy and Dick’s other business, Passive House Design and Construct, and what it offers for those wanting to manage budget and sustainability whilst creating a passive house certified home. If you haven’t listened to Part 1, pause this podcast, and head back do that now. We’ll be here when you get back.  Otherwise, let’s dive into Part 2 now. SHOW NOTES: Let me introduce you to Dick Clarke and Andy Marlow from Envirotecture. Dick Clarke is principal of Envirotecture, is an Accredited Building Designer with over 35 years experience, focusing exclusively on ecologically sustainable and culturally appropriate buildings, as well as sustainable design in vehicles and vessels, and has received many Design Awards. Andy Marlow is a Director at Envirotecture, holds both Bachelors and Masters degrees in Architecture, is a certified Passive House Designer and has extensive experience in sustainable design at a variety of scales. Andy is currently a Board Member of the Australian Passive House Association.  And recently, they started a new business, Passivhaus Design and Construct. Frustrated by the big challenge many experience in their new home journey - that is, creating a sustainably designed home that can be delivered on budget, they decided to marry together the design and construction in a total delivery model. You’ll enjoy cost certainty, quality design, an excellent build and a certified passive house… because it’s their passion to make homes that are better for everyone. And remember too, you can grab a full transcript of this episode, plus get all the links I mention by heading to the show notes. So, let’s hear more from Andy and Dick now. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel >>>  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-passivhaus-design-construct-envirotecture-part-2See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is the first of 2 episodes where I’ll be sharing my conversation with Andy Marlow and Dick Clarke from Envirotecture, a building design and architecture practice in Sydney specialising in sustainable and passivhaus homes. This conversation is packed full of fantastic advice and insights into how you design a home that is affordable and sustainable, and what to do if it also needs to be bushfire resistant as well. Both Andy and Dick have such great knowledge to share - I’m really looking forward to sharing their wisdom with you. So, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: Let me introduce you to Dick Clarke and Andy Marlow from Envirotecture. Dick Clarke is principal of Envirotecture, is an Accredited Building Designer with over 35 years experience, focusing exclusively on ecologically sustainable and culturally appropriate buildings, as well as sustainable design in vehicles and vessels, and has received many Design Awards. Andy Marlow is a Director at Envirotecture, holds both Bachelors and Masters degrees in Architecture, is a certified Passive House Designer and has extensive experience in sustainable design at a variety of scales. Andy is currently a Board Member of the Australian Passive House Association.  And recently, they started a new business, Passivhaus Design and Construct. Frustrated by the big challenge many experience in their new home journey - that is, creating a sustainably designed home that can be delivered on budget, they decided to marry together the design and construction in a total delivery model. You’ll enjoy cost certainty, quality design, an excellent build and a certified passive house… because it’s their passion to make homes that are better for everyone. And remember too, you can grab a full transcript of this episode, plus get all the links I mention by heading to the show notes. So, let’s hear more from Andy and Dick now. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel >>>  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-affordable-sustainable-design-envirotecture-part-1  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This episode is Part 2 of my conversation with architect, Julie Firkin. In this episode, we’re talking about Bushfire Community Centres, working with architects in the recovery efforts, and what it means to help someone after such a traumatic event. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 of my conversation with Julie Firkin where we discussed the Bushfire Homes Scheme, pause this podcast, and head back do that now. We’ll be here when you get back.  Otherwise, let’s dive into Part 2 now. SHOW NOTES: For over 10 years, Julie Firkin Architects has been bringing creativity and problem-solving prowess to projects big and small in and around Melbourne. An award-winning firm, headed up by architect Julie Firkin, they pride themselves on a personal and people-focused approach to architecture. Julie has a hands-on approach to all projects and designs by visualising herself in the space which helps to create homes that are a joy to live in and spaces that are both practical and beautiful. In the article from MARK Magazine I mentioned in our previous episode, in Julie’s interview with Marg Hearn, Julie said this: “I’m always interested in innovation and in new solutions, as opposed to architects who find a groove and do what they do well all of the time. It was obvious from media reports that people in bushfire-affected areas had a lack of community refuges to go to. In speaking to the CSIRO, I discovered that providing official community refuges is a contentious undertaking, because authorities generally encourage people in high-risk areas to evacuate, and with a refuge to go to, they might decide to stay. Nevertheless, new codes and standards for community bushfire refuges are being developed.  Following the fires, some 52 locations were identified by the state premier and the chief officer of the CFA [Country Fire Authority] as being at the highest risk for bushfire. These locations became candidates for the development of New Township Protection Plans. In setting up the design studio, I selected Forrest, a beautiful hamlet in the Otway hinterlands, as the working site. Each student was asked to design a unique concept that would serve as a community refuge during fire season and a public amenity at other times. They explored the broadest possible variety of building types – town halls, schools, visitors centres – and, as part of the process, sat in on a town meeting and sought input from a local council. Should the opportunity arise for that township to gain a refuge, both council and community will have access to 15 design concepts as a source of inspiration for further discussion.”  I wanted to hear more about how Julie had worked with students in exploring what Bushfire Community Centres could offer as a strategy for building more resilient and defendable communities in the event of a bushfire.  And I was also super keen, given Julie’s experience in New York after 9/11 and in the 2009 Black Saturday fires recovery, to hear her views on how she saw architects could work with people recovering from such a traumatic event.  And remember too, you can grab a full transcript of this episode, plus get all the links I mention by heading to the show notes. So, let’s hear more from Julie now. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel >>>  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-bushfire-home-design-julie-firkin-part-2See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I’ll be talking about what’s been done in the past to help homeowners with the design of their homes when rebuilding after bushfire. I’ll also be sharing some specific resources you can access if you need design help with your rebuild. And I’ll be introducing architect Julie Firkin to you. She’ll be sharing some insights about bushfire home design, and her involvement in a scheme established by the Victorian Government after the Black Saturday fires in 2009. So, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: For over 10 years, Julie Firkin Architects has been bringing creativity and problem-solving prowess to projects big and small in and around Melbourne. An award-winning firm, headed up by architect Julie Firkin, they pride themselves on a personal and people-focused approach to architecture. Julie has a hands-on approach to all projects and designs by visualising herself in the space which helps to create homes that are a joy to live in and spaces that are both practical and beautiful. Julie studied and practiced internationally and worked for several years at renowned practices. She brings this breadth of experience to her private practice, weaving a local approach and an international perspective into everything she does. While Julie Firkin Architects has the skills and expertise to deliver a range of projects, from residential to commercial, small to large, Julie has a personal interest in both sustainable and bushfire-resistant design. Her design for a bushfire-resistant house was featured by the Bushfire Homes Service following the Black Saturday Bushfires in 2009 and Julie has also taught extensively on the subject. In this episode, I wanted to take a little time to talk about a scheme that was launched by the Victorian government after the Black Saturday fires of 2009. It was called the Bushfire Homes Service. I’ll be sharing some information on what it involved, and also introducing architect Julie Firkin to you, who will tell us about her involvement, and the house she designed for it. And I’ll also be talking about what’s been done in the design industry to provide support and help to those impacted by the 2019 / 2020 fires, and where you can go for help with your home design and build right now. And remember too, you can grab a full transcript of this episode, plus get all the links I mention by heading to the show notes. So, let’s hear more from Julie now. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel >>>  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-bushfire-home-design-julie-firkin-part-1See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is Part 2 of my conversation with Jeff Dau, from Ember Bushfire Consulting.  In this episode, I’ll be talking more with Jeff about building and renovating in bushfire prone areas, or on land that has a bushfire overlay.  Specifically, we’ll be discussing how to manage a BAL 40 or BAL Flame Zone rating, understanding distances to vegetation, sprinkler systems, and some of the other strategies you can use in building well in these areas. Plus other info I know you’ll find helpful. If you haven’t listened to Part 1, pause this podcast, and head back do that now. We’ll be here when you get back.  Otherwise, let’s dive into Part 2 now. SHOW NOTES: Jeff Dau, is a Bushfire Consultant with Ember Bushfire Consulting. EMBER Bushfire Consultants are a team of qualified, accredited and experienced fire industry professionals. They are all accredited Bushfire Consultants under the Fire Protection Association of Australia accreditation scheme, and their accreditation is your assurance that their knowledge and advice is current and that our delivery of service is of the highest level. Co-Founder, Jeff Dau, has had 23 years of experience as a professional in the fire services industry. Jeff has a Bachelor of Applied Science (Environmental Science) and two Graduate Diplomas being Fire Safety Engineering and Bushfire Protection. Ember takes a “whole of life” approach, offering consulting services for all stages of development. This includes a range of consulting services focussed on assessing new development and construction on Bushfire Prone Land, and prescribing bushfire protection measures to minimise the potential impact of bushfires on life and property. Ember services local government areas across the Central Tablelands, Southern Tablelands, Snowy Mountains, South West Slopes and South Coast in NSW.  So, let’s hear more from Jeff now. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw] for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-bushfire-consultant-jeff-dau-part-2  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we meet Jeff Dau, who is a bushfire consultant.  If you have a bushfire overlay, or discover any type of bushfire requirements on your land’s zoning, a bushfire consultant will be an essential team member to help shape your design, and your approach to building well. This is part 1 of my conversation with Jeff Dau, and is packed full of helpful know-how and insights.  Let’s dive in now. SHOW NOTES: EMBER Bushfire Consulting are a team of qualified, accredited and experienced fire industry professionals. They take great pride in delivering professional consulting services in a personalised, cost effective and service oriented manner. Their work is provided at the highest industry standard and they are all accredited Bushfire Consultants under the Fire Protection Association of Australia accreditation scheme. Co-Founder, Jeff Dau, has had 23 years of experience as a professional in the fire services industry. Over recent years, this has been in a range of fire safety fields including fire safety engineering, bushfire protection, building certification and regulation and urban planning.  Ember takes a “whole of life” approach, offering consulting services for all stages of development. This includes doing bushfire assessments, as well as pre-purchase advice, and larger scale advice for developments and subdivisions. Ember services local government areas across the Central Tablelands, Southern Tablelands, Snowy Mountains, South West Slopes and South Coast in NSW.  Many of these areas have been heavily impacted by the Black Summer fires in Australia, and so I’m really looking forward to talking with Jeff about how homeowners in bushfire prone areas can build homes that are more resistant and resilient to bushfire events, and what we’ve seen in these bushfires that can help us build better in the future. In this episode, Jeff will be sharing some really helpful info, including understanding more about Bushfire Attack Level, or BAL Ratings; what to know about Asset Protection Zones, and more details about AS3959, the Australian Standards for Construction in Bushfire Prone Areas … plus loads more.  So, let’s hear more from Jeff now. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw] for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-bushfire-consultant-jeff-dau-part-1See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is Part 3 of my conversation with David Clarke from Solve My Claim. In it, David will be helping us understand some specific terminology in your insurance policy, and also how to protect yourself when making your claims. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 or Part 2, pause this podcast, and head back do that now. We’ll be here when you get back.  Otherwise, let’s dive into Part 3 now (and check resources for more helpful links and the transcript to this episode). SHOW NOTES: In November, 2008, we went through The Gap storms. A big Silky Oak fell on our roof and cracked it open. Rain poured in through the ceiling and window heads, over furniture and rugs, and through the timber floorboards into the garage below. A few days later, heavy rains came again, and flooded the home. Then ensued a 13 month battle with our insurer debating what was ‘flood damage’, what was ‘water damage’, what was damage made by a ‘storm-created opening’. We finally settled for 5X what they initially offered … it was the difference between $20,000 and $100,000.  The stress was beyond anything I’d experienced. We really felt each step was an attempt to wear us down and settle for what we were being offered. My hubby and I both seemed to alternate being stubborn and not wanting to back down, so we just kept going.  David Keane started Solve My Claim in 2014 after realising people in this situation often had nowhere to turn. For David, this is about levelling the playing field, and about providing social justice at times when people really need it.  Having worked inside the insurance industry for so many years, David got fed up with seeing it unfairly handle people’s claims, and then what that would mean for the long term livelihood and lifestyle of those impacted. In an industry full of jargon and specific processes, it can be unnerving for anyone tackling it for the first time, especially when they have lost their entire home and belongings. And so, Solve My Claim provides support and fairness for those struggling with their insurance claims. They use their knowledge of how insurance policies work to argue for those making claims. And they’ve achieved more than $35 million worth of increased claim settlements in the past 3 years alone. Solve My Claim provides expert support and assistance to anyone struggling with their insurance claims. Their main office is in Alice Springs, and they assist with claims across the whole nation of Australia. In Part 3 of our conversation, David will help us understand some specifics about your insurance policy so you know what you’re entitled to. And what to do about getting independent information to check what you’re being offered is fair.  And, we discuss the steps straight after you’re dealing with damage and loss, so you can notify your insurer as required PLUS get you ducks in a row as well. So, let’s hear more. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel (can you link that to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-making-an-insurance-claim-solve-my-claim-part-3See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we’ll be talking with David Keane, from Solve My Claim. We’re specifically talking about insurance claims, and what might happen if you don’t want to rebuild what you lost, or have only suffered partial damage to your property. If you haven’t listened to Part 1, pause this podcast, and head back do that now. We’ll be here when you get back.  Otherwise, let’s dive into Part 2 now (and check resources for more helpful links and the transcript to this episode). SHOW NOTES: Solve My Claim provides expert support and assistance to anyone struggling with their insurance claims. Their main office is in Alice Springs, and they assist with claims across the whole nation of Australia. Solve My Claim’s director, David Keane, has been involved in the insurance industry (primarily in the area of claims management, loss adjusting and assessing services), for more than 24 years.  Solve My Claim has expertise in property, motor vehicle, business and other commercial claims, and can assist in a wide range of circumstances. They are unique in the industry, in that they are genuinely independent.  They have no affiliations with any insurance company or brokerage, and they do not receive any commissions from any source. In essence, they are their clients’ very own ‘claims department’, and they only work for them. Solve My Claim has helped many hundreds of Australian families resolve disputed claims from Cyclone Marcia (Rockhampton 2015), Cyclone Debbie (Whitsundays 2017), Sydney Hailstorms (December 2018) and Townsville Floods (February 2019), plus a large number of regular non-catastrophe claims, and have achieved more than $35 million worth of increase claims settlements in the past 3 years alone. In Part 2 of our conversation, I ask David about some specific insurance claim scenarios, and what he suggests to best navigate them so you can protect yourself, and set yourself up for a successful process. So, let’s hear more. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-making-an-insurance-claim-solve-my-claim-part-2See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! In this episode, I’m kicking off a 3-part episode conversation with David Keane from Solve My Claim. Solve my Claim provides expert support and assistance to anyone struggling with their insurance claims. And having gone through this personally, I’m so glad to introduce David Keane to you. If you ever need to purchase insurance for your home, or need to make a claim on your policy, what David will be sharing is essential knowledge so you don’t get caught out.  David is an experienced and wise voice to help you navigate what can seem confusing. And especially during the stressful time of making a claim, this is such helpful guidance. So, let’s dive in (and check resources for more helpful links and the transcript to this episode). SHOW NOTES: David is the Director of Solve My Claim, and he has been involved in the insurance industry for more than 24 years. During this time, he was constantly amazed at how many people came to him with insurance problems, complaints, disputes and claims problems. In every instance, he was able to resolve those claims. He realised that there was nowhere for these people to turn, and that realisation started a process that resulted in the creation of Solve My Claim in 2014. Many people feel disempowered when making an insurance claim, because the company has a team of experts acting for them, and you are all on your own. Well not any longer! Solve My Claim is levelling the playing field, and ensuring that you have the best possible opportunity to solve your claim. Personally, and I’ll share more about this in a future episode, my husband and I once spent 13 months battling our insurance company to secure our claim. During the storms that went through The Gap in November, 2008, our home suffered a fair amount of damage including that from a large Silky Oak tree that fell on the house.  After dealing with our insurer, and then their underwriter, and then the Ombudsman, we finally received a settlement that was over 5 times the initial claim offer; an amount actually reflected the true value of loss and damage.  Which was a great result, however all up, it was 13 months of stress and battle, and needed huge determination and tenacity. A massive folder thick with letters and schedules and quotes. I was pregnant and had our 2nd bub during this time. After the storm, we were left with one room in the house that was liveable. We were also mid renovation, and so we were having to fix up the damage to the house at our own expense as well.  If Solve My Claim had existed, I would have used them in a heartbeat.  With the recent bushfires in Australia, and then also other significant weather events such as hail storms and flooding, many homeowners are now dealing with how to move on, and navigate the insurance process to enable them to rebuild and restore some normalcy to their lives. If this is your situation, I am so sorry you’ve had to go through this. David Keane has helped many homeowners get much better outcomes from their insurers and be in a better position to plan their recovery. In fact, they’ve achieved more than $35 million worth of increased claim settlements in the last 3 years. In Part 1 of our conversation, you'll hear why Solve My Claim exists, some specific things to know about insurance claims involving total loss and your sum insured, and specific policy inclusions that may give you extra scope (such as additional benefits clauses etc). And also how to assess early cash settlements being offered. So, let’s hear more. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-making-an-insurance-claim-solve-my-claim-part-1  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild Welcome to the first and introductory episode of Season 12, Rebuild + Build Better. This season of the podcast is a range of conversations with some fantastic experts and professionals.  And we’re diving into a range of topics related to rebuilding after bushfires, building or renovating in bushfire-prone areas, and, more generally, designing and building more resilient homes. In this introduction episode, I’m going to introduce the season give you some background information, and  highlight some of the guests we have coming up.  And I’m also going to encourage you to stay tuned, even if you aren’t rebuilding or building in a bushfire prone area, because there will be some incredible gold nuggets of advice and wisdom shared in this season that can really help anyone who is wanting to build a more resilient home. And it’s also worth mentioning that we’re sharing the videos of these interviews on Undercover Architect’s YouTube channel as well, and all the transcripts will be available on the blog too.  So whether you like to listen, watch or read, we’ve got you covered. I know some rebuilding don’t have internet access still, or are working off their mobile data, so I thought maybe a friend may be able to print the transcripts and pass them on … so please do that if you know of someone who needs this info. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-and-build-better  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This episode is a one-off I’m doing to catch you up on a few things that have been happening behind the scenes at Undercover Architect and to also share news on what’s on the horizon. I’ve got some super helpful info in this episode, so stay tuned. SHOW NOTES: It’s been a very strange time (COVID19, preceded by fires, floods, and where we live, plagues of insects). I hope wherever you are, and whatever has been happening for you, that you’re faring well, and staying safe through all of this. Yet, in the background of all of this, I have been passionate about creating and producing things that can be really helpful for homeowners who are planning to renovate and build, or already in the process of navigating that journey. In this episode, I update you on some fantastic help I’ve been creating over the past couple of months. Firstly, if Kitchen Design is something you need help with, and you’d like to learn the practical formula to designing a stunning kitchen you'll love spending time in ... and that works for you and your family, check out the Kitchen Design Challenge we’ve created at https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/kitchen-design-challenge/ Secondly, if you’re wanting to learn how to find out what it will cost you to build or renovate your home, have reliable information that you can then move forward with, and know how to stay on track (and manage your costs) along the way, then find out more information about How to Set and Stick to Your Budget here https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/set-stick-to-your-budget/ Thirdly, kicking off next Monday, the 18th of May, you’d like to spend 6 weeks getting personalised support from me, as well as learning the best way to navigate your journey towards your future home, and be really well set up as a member of “How to Get it Right”, then head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ And be sure to tune in in a few weeks time, plus tell those you know it’ll help, that we’re starting a new season called REBUILD + BUILD BETTER to help those rebuilding after bushfires, and also help anyone wanting to build more resiliently, or build in a bushfire prone area … which frankly, is a heck of a lot of areas these days given the mapping. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: The Kitchen Design Challenge can be found here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/kitchen-design-challenge/ How to Set + Stick To Your Budget >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/set-stick-to-your-budget/ Our LIVE Round of “How to Get it Right” (starting 18 May, 2020) >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ Read the transcript of this episode here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-the-latest-help-renovating-building  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This, believe it or not, is our final episode for what has been an epic season called “Interior Design Basics”. So, stay tuned, as I do a wrap-up for the season, give you some extra tips and ideas for your home’s interiors, and share some other great info with you. SHOW NOTES: As I said upfront, Interior Design Basics has been an epic season … with this episode being Number 25, and it’s been running since October last year. Phwoar hey? So, let’s do a bit of a wrap-up and reminder of the episodes, and I’ll share some extra tips along the way. You can use this as a reminder of episodes you might want to relisten to, or perhaps missed during the season. Throughout this season, I also shared with you information about our online course, Interior Design 101.  It’s an amazing course, which contains the full versions of all of the interviews I conducted throughout this season, plus loads more helpful info.  What’s brilliant is that we’ve broken each of the interviews into each of the individual questions, so you can literally find exactly what you’re looking for very quickly.  There’s also a design layout video for both bathrooms and kitchens … and I’ll talk a little bit later about the taster quickstart course I created, called the Kitchen Design Challenge, as you may be curious about that too.  If you haven’t checked out Interior Design 101, be sure to do so. It’s a DIY, self-study course, so you can jump in, take your time to work through it, and then grab the template interiors schedule that’s in there, and start working away on your selections for your home. Head to www.interiordesign101.com.au to learn more about the course, and dive in. Alright, let’s begin the season wrap-up! I really hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au Learn more about our fantastic Kitchen Design Challenge >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/kitchen-design-challenge/ For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-interior-design-basics-guideSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re back this week with the gorgeous Jessica Bellef, freelance stylist and author of the amazing book “Individual: Inspiration for creating a home that is uniquely your own”.  This is part 2 of my conversation with her, so if you haven’t listened to the last episode and Part 1, then stop now … and go back to do that straight away. We’ll be here when you’re done. Otherwise, let’s dive into Part 2, and continue hearing from Jess right now. SHOW NOTES: “We all deserve to live unapologetically in homes that reflect who we are. Instead of a cookie-cutter approach, we crave spaces that make us feel secure and connected, nurtured and enriched.” - Jessica Bellef, “Individual” “Individual” is described as a visual feast of 15 quirky Australian interiors brimming with the personality of their owners, where the inspiration is not about buying more stuff but putting your personality into your place. Jessica Bellef is a freelance stylist and writer, who contributes regularly to major interiors publications such as Inside Out and Home Beautiful. She was Temple & Webster's founding Head of Styling, which cemented her position as a home styling commentator and gave her insight into how Australian's make a house a home. Jessica has taught extensively on the topic of creative design. You’ll continue to hear in this episode how knowledgeable Jess is about ways that you can style your home’s interior to really bring out the best of it, and you.  Through the way you choose the colours, furniture, textures, materials and objects you surround yourself with, you can, as Jess says” create an authentic space in which you can thrive. I really hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  Inside Interior Design 101, you’ll also find a huge range of interviews on all things Interior Design, including full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.   Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with every day.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-individual-jessica-bellef-part-2 Buy Jessica’s book, “Individual” here >> https://amzn.to/33PJTeWSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the first in a 2-part interview with Jessica Bellef, freelance stylist, and author of “Individual: Inspiration for creating a home that is uniquely your own”. I’m super excited to be bringing Jess to you, and sharing all her amazing insight and tips for creating a home that truly suits and reflects you. Let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: A showroom is no place to live. It’s like the set of a play … A showroom isn’t a personal space in which to be. It’s no place for the tangle of layered memories and the mercurial nature of daily life. - Jessica Bellef, “Individual” Jessica Bellef is a freelance stylist and writer, who contributes regularly to major interiors publications such as Inside Out and Home Beautiful. She was Temple & Webster's founding Head of Styling, which cemented her position as a home styling commentator and gave her insight into how Australian's make a house a home. Jessica has taught extensively on the topic of creative design. Her book, “Individual: Inspiration for creating a home that is uniquely your own” was published in Oct 2019. “Individual” journeys to 15 truly unique homes that are authentic reflections of the people who inhabit them, from an art-filled city terrace to a magical seaside shack and a 1970s-era palace in the ’burbs.  It’s packed full of practical, actionable tips, and Jessica has a brilliant way of giving you how-to’s that are achievable regardless of the size or type of home, and whether you would call yourself stylish or not. I really hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  Inside Interior Design 101, you’ll also find a huge range of interviews on all things Interior Design, including full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.   Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with everyday.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-individual-jessica-bellef-part-1 Buy Jessica’s book, “Individual” here >> https://amzn.to/33PJTeW See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

My guest for this episode is Craig Thomas, Managing Director of Caribou. With over 20 years in the industry, he is SUPER passionate about lighting and the impact it can have on how our homes look, feel and function. He’s got loads of helpful tips to share with you. SHOW NOTES: Homeowners often create their lighting design through early conversations with their electrician. By then, you can already have missed the opportunity to create a beautiful, functional result in your home, through successful (and affordable) lighting design. Craig Thomas, Managing Director of Caribou, has over 20 years in the business, and has a huge wealth of knowledge and experience to share when it comes to achieving brilliant results with your lighting design and selections. Caribou is a professional, dedicated and experienced team providing lighting solutions for residential, retail, commercial and industrial projects. Based in Brisbane, Australia, Caribou works directly with architects and designers, lighting engineers, developers and builders, wholesalers, electricians and homeowners.  For the UA home-owning audience, Caribou offer architectural interior and exterior lighting solutions to create a lifestyle that enhances your home inside and out. They understand that each project is unique and personal. Their extensive lighting collection ensures they have the solution to suit your home. And if you need help with your lighting design, they can do this too. There’s loads of helpful information packed into this episode. I really hope you enjoy it - listen now. I really hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  Inside Interior Design 101, Craig answers additional questions such as: How to provide creative and functional lighting solutions in your bedrooms. He has some great tips for subtle lighting that helps with night-time navigation in the home, and creates a great effect. We also talk about the assumptions people make with lighting that he finds he’s regularly busting And he takes us through in detail how to choose the right lighting for your main areas based on lumens, watts and the other metrics that describe lighting types and fixtures. The full interview with Craig is now inside Interior Design 101. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with every day.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-lighting-design-caribou  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is the second of a 2-part interview I have with Evan Montero, Co-founder and managing director of DIY Blinds … so if you haven’t listened to the last episode, stop now, and go back and listen to it now. Or, stay tuned to listen to part 2 of my conversation with Evan. SHOW NOTES: Plantation Shutters have become a popular choice for window furnishings. They’re a big investment, and so getting it right is essential to avoid disappointment and cost blowouts. DIY Blinds is an online ordering site for window furnishings. With a huge range of products from blinds, to curtains, to plantation shutters, you have the ability to request fabric samples, choose your fabric, learn how to measure and install your blinds, and order them online … all from your sofa.  The DIY Blinds website does a great job of stepping you through the things you need to consider, and how to make your selections. And they’re made in Australia, mostly available within 2 weeks, and also have a 5 year warranty. Co-Founder Evan Montero and I are continuing our conversation by talking about plantation shutters. These are a super popular choice and also can be a big investment, so Evan has some great tips to think about.  We also talk more about key design decisions and some fantastic things you can do with your window furnishings if you think about them during the design of your home.  And Evan shares more information on the mistakes he sees homeowners make. Plus, he talks us through how to confidently order your window furnishings online.  Having done it myself, I know it can feel a little nerve-wracking that you may stuff up your measurements and end up with a bunch of window furnishings you’ve paid for but that don’t fit properly.  DIY Blinds has got some great support and online resources to help you do this, and can also talk you through how to get it right for your home. I really hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  And as a member of Interior Design 101, Evan is offering a fantastic saving on your DIY Blind orders … which frankly could pay for the cost of the course on its own! You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with everyday.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-diyblinds-plantation-shuttersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People who are renovating or building new will often leave window furnishings until the last minute, or until after they’ve moved in. As a result, they miss huge opportunities.  So, this episode and the next will be brilliant for you to see what’s possible, and why thinking about them during the design phase is so important. DIY Blinds is an online ordering site for window furnishings. With a huge range of products from blinds, to curtains, to plantation shutters, you have the ability to request fabric samples, choose your fabric, learn how to measure and install your blinds, and order them online … all from your sofa.  The DIY Blinds website does a great job of stepping you through the things you need to consider, and how to make your selections. And they’re made in Australia, mostly available within 2 weeks, and also have a 5 year warranty. Evan is really passionate about homeowners knowing what they need to know, and also what’s possible in really elevating the detailing and finish of a home when you get these things factored in early to your project.  And he’s also really passionate about giving homeowners access to more affordable and great quality products by offering them online, and empowering them to directly access what they want, in a way that’s easy to understand. In this first part of our interview, Evan shares info about why DIY Blinds started, some of the biggest mistakes homeowners make about window furnishings, and specific info on blinds and curtains.  I really hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  And as a member of Interior Design 101, Evan is offering a fantastic saving on your DIY Blind orders … which frankly could pay for the cost of the course on its own! You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with everyday.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-diyblinds-curtains-blindsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Choosing the best paint product can seem confusing. Are they really that different? The answer is “YES”, and this episode shares why. Josh is the Interior Products Technical Manager at the DuluxGroup. What does that mean? Well, Josh and his team are the ones responsible for all the science and technology behind the paints and products created by Dulux. If you’re picturing labs and white lab coats, you’re not far wrong.  Josh has a Bachelor of Applied Science in Chemistry and has worked as an Industrial Chemist. He’s won awards for his skills as a technologist, and I’m super excited to be bringing him to the UA Community. I see homeowners get really focussed on their colour and material selections for their interiors, but then will often not get involved in the actual product specification process.  This is particularly relevant for painting, when you may be using a painter for your project, and often simply going with the product and brand they use and recommend.  It’s worth understanding though, that not all paints are the same, and specific areas require specific products for long-term performance, durability and ease of maintenance. In this interview, Josh helps us understand more about the science of interior paint products, and what to consider when making your selections, whether it’s: for different surface types such as your woodwork or walls or ceilings for different rooms such as your wet areas or living spaces and for different gloss levels as well.  It’s amazing to see how much testing and research goes into the creation of the paint products we use, and how that can help us have products that stand the test of time and survive family life in our homes. I really hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  In this full interview featured inside Interior Design 101, Josh and I talk through in detail about specific things to know for your Interior Paint Product selections, and making the best choice. Check out Interior Design 101 as the full interview is available in there now. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with everyday.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-dulux-paintSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Frances and I see homeowners regularly make some common mistakes when it comes to their interior design.  This can be related to  who they choose,  how they go about their design and selections,  decisions they make about specific elements of their interior design elements they forget to consider in the design phase that then get stuffed up during construction right through to missed opportunities and expensive errors So, it made sense for us to talk about the ones we feel are not only regularly made, but have the most significant impact in diminishing the feel and functionality of your home. Listen carefully, so you can learn how to avoid these for your project, and hopefully save yourself money, stress and drama not only in the process of your interior design, but in the result you create in your finished home. I hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  Inside Interior Design 101, Frances and I share additional mistakes that we see people make, and our recommendations for what to do instead, so your project can go more smoothly and you can get the result you want in your home’s interior design. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project. Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with every day.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-worst-interior-design-mistakesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’re designing your new home or renovation, have you started thinking about the lighting design?  I find many homeowners will leave their lighting design quite late in their project. Some even leave it as late as construction, waiting for their walk-around with their electrician at frame stage to finalise their choices on lighting numbers, types and positions. As you can imagine, waiting until your walk-around can cause extra costs and disappointment, as often your contract will not have a sufficient allowance for light fixtures, and you’ll be hit with a variation … and the higher margin to go along with it. Lighting can and should be a design process you work through similarly to the rest of your interiors. Considering how it will work functionally, as well as the feeling and mood it’s capable of creating, means you’ll optimise what’s possible for your budget and your home.  There’s a lot of terminology when it comes to lighting, and specific things to look at when choosing light fixtures that will provide the atmosphere you’re seeking. Whether it’s to light a specific task, to create a focal point or feature in a room, or to provide flexibility in the various ways a room or space needs to function, so much is available to you with lighting design.  Lighting is an aspect of your interior design that can have a HUGE impact on the feel and function of your home. So, including it in your design process is essential for maximising what’s possible. I hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  Inside Interior Design 101, Frances and I talk in more detail about lighting design, so be sure to check out Interior Design 101 as the full interview is available in there now. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with every day.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-lighting-design-interior  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you create the ideal Interior Design ‘look’ for your family home? Liz Hayward from Hayward & Co gives us tips on moodboards, creating interior palettes, and making confident choices for your interior design. Liz is a firm believer that a quality, thoughtful, tailored interior should be available to everyone and that amazing results can be achieved on almost any budget. Following her years spent in professional roles working in and around the interior design sphere, the establishment of a bespoke interior decoration agency represents a new and exciting phase in Liz's creative journey. Based on her instinctive ability to see the possibilities of any space she enters, Liz has developed a design process that is as calm and considered as the interiors she ultimately creates. Combining the many snippets of inspiration she collects from the decors she encounters each day with the tastes and input of her clients', Liz designs timeless interiors that reflect the unique personas of the people that inhabit them. Liz’s work and skill of creating beautiful spaces was recently recognised when she was awarded a top finalist position in the Home Beautiful - 50 Most Beautiful Rooms competition. Hayward & Co is based in Sydney, and offers a range of interior design and decorating services, from full collaborations for the duration of your project, through to one-off consultations. They also provide a great e-decorating service where you can work with them online to get assistance quickly and affordably.  And Liz has recently launched a new on-tap interior design online service as well, so there are loads of ways you can access interior design support for your project, and work with her. I hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  Inside Interior Design 101, Liz and I talk in more detail about creating your interior design palette and choosing finishes and fixtures that will truly suit you, your lifestyle and help you feel confident about the home environment you’re creating. Check out Interior Design 101 as the full interview is available in there now, and available as video and audio version. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with everyday.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-liz-hayward-interior-designer  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do you need to know about choosing your bathroom fixtures? Daniela Santilli, Bathroom Marketing Leader for Reece tells us. Your bathroom fixtures - the basin, vanity, bath, shower and toilet - are all very permanent choices in your home’s bathrooms. Getting them right at the beginning is critical to a functioning home.  Daniela Santilli is the Bathroom Marketing Leader for Reece Plumbing, and has been with the business for 11.5 years. Heading up the bathroom marketing business at Reece brings together her passion for beautiful, functional design and architecture with her commitment to outstanding customer experience in retail. The Reece group operates Australia’s largest plumbing and bathroom supplies business, as well as 8 others in allied industries. Reece’s plumbing and bathroom products are sourced both locally and internationally which you can find in over 600 locations across Australia and New Zealand. They’re continually expanding into fresh areas, developing new technologies and systems and pioneering innovative plumbing and bathroom products. I’m talking with Daniela about bathrooms, and how to confidently select the various fixtures you need for your bathrooms.  Daniela is a wealth of knowledge, tips and advice when it comes to making the best selections for your interior plumbing fixtures. It’s so great to be bringing you this expertise. I hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  In this full interview featured inside Interior Design 101, Daniela and I talk in a lot more detail about the information in this podcast. We also discuss tapware and what you need to know to choose well, and Daniela shares some exciting information about improvements being made in specific fixtures as well. And I also ask Daniela how she suggests homeowners be confident in their decisions and balance their budget with their dreams of a luxurious bathroom. So if you’re keen to learn more about those things, then check out Interior Design 101 as the full interview is available in there now. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with every day.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-reece-bathroom  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How can you, as the homeowner, draw up 3D models of your new home or renovation design? So you can be sure you’ve got it right inside a computer BEFORE you commit to building it? You can learn Sketchup. (Check out https://undercoverarchitect.com/sketchup) Sketchup is a great piece of software that’s available both as a free and paid version, that enables you to draw you design in three dimensions, generate views and walk-throughs so you can experience it inside the computer before committing to it for your real life, and also generate drawings from. Clare Le Roy is an interior designer, educator and Mum of 3 boys, and her business is The Little Design Corner. And she’s also the creator of “Sketchup for Interior Design - Beginners Course”. And now, Clare is an approved training partner for Sketchup. Clare created this course because she wished it had been around when it had first started her business. It would have saved my hundreds of hours of searching YouTube videos and making lots of mistakes, rather than doing the fun stuff (creating awesome designs!).  This course has been made to help a range of users - the home renovator, designer/decorator or design enthusiast - learn SketchUp quickly and correctly so you can get up and running with it as fast as possible. In this episode, we talk about how Sketchup works, all the things you can do with it, and how you can simply learn it, and use it for your project. I hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  In this full interview featured inside Interior Design 101, Daniela and I talk in a lot more detail about the information in this podcast. We also discuss tapware and what you need to know to choose well, and Daniela shares some exciting information about improvements being made in specific fixtures as well. And I also ask Daniela how she suggests homeowners be confident in their decisions and balance their budget with their dreams of a luxurious bathroom. So if you’re keen to learn more about those things, then check out Interior Design 101 as the full interview is available in there now. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with everyday.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Check out how Sketchup can work, and more about Clare’s online course >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/sketchup Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/sketchupSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In my experience, bathrooms often follow kitchens as an area where a huge amount of deliberation happens as homeowners work through their interior design selections. Many homes these days will have more than one bathroom. There may be a separate toilet or powder room as well. And so you can be juggling the selections for not one room, but several. Do they all need to be matchy matchy? Can they be different? And how does what you select here then relate to other wet areas such as your laundry as well. In this episode, France and I talk through the various selections you’ll need to make for your bathroom, and what to know so you’re choosing things that are durable, easy to clean and will function well. We dive into detail into shower screens, freestanding vs built-in baths, and selecting all the fixtures so that they’re timeless and well-coordinated.   During our conversation, we dive into … + shower screens + freestanding vs built-in baths + fixtures such as your towel rails, tapware and handles, and how to coordinate + other key decisions you need to remember in your wet areas I hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  In this full interview featured inside Interior Design 101, Frances and I also talk about your joinery, and I give you more information if you’re seeking to do a groutless bathroom. I also have a lesson on bathroom design layout, and all the dimensions you need to know and how to size and arrange things in your bathroom, powder room and ensuite.   You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with everyday.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-bathroom  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is choosing the right colour for your home something you’re enjoying, or overwhelmed by? Dulux have been helping homeowners do this with their colour forecasting for over 20 years now. I speak with Andrea Lucena-Orr, Colour and Communications Manager for the Dulux Group, about choosing colour, and their annual Colour Forecasting.  Andrea joined the company with a strong background in colour and design. Her role at Dulux Group encompasses trends and colour forecasting and presenting her findings to trade, retail and media – and of course her recommendations play an integral part in Dulux Group marketing strategies. A member of the international Colour Marketing Group (CMG) and International Color Association (AIC), Andrea scours the globe in pursuit of her passion – colour forecasting. Dulux has been officially colour forecasting for 21 years.  In September 2019, they released their latest: 2020’s colour forecast, which is united by the theme “Essence”.  There are 4 key colour palettes: Cultivate, Comeback, Grounded and Indulge.  Each of these palettes speak to a different idea or inspiration, and contain a range of their own stunning colours. Andrea and her team have created some amazing collateral to highlight these colour palettes.  Andrea says “Colour is an essential ingredient in everything I do. It has an amazing power to transform spaces and I love the emotional connections you can create through personalising colour schemes.” Andrea has been with Dulux for 21 years. Her passion and eye for colour, and her skill in identifying the colours we will truly want to have around us in our homes and lives, is incredible. I can’t wait to share her wisdom and advice with you ... I really hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  In this full interview featured inside Interior Design 101, Andrea and I talk more about colour, including …  how Dulux have developed their colours to help us live more calmly, and access more happiness in our homes where to start when you want to personalise your home and be braver with colour how to choose a white … especially given how many there are to choose from and Andrea’s advice for putting together colour schemes, thinking about cool vs warm, and how electrical lighting can impact your choices So if you’re keen to learn more about those things, then check out Interior Design 101 as the full interview is available in there now. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or a smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with every day.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-dulux-colourSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join the free 5 Day Home Design Challenge (it’s running from 29 Jan - 2 Feb 2020) >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/challenge And check out Home Design Masterclass for more help and support in your floor plan design >>> www.howtodesignahome.com It can be common for homeowners to get really caught up in worrying about the finishes, the builder, the quality of construction. But one thing I know for sure is this: you can have a home with all the high-end finishes, built by the most amazing builder to the highest quality, and still have a terrible design that makes the home horrible to live in on a day-to-day basis. I firmly believe that those lines on a page, the drawings that you’re creating either by yourself, or in working with someone, will dictate how you get to live, feel and function both in and beyond your home for years and years to come. And I think it can be the most frustrating and slow part of the renovating or building process for homeowners, for a few reasons. Sooo … is it possible to design your home without an architect? Well, in a lot of places around the world, and especially in Australia, it is. In fact, in Australia, the only part of the process you need a professional for is to prepare your approval drawings, because there are certain benchmarks you need to satisfy to present your plans for council and building approval. However, you’re planning to, or currently creating your design for your new home or renovation … whether you’re working with a professional or not … I did want to share the key ways to approach and work through your design process so that you get it right. So, you can make sure this happens if you’re designing your home yourself OR you can keep your designer accountable to providing this level of service to you as they work with you. There are 3 main investigations I see missing from the design process when a homeowner does it themselves, or they work with a professional who doesn’t use a holistic design approach. And remember I said the things that happen when a home isn’t designed well, it can mean the home is ... uncomfortable to live in,  expensive to heat and cool,  lacks flexibility for family life over the long term, and completely waste the opportunities available for their site and their budget  When certain investigations don’t happen during the design process, it’s, unfortunately, more likely to end up with a home that doesn’t work. Because if you don’t include these 3 things, these methods of examination or investigation, then you completely miss crucial information to inform your design with.  LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Join the free challenge (running 29 Jan - 2 Feb 2020) >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/challenge Learn more about ‘Home Design Masterclass’ >>> www.howtodesignahome.com Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-how-to-design-a-home-without-an-architect for the transcript of this podcast.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! In the last of our special Q & A episodes, Brett has a brilliant question about working out costs early in his project, and Patricia wants some info on skylights. So, let’s dive in. Want to get it right in your home design? Watch my free online workshop, where I share 5 key ways (plus lots of other tips and strategies) >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ THIS EPISODE’S QUESTIONS ... Brett has this question: “Good day Amelia, my name's Brett. I'm from Perth in Western Australia. We've got a young family, two little kids, and we're in the process of planning and designing our future forever home.  Being a mechanical engineer, I'm big with planning, designing and quantifying decisions. While the technical stuff I'm comfortable with, what I'm having trouble with is the costing side.  There's a lot of information out there on general square meterage cost of a typical home for this and that what I'm wondering what resources and how would one go about getting a bit more detail in initial first pass costing for the different concepts and building systems and approaches to building a home. Not looking for high level detail that you'd get from a quantity surveyor, but I'm keen to be able to get a feel for myself as to the differences in costs to use brick over timber framing, using slab floor over timber flooring, and different ways of doing roof systems and the implication of costs.  Just so I can get a feel for the implications of these different designs and building systems and ideas that I've got. And how they're going to change the costs. So I can make these very early stage basic conceptual decisions about where to head with the design of the home before I go jumping in with a desired approach that completely doesn't suit budgets.  Hope you can help. I love your podcasts, have listened to everything single one - extremely beneficial. Keep up the great work.” And Patricia wants to know if she can get more light from her Velux: “Hello, Amelia. My name is Patricia from Victoria. We are planning to build, but in the meantime I would like more light.  There is a Velux in the living room ceiling, 50 centimetre by 1.3 metre. It's not flush with the ceiling. Is it possible to enlarge the casement to provide a wider angle of light, and how much more light could we get? Thank you.” LISTEN TO MY ANSWERS NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Watch the free online workshop now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-question-and-answer-home-design-budgetSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to get it right in your home design? Watch my free online workshop, where I share 5 key ways (plus lots of other tips and strategies) >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ THIS EPISODE’S QUESTION ... Laura’s question: “Hi, Amelia. My name is Laura. I live in Perth in Western Australia. Firstly, I just want to say thanks so much for your podcast. I've gotten a heap of great information and ideas from it. I guess we've got a bit of a situation where we would really love your advice or just thoughts on best ways to move forward. We bought our house six years ago in Perth, right before the market crashed. We bought in a high point, it's since crashed, hence we have no equity in our home. We also bought our home sight unseen, which sounds crazy, but it was actually built by my husband's Pop (grandfather) in 1949. We always used to drive past the outside and we kind of thought how bad can it be inside. Well, let's just say it needs a lot of love, attention, and money spent on it. We're at the point now, after getting married, having our children, where we would like to do some updates to the house. It really needs work. It's full of asbestos, it's tiny, lots of things going on. The first thing we actually wanted to do was pop in a new kitchen. So I recently did your Kitchen Design Challenge, which was awesome. However, just to get our room to the point where we can put in a new kitchen, the quotes I was getting ... I was just blown away. I just thought "this is the start of a very long and difficult process". So we're just sort of weighing it all up. Considering we don't have equity in the home, do we just do these renovations tiny bit-by-bit? It's honestly, I know how much work and money it's going to take. I'm pretty realistic about that. However, we do love our home. We love our block, we love our suburb.  There is the option to actually build, because we have a wide frontage, (so we could) build new next to our existing house and then knock down. However, we are in a bushfire-prone area as well, so those costs need to be taken into consideration and I feel we would actually overcapitalise a little bit. I'm not sure, but all I know is that would be quite a few years away, to be able to do that. Option number three is what my husband is sort of pushing for, and that's to actually just sell and cut our losses. In doing that though, we would have to move back in with his parents, which is fine, they're amazing. But obviously we're in our 30's, we have three kids. It's not really the ideal situation, but we would have to do that in order to save for a deposit for a new home because I feel we would probably actually take a loss on this home just considering how the market's gone. So those are our three options at the moment. I have gone round in circles so many times about what the best course of action for our family would be. I know that you can't answer that for us, but I would just really appreciate your thoughts on this and any advice you might have for us. Thanks, Amelia. Bye.” LISTEN TO MY ANSWER NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Watch the free online workshop now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-question-and-answer-do-we-renovate-or-sell  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to get it right in your home design? Watch my free online workshop, where I share 5 key ways (plus lots of other tips and strategies) >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ THIS EPISODE’S QUESTIONS ... Teri has this question: “Hi, my name is Teri Mason. I'm in Oklahoma in the United States, and we are building a family and event centre, and we're wanting to do it in biophilic design. We've done a tremendous amount of research. It's been quite a process, but with it being a little more unknown, obviously, the resources are a little more scarce, and I would love to hear your input as far as what would you do to bring in more natural elements? Looking for shapes or inspiration areas or resources or just anything you could just speak to that, just make it a great place, I would truly appreciate it.” And Felicity is curious about her windows: “Hi, I'm Felicity from Victoria, doing a renovation. Just wondering whether or not cathedral or highlight windows up high facing north to south should open or just be fixed. The other window in the area is double-hung window across in the living room. Thank you.” LISTEN TO MY ANSWERS NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Watch the free online workshop now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-question-and-answer-biophilic-design-windowsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to get it right in your home design? Watch my free online workshop, where I share 5 key ways (plus lots of other tips and strategies) >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ THIS EPISODE’S QUESTIONS ... Meredith’s question: “Hi, Amelia. My name is Meredith. I'm really enjoying your podcast. Thank you so much for sharing all of your knowledge.  We're currently living in Queensland. We plan on building a retirement/holiday home on acreage in Victoria in the next couple of years.  We've been looking at the option of building a modular home and wondering if you will be covering this subject (modular and prefab homes), in any future podcasts.  Also, at any particular things I need to look out for when designing and planning a modular home. Thank you.” And Gabrielle had this question: “Hi Amelia. My name is Gabrielle. I live on the South coast of Victoria. We've recently bought a block, a beautiful block. It is South-looking, it overlooks a river. It's gorgeous, and we'd love to build our dream home on there. I've looked through and heard all your podcasts and look through lots of the information about building south and we'll certainly incorporate plenty of your suggestions about bringing north light into the home. However, where we live is quite cold much of the year. We only get a handful of really hot days, and so then, when we're designing our living and alfresco spaces, I'm wondering whether we should be designing to the southeast or the southwest. When you're in a really cold climate, is western afternoon, evening sun still the devil, or is it something we can actually utilise to warm up our living areas in the evening? Any recommendations would be gratefully appreciated.” LISTEN TO MY ANSWERS NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Watch the free online workshop now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-question-and-answer-prefab-homes-south-facing-design See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to get it right in your home design? Watch my free online workshop, where I share 5 key ways (plus lots of other tips and strategies) >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ THIS EPISODE’S QUESTIONS ... Elizabeth got in touch: “Hi Amelia. My name's Elizabeth. I'm in Castle Hill in New South Wales. First up, thank you for producing such a fabulous podcast, and providing so much fantastic, informative, entertaining and helpful information. It's made a huge difference to how I'm approaching the design of our new home. And that new home we're planning to build in 2020, just as soon as we settle the sale of our current home, and find the right block of land. I will be living in that home with my husband and our three boys who will be 16, 14 and 11 by that stage, and our two very boisterous Standard Labradoodles, and six budgies live in a large cage in our house. I'm very passionate about this home, embracing all things sustainability, and I'm quite intrigued by some of the alternative prefabricated panel constructions that I've seen on Grand Designs over the years that seem to be more prevalent in Europe than in Australia. I know there are concrete, and structural insulated panels and cross-laminated timbers and a whole lot of other acronyms, but I don't know much more than that. So, I'm wondering, what are the benefits of using the prefabricated panels, and the different types, and how they stack up against regular brick and timber construction? Do they impact the flexibility of the design, the durability of the design, cost, time to build and sustainability, and can they be used to achieve a Passive House status? Thank you. That's a lot of question, but I'm really looking forward to hearing your answer. And once again, thank you for such a great podcast, and all the information you provide to all of us.” And Nicola had this question: “Hi, I'm Nicola. I live two hours north of Auckland in New Zealand. I've been listening to your podcast from day one. Fantastic.  We've just downsized and bought a three bedroom, two bathroom home. We had moved from a five bedroom plus study plus three bathroom home, thanks to your podcasts. And we've been able to renovate.  So my question is … everybody was talking on Houzz (and some of the architects on Houzz), saying that walk-in pantries were so yester-year, and also sort of breakfast bars and bar stools were yester-year. And we actually put in a black kitchen with French Oak laminate drawers, and white around the fridge and the oven. So we've got big black benches, and a couple of those cupboards are black ... so wood and black and white is our kitchen. Have you found with clients that black is staying? It's a very kind of 'out there' colour because it came in a few years ago, and we didn't ever use it in the 1980s. Is black still in and will it stay in for a wee while?  And also this breakfast bar idea. We have a table that we sit at, as well. We don't just perch up on stools. It seems like polls that they do on Houzz and places like that ... half and half people love breakfast bar or they don't. I love mine. I'm happy with it.  And if you think walk-in pantries or butler's pantries, we don't have a sink in ours, it's just a walk-in pantry, are like yesterday's news? I don't think they are. I think they're fantastic, but they seem to be going out of fashion, as well. So just your thoughts on them. Thanks very much. Bye.” LISTEN TO MY ANSWERS NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Watch the free online workshop now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-question-and-answer-sips-and-kitchen-trendsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do you need to know about shopping online for tiles? We talk with Floss Kelly, co-founder, about TileCloud. If you’re selecting and ordering tiles, there are key things to know so you don’t run into issues on site. Shopping online can be a great alternative. Florence (or Floss as she first introduced herself to me!) is the Brand Director and Co-Founder of online store TileCloud, and she is one of three faces, of the tile store that Australian's love. And Floss is definitely the design savvy of TileCloud. She has a Bachelor in Design from the College of Fine Arts in Sydney, majoring in Ceramics. Using her design and ceramics background and impressive history in global retail - she and the TileCloud team have changed the Home Renovations and Interior Industry. If you haven’t come across TileCloud yet, you’re going to love (love!) it. TileCloud is an online tile supply business. With a beautiful website, an incredibly gorgeous, curated collection of tiles to choose from, and the ability to order samples through to much bigger quantities, all from the comfort of your lounge room, TileCloud is such an incredible way to source tiles for any project. This ISN’T sponsored content … I just think TileCloud are awesome! I hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  In this full interview featured inside Interior Design 101, Floss and I talk on some other great tiling topics, including …  Why epoxy grout is not common in residential projects Recommendations regarding sealing your tiles Managing batching and stock amounts when ordering tiles at different times What else to order with your tiles to get a great result Tips for getting it right with tile selection So if you’re keen to learn more about those things, then check out Interior Design 101 as the full interview is available in there now. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with everyday.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-tilecloudSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I speak with Karen Haller. Karen Haller is the leading international authority in the field of Applied Colour Psychology - how colour affects and influences our behaviour. With over twenty years of experience, she teaches, consults for businesses, interiors, healthcare and wellbeing; and has worked with prestigious global brands such as Marks and Spencer, Dove and AkzoNobel Dulux. She has also been interviewed for Cosmopolitan, Stylist and The Times, contributed to the Huffington Post, and appeared on London Live and Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch. I was personally researching colour psychology, and came across Karen’s newly published book, “The Little Book of Colour”. It has the subtitle: How to use the psychology of colour to transform your life … which is a big promise, but the book totally delivers.  I’m so excited to be speaking with Karen in this episode of the podcast, and sharing her wisdom with you. I know it’s helped me look at colour very differently … because when we can harness the power of colour, it’s an opportunity to truly enrich our homes, and our lives, so they really align with our personalities and families. Karen and I talk about ... What prompted her to write “The Little Book of Colour” What is colour psychology How to understand the positive and adverse impacts of colour on your behaviour How to combine colours together effectively Understanding your colour personality across all aspects of your life and environment Using colour in your home and why it can fail And working effectively with colour in your home I hope you enjoy listening to this episode!  INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with everyday.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-colour-psychology-in-your-homeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Frances Cosway of White Pebble Interiors and I go into more detail about some of the other materials and fixtures you’ll need to choose for your kitchen.  You’ll learn how to assess these choices not only for their aesthetic appeal, but more importantly, for how they’ll handle the punishment they’re about to endure in your family kitchen! Frances and I talk about: Benchtops Choosing for durability Tapware Your kitchen sink And how to choose your appliances well I hope you enjoy listening to this episode!  INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  In this full interview featured inside Interior Design 101, Frances and I also talk in more detail about flatpack kitchens, and we also talk about hinges, handles and other hardware, and how to choose well for these items … and especially what handles to avoid!  Inside Interior Design 101, I also have a detailed presentation on your kitchen layout with specific dimensions and drawing requirements so you can control the outcome in your finished kitchen. Having seen a lack of drawings cause homeowners SO MANY HEADACHES, I know this presentation will be super helpful to many of you trying to work out how many drawings you need, and what they should look like. And exciting news is that my super popular, 5 Day Kitchen Design Challenge, is now living inside “Interior Design 101” as a special bonus. It’s a great burst of info that takes you through the practical formula to creating a kitchen you’ll love spending time in, and that will work for you and your family. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with every day.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-kitchen-interior-design-details  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your Kitchen Interior Design can create a kitchen that works, is durable and looks great. But are you ready for ALL the decisions and considerations you need to make? Kitchens are a big source of cost and angst in a home. They can be the hero of a family home and often the starting point for Interior Design direction for many homeowners.  They’re often a really sizeable investment, and they can be the whole reason many homeowners renovate or build in the first place. Anyone living with a dysfunctional kitchen knows how frustrating and inconvenient it can be in everyday family life.  However, kitchens that work, and look good, involve SO much many decisions and considerations. And I really encourage you to be thinking about all of these nitty gritty details as you’re designing the kitchen itself, so you know your dreams and budget are tracking in alignment with each other. We’re talking about your Kitchen Interior Design, and specifically kitchen cupboards, kickplates, doors and drawers. I hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  In this full interview featured inside Interior Design 101, Frances and I also talk in more detail about flatpack kitchens. These can be a great alternative, but they’re not always cheaper, and there’s specific things you need to know before going this way with your kitchen. We also discuss splashbacks and the various choices available to you there. And exciting news is that my super popular, 5 Day Kitchen Design Challenge, is now living inside Interior Design 101 as a special bonus. It’s a great burst of info that takes you through the practical formula to creating a kitchen you’ll love spending time in, and that will work for you and your family. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with everyday.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-kitchen-interior-designSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to know how to choose carpet for your family home and make the right choice? There’s lots to know when it comes to carpet. How do you choose from all the different types, and understand all the terminology? If you are wanting carpet as a flooring type, then it’s essential you know specific things about the different types, the terminology associated with pile and density, and the various other key things to know about this flooring type.  We’re going to share some of the key tricks to know when choosing carpet.  During our conversation, we dive into … + the different types of carpet available + what terminology you need to understand to make confident choices + understanding density so you can choose durable carpet + mistakes people make that mean disappointment or extra cost I hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  In this full interview featured inside Interior Design 101, Frances and I also talk about understanding the role underlay performs in the durability and luxuriousness of your carpet. We share some insider tricks to upgrading the whole feel of your carpet without changing what you spend by understanding weight and pile type, as well as information on the types of pile to never use in a family home!  We also talk about where to locate carpet in your home, and ways you can use carpet well to save money in your overall budget, without compromising the feel or functionality of your home. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with every day.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-how-to-choose-carpet  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let me introduce my special guest for this podcast episode, Jess Ausburn. Jess is Owner of Diagrind NSW, as well as green cleaning supplies business, OCS Online Cleaning Supplies. Diagrind as a company has over 20 years’ experience in the diamond and concrete flooring industry. They won the award for Concrete Surfaces Residential New Build Best Floor in 2017. They specialise in providing finishes for commercial flooring, retail flooring, architectural designed polished concrete flooring, terrazzo flooring and floor preparation.  During our conversation, we dive into … + what are the 2 main types when it comes to polished concrete floors  + the essential things your concreter needs to know before pouring your slab so your polished floors turn out well + the different kinds of finishes you can achieve when polishing your floors + comparing quotes and being sure you’re getting the finish you want + how to know if your existing slab can be polished + a brilliant alternative to polished concrete you may not be aware of + mistakes to avoid  I hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  In this full interview featured inside Interior Design 101, Inside Interior Design 101, Jess and I talk in a lot more detail about some key things to know if you’re planning a concrete floor. We discuss slip resistance, and what needs to be done if you want polished concrete in your bathrooms and other wet areas.  Jess also shares some great info on how trades should be managing dust during polishing on site, and what you should know about sealing your polished concrete floor, and its maintenance long-term. AND we talk about how to minimise cracking, plus why you may want to steer clear of epoxy as a finish or sealant. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with every day.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-polished-concrete-floorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Choosing tiles for your family home’s floors can be a fantastic, durable and sustainable choice. There are so many options now, with colours and patterns to suit any home. Yet, many homeowners are put off by tiles, and keep them purely to their bathrooms and laundry.  Thinking them too hard, or too cold, I see homeowners avoid them for their main flooring. However, they’re a brilliant and affordable flooring choice when you understand the terminology, know how to choose well, and can make a great selection for your home. During our conversation, we dive into … + the different tile materials and terminology + what to know about the various tile types + tile batching + tips to get a great result with tiled floors I hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  In this full interview featured inside Interior Design 101, Frances and I also talk about digital printing on tiles, which is how a lot of the patterns on tiles is achieved these days. Frances shares some awesome and key tips to know before choosing digitally printed tiles.  In addition, we talk about grout colours and how to test your grout choice. We also talk about dealing with corners and how to get the best results with your tile setout. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with every day.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-choosing-tiles-flooringSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Frances Cosway and I share our thoughts on timber flooring. We talk about solid timber and engineered timber flooring, why we’d love to see laminate flooring never be used again, and what you need to know before choosing vinyl flooring. SHOW NOTES: Timber flooring can be a great and sustainable choice for your family home. However, many are making terrible, low-cost choices that will be terrible to live with long-term. In this episode, we talk about timber flooring: what choices you have available and what you need to know to make a great, durable and sustainable choice for your own home. During our conversation, we dive into … + what choices are available for you in timber flooring + what should you speak to suppliers about so you understand installation requirements + how to choose colour for your flooring so it suits what’s already in your home + why laminate flooring is a terrible choice + what you need to know about vinyl flooring before you choose it I hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  In this full interview featured inside Interior Design 101, Frances and I go through additional choices such as bamboo, choosing pre-finished boards or finishing your boards after completion, and more detail about timber flooring overall. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with every day.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-timber-flooring  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Choosing your flooring is the first decision to make in your interior design selections. And we know, from experience, that many homeowners DON’T start here.  Frances is an interior designer, principal of White Pebble Interiors, and author of “Your Forever Home”. In this episode, Frances and I talk about what she believes is the first decision you need to make in your Interior Design selections. During our conversation, we dive into … + why flooring is the first place you start + mistakes that many homeowners make, and  + the criteria you can use to choose the right floor for you, your family, and your project. In Season 7 of the podcast, builder, Duayne Pearce and I spoke about the importance of knowing flooring choices early in your project. They’re important because they'll determine how your concrete slab needs to be set out and poured, and the overall levels you have to think about early if you wish to have flush sills etc.  So, knowing Frances also considers your flooring as the first choice you need to make, I was really looking forward to hearing her views on why it's essential to choose flooring early, and the different materials to consider. There are loads of choices you can make when it comes to flooring … polished or burnished concrete, toppings over concrete, timber, tile, carpet, bamboo, cork, linoleum, rubber, laminate and vinyl.  I hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  In this full interview featured inside Interior Design 101, Frances and I go through the criteria for selecting your flooring in more detail, especially looking at functionality, who will be using your floors and environmental sustainability.  We also look at how the thickness of your flooring choices need to be considered, and what you can do about your flooring selection if sound and acoustics concern you in your home.  You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with every day.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-choosing-flooring  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Having worked in this industry for 25 years now, I’ve seen all sorts of things get said and thought about Interior Designers and Interior Design. Interestingly, when I first started my career, it wasn’t that common to work with an Interior Designer.  Working in a small architecture practice in my early 20s, I found we did the Interior Design on all our projects. I learnt that, as an architect, I had to think about, understand and design ALL the components of any project … from the big, chunky, 50m decisions, through to the small, detailed, and intricate 5mm ones too.  And it was really interesting to see my early experience was all about the importance of these 50m and 5mm decisions having a relationship to each other in order for a building (whether a large public project or an individual home) to hang together as a holistic experience and project. As I chatted to Frances about assumptions and myths, we could see how easy it is for a homeowner to get caught out. So listen in to learn more about fee structures, why briefing your Interior Designer early can be so important, and the assumptions you might be mistaken about. I hope you enjoy our conversation. Listen to the episode now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  In this full interview featured inside Interior Design 101, we discuss more myths … one especially being an assumption that many homeowners have that all Interior Designers understand construction and building codes. There are experienced Interior Designers out there who understand how buildings get put together, but I’ve also had far too many scary conversations with Interior Designers, Decorators and Stylists who’ve been advising homeowners on construction and building decisions, and seriously jeopardising the homeowner and themselves in the process.  It can be super risky when your Interior Designer doesn’t understand building codes and standards, so we talk more about this area … as well as the animosity we see in the industry, and how to create collaboration and trust within your team overall. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with every day.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-top-myths-interior-designers  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Frances is an interior designer, principal of White Pebble Interiors, and author of “Your Forever Home”, and she has some great insight to share so you can determine if an Interior Designer would be useful to have on your project, and how and when you can get them involved. Many homeowners are confused about if they need an Interior Designer, or when to bring one on board. I know some architects see them as superfluous, and other architects and designers see them as helpful in purely dealing with and documenting all the tile and colour selections!  I've had homeowners tell me they wish they'd brought one on board to narrow down their decision-making, so they didn't get so overwhelmed. It wasn’t until they started researching all the finishes they needed to decide on that they realised just how many options were available.  Added to this is the fact that the industry of Interior Design is an unregulated one. Unlike architecture, where it’s very clear what someone has to do or qualify in to call themselves an Architect vs a Building Designer or draftsperson, Interior Design is not like this. Anyone can call themselves an Interior Designer. And you can have Interior Designers, Interior Decorators and Interior Stylists.  I've professionally worked in many different ways with Interior Designers, from having them as external consultants within a project, through to them being fellow team-mates within the same business.  Given Frances’ experience in the Interior Design industry, I was keen to hear her thoughts on what she recommended when it comes to choosing and working with Interior Designers, and where and how she sees her work happening best, and adding the most value to a homeowner and their project. In this interview, we talk about the differences between the various types of roles in the industry, how to choose and know the one you’re working with is what you need when to get them involved in your project.  I hope you enjoy our conversation. Listen to the episode now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  In this full interview featured inside Interior Design 101, we explore the specific ways an Interior Designer can help you with your floor plan, your brief, your specifications and all the selections you’ll need to make.  We also talk about the ways that an Interior designer can really support you in making sure all these choices not only look great but are affordable and functional as well. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with every day.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au   For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-why-use-an-interior-designer  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello and welcome to a brand new podcast season! In this episode, I’m going to be giving you an outline of the season to come, plus tell you more about my co-host, and an exciting new online program that’s been created to celebrate this season too. Listen to this episode now. SHOW NOTES: I’m super excited about this upcoming season.  Firstly, because I know how massively helpful it’s going to be for you … not only if you’re planning a renovation or new home, but even if you’re doing smaller projects in your home. Secondly, I know that this season is going to uncover a lot of nitty gritty topics that I consistently see confuse or frustrate homeowners. Often because a lot of this information is sourced through the process of buying the things we’ll be talking about … and so you’re never sure if the information and advice you’re receiving is impartial or simply someone trying to sell you something. Thirdly, the decisions that you have to make in this particular area of your building or renovation project, often feel really exciting, but also BIG and impactful … because it’s an area where you, as the homeowner, can actually feel and touch and envisage the results of your choices, but it’s a huge area of choice, and that can be really overwhelming when you get into the deep end of all of your decisions. So, what am I talking about?  Well, in this season, we’re going to be diving into Interior Design Basics. Materials, finishes, fixtures, design ideas, inspiration, how to choose, how to get help and support and what decisions really matter in the creation of your future home’s interior design. My co-host for much of this season is Interior Designer and Author, Frances Cosway. Now, if you listened to the season on sustainable design, you may have heard my interview with Frances Cosway about her own sustainable forever home. Frances is an Interior Designer and Decorator, and a published author of the book “Your Forever Home”. And she’s the principal of her own business, White Pebble Interiors.   Frances is fantastically honest and down to earth. You’ll often hear her say in these discussions that things have to be functional. They have to be practical as well as look good. She has a wealth of experience and expertise in building, renovating, interior design and decoration.  I think you’re going to love all the wisdom and generosity that Frances brings in how she shares her knowledge, recommendations and tips for your interior design throughout this season. And I know it’ll be incredible for helping you make more confident choices in your projects as you move forward. And along the way, I’ll also be chatting to other fantastic industry professionals to add to the extensive info we’re sharing across this season. I’ve connected with some of my favourite brands to ask them to jump on the podcast and share their insights too, so we can really explore and uncover so much nitty gritty know-how. You’ll be super armed for your Interior design journey. Listen to the episode to learn more about what this season will cover, and subscribe so you always know when a new episode is released!   RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-interior-design-basics-introduction  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whether you’re renovating or building new, how can you create a home you love? On any budget? Whether you’re renovating or building new, after all that time, money and effort to plan, design and build your project, you want it to be somewhere you love living don’t you! That’s the whole point isn’t it?  Well, in this episode, I’ve got 7 tips when it comes to creating a renovated or new home you love. I’ll be sharing with you what these 7 tips are, and how you can apply them on any budget to create a fantastic home that feels great.  And I also want to share some news with you about my online program “How to Get it Right in Your New Home or Reno”. If you’ve been thinking about joining, and you’re listening to this podcast before the 1st of October, 2019, you’re going to want to hear this important info. SHOW NOTES: Now before we get on with those 7 tips, I’d like you to first think for a moment about what stresses you about creating your future home. Through Undercover Architect, I have the privilege of connecting with and speaking with thousands of homeowners every year, and the fears and challenges they experience are all very similar. Perhaps these may be familiar to you. The 4 main fears I hear are: Budget … can I afford to do what I want to do, and how will I prevent blowouts? Time … how much time will this take, and how will I fit it into my life? Unknowns … and where they might trip you up Not stuffing it up … Getting it right And so, that’s why today, I really want to help you see what mistakes you can avoid so that you can save stress around these challenges. And what you need to know to get it right in the future home you’re creating. I’m going to be sharing the key characteristics common to fantastic homes. In almost 25 years of doing this, I’ve seen what works, and what doesn’t - over the long term. So, I’ll be sharing my proven methods to make your future home work for you. With all the choices you’ll be needing to make, you’ll then know what to prioritise, and what to avoid … and how you can create a renovated or new home you love … on any budget. Listen to the episode now.  And before I go, I want to share some news about my online program “How to Get it Right”. If you’d like more help and support in designing, building and renovating your home, it’s a fantastic way you can get properly prepared, and be supported with guidance, knowledge and tools to get it right in your future home, and the journey to create it. “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home” is perfect if you’re still thinking about renovating or building, doing your research and getting prepared. It will radically streamline your process and help you not waste time or money. It’s also perfect if you’re about to start designing, or already have your design underway - whether working on it yourself, with a designer, or directly with a builder.  If you’re listening to this podcast at the time of release, I want to share with you that “How to Get it Right” is increasing in price on the 1st of October - 2019.  We've been adding new Q & A sessions, plus expert interviews, and it continues to be an incredible program that really helps homeowners get ready for their reno or new build. With no expiry, a monthly Q & A, a raft of know-how, checklists and tools AND a proven system ... it saves far, far more in stress, time and money, than the cost of joining. “How to Get it Right” is my own proven step by step system, that takes you through the 4 stages of any build or renovation project: Before you begin designing, we look at the things you need to do to get yourself prepared, find your team and avoid delays later Getting your design right dives into what are the core fundamentals of creating a great family home, how to get clear on what you need and want, and then communicate those things to those who need to know Before you build looks at getting your approvals, ensuring your quotes are accurate and all the things you need to do before construction so you don’t have variations and budget blowouts on site Getting your project built then steps you through choosing your builder, and sets up the process for great communication on site, as well as maintaining your systems and records during that time Hundreds and hundreds of homeowners have done this online program, and found it to be super helpful in arming them with the knowledge and resources they need to be confident in their project. More than one member has told me they’ve been asked what part of the industry they’re from because they know how to ask great questions and have informed conversations with their potential team members. This program is all about helping you move simply and efficiently through your project, saving time, money and stress. What I love most is hearing from homeowners about how much more relaxed they are about their projects. They still know there'll be challenges and hiccups ... but they have the tools and knowledge they need.   This may sound a little woo woo ... but how you show up in your renovation or new build project will totally impact the results you get. And if you want to show up as an informed and super savvy homeowner, getting educated is key. "How to Get it Right" simplifies this for you, as I take you through my own step-by-step system, with checklists and guides along the way. If you've been sitting on the fence about joining, grab the opportunity to access it now before the price rise on October 1st, 2019.   "How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Build" will transform your renovation or building experience - and the finished home waiting for you at the end of your journey. Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ to learn more and join us. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: See Amelia’s childhood home here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/homeyoulove And “How to Get it Right” is here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you get the best from your budget, your design, your project team and the home you’re creating? Welcome to Episode 10 of Season 10. This episode is a great lesson in what professionalism looks like in the renovation and building industry. Both guests are experienced and passionate about their projects and clients, and helping them get the best results for their projects. My first guest on this episode, is Riye Arai-Coupe, of Bluebird Property Partners in Brisbane. And my second guest is Sarah Heys, owner of The Built Element, a Maitland based, boutique building business. SHOW NOTES: So, firstly let me tell you about Riye. At Bluebird Property Partners, Riye is a Client-Side Project Manager. She helps busy property owners to coordinate their renovations and new builds from start to finish. Most of Bluebird’s clients come to them because they want to renovate but they don’t know the first place to start – or they have some knowledge but just don’t have time to execute the project – between their day jobs and family commitments.  After a long and successful career in property development, Riye left the corporate world in 2018 and founded Bluebird Property Partners with another female development professional Claire O’Rourke. They started Bluebird because they wanted to help people realise their property dreams.  Riye and Claire know that renovating and building can be one of the most stressful processes in a person’s life. They wanted to remove that stress and help make the process more enjoyable! Bluebird is an all-female team and thus like to think that they work with their clients and on each of their projects in a way that is not commonly found in the industry. Not only do they have the experience and expertise, they offer a highly transparent, personalised and thoughtful service to their clients and treat every project like it is their own.  And my second guest in this interview is Sarah Heys, owner and founder of The Built Element. Sarah Heys is director and owner of The Built Element, a construction business she founded in Maitland, NSW, in 2014. The Built Element offers residential and commercial Client Side Project Management consulting services, Residential New Builds and Development Feasibilities with Land Owners.  Sarah has 25 years’ construction experience in the commercial and residential building sectors, on a vast array of projects. She now brings this knowledge to The Built Element projects.  As she outlines in our interview, she has worked on everything from $70 million commercial projects and significant government work, through to high end apartments and everything in between. Sarah’s passion is sustainable design and construction. To build better is not hard, but there are a complex number of factors that all must align, for it to be a well resolved build. At The Built Element, they believe that good building is honest, it is sustainable, it is pleasing and functional, and it feeds the senses. Listen to the episode now. And be sure to get in touch with Riye and Sarah to let them know you heard them on Undercover Architect, and to thank them for all they share!! This podcast is an edited version of the full interviews with Riye and Sarah. Those interviews are now featured inside my online course “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home” for Australian homeowners.   Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ to learn more about “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home”. In the full interview, Riye shares some key knowledge on ... how they ensure projects are designed on budget, with no nasty surprises how closely they work with the designer and client during the design phase, and their involvement in design decisions the key to collaborative teams that work well together her tips for interviewing a builder to choose one well In the full interview, Sarah also shares information on ... how she suggests you choose a builder, and what mistakes she sees homeowners make what you should expect from your builder in the process of signing your contract whether you really need to make all your selections and decisions before finalising your contract what building in a climate region like Maitland’s requires for design and materials how to consider double glazing and BASIX assessments on your project what the differences are for homeowners and builders when their project is in a regional location Wondering how to build or renovate your family home without the drama, budget blowouts or costly mistakes? The “How To Get It Right in Your Reno or New Home E-Course” gives you access to all of the information and knowledge you need to create the home you want. My years of experience with homeowners just like you, has shown me that making mis-steps in the early planning days ... and then continuing to make them ... can fundamentally impact your reno or building project. And send you in the wrong (and expensive) direction. “How To Get It Right” is designed on the system I’ve followed during my own, and my clients', renovation and building projects. It is a framework for your journey from start to finish. I arm you with the tools and knowledge you need to save time, money and stress. And get it right the first time. This detailed, step-by-step framework, will simplify your entire project journey and give you the tools to ... > Feel confident about the steps you need to take in your project. > Know how to keep everything on budget and on time. > Avoid the pitfalls and mistakes that lead to disaster stories. > Be in control, keep your sanity and enjoy the journey! "How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Build" will transform your renovation or building experience - and the finished home waiting for you at the end of your journey. Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ to learn more and join us. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about Riye Arai-Coupe and Bluebird Property Partners, here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com//podcast-project- management-renovation-new-build-riye-arai-coupe-bluebird Find more information and links to Sarah Heys, The Built Element, here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com//podcast-best-way-to-build-new-home-or-renovation-sarah-heys-the-built-element Find out about “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ And “How to Get it Right” for Aussie homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want a room by room guide to creating your healthy home? If you want to design your home so it supports your health and well-being, start by understanding key tips and strategies for each room. Hello, and welcome to Episode 9 of Season 10. I bring Kate Hamblet back this week, and we go into more detail about creating a healthy home, looking at your home and project room-by-room. If you haven’t heard last week’s episode, I introduced Kate there, so make sure you check that episode out as well.  Kate is an architect with her own business, Balanced Architecture, and she’s a specialist in how our homes can be designed to support our health and wellbeing, so, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: In this podcast episode, we welcome Kate Hamblet back. Kate was on last week’s episode, discussing how to create a home that supports your health and well-being.  This week, she takes us through some key spaces and rooms in your home, and how to design them so they improve your lifestyle, and make your home a healthy one. Kate is owner and architect at Balanced Architecture, and she’s a licensed architect and sustainability expert. (We met Kate in our episode last week, so if you haven’t listened to it, check it out now). Kate also is the architectural force behind the fantastic online business and resource, “Balanced Home, Balanced Life”, where she teaches homeowners everything she knows about creating healthy homes of their own.  Kate also has her own online course “Designed for Wellness” to help you create your own healthy home, as well as packaged services for you to get advice and architectural support along your journey.  Kate says on her own website ... “I started on the path of wellness design in 2015 and haven't looked back.  When I first went back to work after having my son in 2014, the struggle to manage it all definitely hit me hard.  There was stress at work, stress at home, minimal sleep, and so much to do! I barely made my way through that first year, and I knew something needed to change.  I needed to find calm in my life as a working mom. Since I wasn't able to do too much about the stress at work, I decided to look at what was causing my stress at home.  And then I realized that the house I was coming home to was not set up for providing wellness. It was actually hindering my and my family's health and happiness. I went to work making small adjustments to my home that had a big impact on our health and wellness.  Within a few months I was seeing changes in my mood. I was eating better. I was getting a better night's sleep.  I was more productive at work.   And most importantly, the time I spent with my family improved dramatically.  Creating a home that promoted wellness was a life saver for my happiness, my relationships and my sanity!” With well over a decade of architectural design experience, Kate has the expertise to guide families toward the creation of a home they will fall in love with, all while keeping them safe and encouraging a healthy lifestyle.  Listen to the episode now. And be sure to get in touch with Kate to let her know you heard her on Undercover Architect, and to thank her for all they share!! This podcast is an edited version of the full interview with Kate. That interview is now featured inside my online course “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners.   Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ to learn more about “The Welcome Home Course”. In “The Welcome Home Course”, I’ve teamed up with award-winning American architect, Eric Reinholdt, to create a specific course for American homeowners. If you’re planning your renovation or new build, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and confused about the best way forward. Many homeowners make the mistake of diving in, and fall for all sorts of terrible advice as a result. And the journey becomes far more stressful, expensive and time consuming as a result. And their finished home never lives up to the dreams they held so dear. When you have the steps to follow … the map for your journey ahead, you can then move confidently towards that future home you’re dreaming of, and not waste any time or money.  When you know that step-by-step system has been created over decades of experience in hundreds and hundreds of family homes like yours, you can save so much stress in your project, and create a home that works and feels great. And when you have the steps, as well as professional know-how, design knowledge, tools, resources, and guides, you can shortcut your journey, enjoy your experience, and avoid the heartache and drama so many experience. If you’re keen to make your journey simpler, be confident that the home you’re dreaming of is achievable, and know the steps to get you there …’The Welcome Home Course’ is the way. Together with Eric, we’ve packaged up almost 45 years experience to show you the way to your future family home.  Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ to learn more and join us. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Find more information and links to Kate Hamblet, Balanced Architecture, here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-room-by-room-guide-kate-hamblet-balanced-architecture Kate’s special resource can be found here >>> https://www.balancedhomebalancedlife.com/undercoverarchitect/ Find out about “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ And “How to Get it Right” for Aussie homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How can you create a sustainable home that supports your health and well-being? Hello, and welcome to Episode 8 of Season 10. In this episode, I have two American design professionals. Both passionate about sustainability and creating a home that supports your health and well-being … and the planet as well … they have a wealth of knowledge and advice to share with you, wherever you’re building or renovating. Kate Hamblet of Balanced Architecture and Kyle Macht of Macht Architecture are awesome in this interview, generously giving loads of tips and strategies to help you create a sustainable, healthy home.  I can’t wait to introduce them to you, so, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: Now first up, we have Kate Hamblet on the podcast. Kate is owner and architect at Balanced Architecture, and she’s a licensed architect and sustainability expert. Balanced Architecture is a residential design studio that puts wellness and sustainability at the heart of every project. As a wellness architect, she designs fresh, modern structures and spaces that nourish the body, the mind and the earth. Her mission is to guide people to make their home environment as healthy as possible and to turn their homes from an unwelcoming environment to a healthful retreat. Kate is also the founder of “Balanced Home, Balanced Life”. This is an online resource that helps and teaches homeowners how to create healthy homes of their own that supporting their well-being and lifestyles in a sustainable way.  With well over a decade of architectural design experience, Kate has the expertise to guide families toward the creation of a home they will fall in love with, all while keeping them safe and encouraging a healthy lifestyle. She has the passion to improve others lives in the same way her own was improved when she created her own healthy home. Kate’s also provided a special resource for the Undercover Architect community - so scroll to the bottom to see that link. Now, let’s meet our next guest. Next, I’d love to introduce you to Kyle Macht of Macht Architecture. After graduating with a degree in Architectural Engineering from Pennsylvania State University, Kyle Macht joined a Green Design/Build firm that specialized in energy consulting. He worked as an energy consultant for commercial buildings and new homes before becoming the lead residential designer and managing construction of several projects.  In 2015, Kyle officially joined his father’s practice to reinforce and add to Macht Architecture’s capabilities and expertise in building science, construction technology, construction management, and residential design.  This move was a return to when Kyle first discovered architecture and engineering by working in his father’s studio while studying at Penn State. Kyle has decided there’s no place he’d rather be than working with his father again to pursue their common vision for architecture, sustainability and building science to translate each client’s dreams to their fullest potential. Listen to the episode now. And be sure to get in touch with Kate and Kyle to let them know you heard them on Undercover Architect, and to thank them for all they share!! This podcast is an edited version of the full interviews with Kate and Kyle. Those interviews are now featured inside my online course “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners.   Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ to learn more about “The Welcome Home Course”. In “The Welcome Home Course”, I’ve teamed up with award-winning American architect, Eric Reinholdt, to create a specific course for American homeowners. If you’re planning your renovation or new build, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and confused about the best way forward. Many homeowners make the mistake of diving in, and fall for all sorts of terrible advice as a result. And the journey becomes far more stressful, expensive and time consuming as a result. And their finished home never lives up to the dreams they held so dear. When you have the steps to follow … the map for your journey ahead, you can then move confidently towards that future home you’re dreaming of, and not waste any time or money.  When you know that step-by-step system has been created over decades of experience in hundreds and hundreds of family homes like yours, you can save so much stress in your project, and create a home that works and feels great. And when you have the steps, as well as professional know-how, design knowledge, tools, resources, and guides, you can shortcut your journey, enjoy your experience, and avoid the heartache and drama so many experience. If you’re keen to make your journey simpler, be confident that the home you’re dreaming of is achievable, and know the steps to get you there …’The Welcome Home Course’ is the way. Together with Eric, we’ve packaged up almost 45 years experience to show you the way to your future family home.   Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ to learn more and join us. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Find more information and links to Kate Hamblet, Balanced Architecture, here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-healthy-home-kate-hamblet-balanced-architecture Kate’s special resource can be found here >>> https://www.balancedhomebalancedlife.com/undercoverarchitect/ Learn more about Kyle Macht, and Macht Architecture, here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-designing-sustainable-home-kyle-macht-architecture Find out about “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ And “How to Get it Right” for Aussie homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How can you use Interior Design to create spaces that look and feel great in your home? Interior Designer, Tara Dennis, has some seriously great ideas to help you create spaces that look and feel great, and make your home truly work for you. In this episode, I speak with Tara Dennis, USA Director of Archie Bolden. Long-time readers of the Undercover Architect blog will recognise Tara from her involvement in the Anderson Project, which features as a project diary on the Undercover Architect website, as we followed a family building their new home. Tara and I have worked together at different times in different businesses, and I’ve always loved working with her. She brings great fun and energy to projects, as well as her brilliant skill and talent.  Tara is now USA based, and her business, which was formally known as TD Creative Agency, has recently gone through a rebrand into the fantastic brand, Archie Bolden. With offices in both Australia and the USA, Tara has boatloads to share with us about how to use Interior Design to create spaces in your home that look AND feel great.  So, let me tell you more about Tara and Archie Bolden. SHOW NOTES: Archie Bolden is the audaciously creative brainchild of daring duo — Tara Dennis and Hayley Richards.  In a past life, Archie Bolden was formerly known as TD Creative Agency - a Brisbane design studio, born in 2014 by the fearless, Tara Dennis. Fast forward half a decade, and they’ve evolved to have dual city studios with projects scattered throughout Australia and the USA; and upon entering a new era of business - Archie Bolden was born. At Archie Bolden, they believe in people and they believe in design, and they bring those two elements together to create spaces that reflect the values, desires and intentions of those who engage them. Archie Bolden is young, modern, enthusiastic and considered and has a knack for knowing what you want, (sometimes before you’ve even realised it yourself) and delivers it in a way that shoots the sun out of the sky. Tara Dennis is an Interior Designer and is the USA Director of Archie Bolden. With a background in residential property development, commercial real estate and a side hustle in high-end furniture manufacturing, she boasts one hearty repertoire of design-related skills and experience.  Tara’s relaxed management style, deep understanding of property and passion for interior design enables her to combine the creative with the business and provide an all-encompassing solution that is not just good looking, but practical and well-planned. She believes in purposeful design intentions that are a true reflection of her clients' personalities and values, and has no fear when entering uncharted design-related waters... nothing memorable ever came out of playing it safe!  I think this from the Archie Bolden website, really sums up their approach … they say: “We believe in engaging as human to human, not business to business. We’re interested in designing with you collaboratively, with sincerity and integrity. We do all that we do, to enable you to be all that you can be.” Tara is based in the USA, and Hayley is based in Brisbane, and together they provide a unique approach that produces stunning projects on both continents.  I ASKED TARA DENNIS THESE QUESTIONS ... What type of projects do you generally work on? What is the difference between Interior Design and Interior Decoration? How does a homeowner best work with an Interior Designer? How do you help your clients stay on track and avoid decision overwhelm? Why is it so important to give your home’s interior design a personality - both holistically, and on a room-by-room basis? What are your top Interior Design tips for kitchens? What are your top Interior Design tips for bathrooms? How do you recommend homeowners approach the lighting design for their home? What about trends? How do you create timeless design that’s still stylish? Why do you use textures so much in your work? How do you help homeowners be brave with their Interior Design choices? I know you’ll love this interview - Tara shares very generously from her experience and expertise how to really use Interior Design and Decoration to ensure your home truly works for you … so you can be all you can be. Listen to the episode now. And be sure to get in touch with Tara to let her know you heard her on Undercover Architect, and to thank her for all she shares!! This interview is now featured inside both my online courses “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners, and “How to Get it Right” for Australian Homeowners.  If you’re keen to make your journey simpler, be confident that the home you’re dreaming of is achievable, and know the steps to get you there …'The Welcome Home Course’ and ‘How to Get it Right’ are the way. Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ to learn more about “The Welcome Home Course”. Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ to learn more about “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home”. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Find more information, resources and links for Tara Dennis here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-interior-design-tara-dennis-archie-bolden Find out about “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ And “How to Get it Right” for Aussie homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you get the money you need for your renovation or new build project? And what’s involved in understanding town planning rules so you know what you’re allowed to do? Welcome to Episode 6 of Season 10. In this episode, I have two Australian industry professionals generously sharing some incredible insight into their areas of expertise: Mortgages and Finance, and Town Planning and Approvals. My first guest on this episode, is Caroline Jean-Baptiste, from Mortgage Choice Fortitude Valley (Brisbane), QLD. And my second guest is Peta Charles, from Brisbane Town Planning, QLD.  SHOW NOTES: My first guest is Caroline Jean-Baptiste, and she’s on a mission to get people talking about money. Caroline is a specialist in finance with more than 12 years working as a Mortgage Broker in her own business. Her passion is working with her clients to achieve the life they want through home ownership and wealth creation.  She is dedicated to helping first home buyers get into their home and existing homeowners renovate and upgrade. She owns award-winning Mortgage Broking business, Mortgage Choice, based in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane. And she and her team serve all of Brisbane. Getting finance to fund your renovation or new build project can be stressful and full of challenges. And yet, making it happen is often key to your project happening - or not! And, my second guest for this episode is Peta Charles, from Brisbane Town Planning. Brisbane Town Planning promises to make designers look good. How? They say ... “It's simple, we actively work to get their jobs out of a Town Planning application (aka DA). This saves their clients time and money. Which as you can imagine, earns them some serious kudos, brownie points, bragging rights and general good vibes with their clients.” Listen to the episode now. And be sure to get in touch with Caroline and Peta to let them know you heard them on Undercover Architect, and to thank them for all they share!! This podcast is an edited version of the full interviews with Caroline and Peta. Those interviews are now featured inside my online course “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home” for Australian homeowners.   In her full interview, Caroline shares more information about how to assess your mortgage broker, whether it’s better to go to a broker or the bank, and some key strategies for more successful borrowing in your renovation or new build project (especially if you can’t access all the cash you need straight away). In her full interview, Peta also shares information on ... why architects and designers may not be the best professional to prepare your town planning application what to do if council says ‘no’ to your application to improve your chances of getting your project through things to know about the Traditional Character Overlay in Brisbane City Council Acceptable Solutions vs Performance Solutions, and why do they matter to your approval Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ to learn more about “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home”.   Wondering how to build or renovate your family home without the drama, budget blowouts or costly mistakes? The “How To Get It Right in Your Reno or New Home E-Course” gives you access to all of the information and knowledge you need to create the home you want. My years of experience with homeowners just like you, has shown me that making mis-steps in the early planning days ... and then continuing to make them ... can fundamentally impact your reno or building project. And send you in the wrong (and expensive) direction. “How To Get It Right” is designed on the system I’ve followed during my own, and my clients', renovation and building projects. It is a framework for your journey from start to finish. I arm you with the tools and knowledge you need to save time, money and stress. And get it right the first time. This detailed, step-by-step framework, will simplify your entire project journey and give you the tools to ... > Feel confident about the steps you need to take in your project. > Know how to keep everything on budget and on time. > Avoid the pitfalls and mistakes that lead to disaster stories. > Be in control, keep your sanity and enjoy the journey! "How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Build" will transform your renovation or building experience - and the finished home waiting for you at the end of your journey.   Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ to learn more and join us. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about Caroline Jean-Baptiste and get links to her business, Mortgage Choice Fortitude Valley, here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-how-to-finance-renovation-new-build-mortgage-choice Find more information and links to Peta Charles, Brisbane Town Planning, here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-council-rules-approvals-peta-charles-brisbane-town-planning Find out about “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ And “How to Get it Right” for Aussie homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What steps are involved in finding a contractor or builder you can trust? As a homeowner, for you to know the steps to finding a contractor or builder you can trust, it can be game-changing for your new build or renovation. And that’s why I’m so excited to be bringing my guest to you: Shawn Van Dyke. Shawn Van Dyke is a Construction Business Coach, Author and Speaker. Based in the USA, he works internationally with clients to help them run better construction businesses.  Shawn has brilliant advice to share on: how to select your contractor or builder the types of conversations to have with them before you hire them the ways to know you can trust them before you sign that contract and how to work with them in a really productive way.  SHOW NOTES: So, let me tell you a bit more about Shawn. Shawn Van Dyke is a construction business coach and the author of two books: Profit First for Contractors and The Paperwork Punch List - 28 Days to Streamline Your Construction Business.   Most contractors are not profitable which makes them feel uncertain about what they need to do to grow their construction businesses.  Shawn believes construction business owners should be as good at business as they are at their craft.   That's why, after twenty plus years of owning and operating multiple construction businesses, Shawn became a construction business coach.  He now works with construction business owners, executives, and managers all over the world and shows them how to stop losing profits and wasting time.   Shawn helps contractors get their lives back.  He is also a keynote speaker and Fine Homebuilding Brand Ambassador. You can find him all over social media sharing his knowledge and experience.   He doesn't mince words and gives practical advice to contractors so that he can accomplish his mission: to change the way the world view the trades.   He believes the best way to accomplish this mission is to help contractors run world-class businesses so that they are seen for what they truly are - business professionals who provide an extraordinary service through their devotion to their craft, their customers, and their communities. Shawn is based in Knoxville, Tennessee, where he lives with his wife and 5 kids. I ASKED SHAWN VAN DYKE THESE QUESTIONS ... You’re on a mission to change the way the world views the trades. What do you think this view is / has been?  What do you think one of the biggest hurdles is to improving the impression that homeowners have of the construction industry, contractors and trades? What should a homeowner do to know they can trust their contractor before they hire them?  You encourage your contractor community to charge for their pricing process. Can you talk through why you think this is beneficial for both contractors / builders and homeowners? You shared a great blog and video on “Transparency is not trust” that talked about what line-item quoting doesn’t work. Can you explain more about why this is not great for the homeowner or the builder / contractor? When problems occur, what are your suggestions for contractors to deal with these with their clients, and keep things moving overall? Listen to the episode now. And be sure to get in touch with Shawn to let him know you heard him on Undercover Architect, and to thank him for all he shares!! This podcast is an edited version of the full interview with Shawn. This interview is now featured inside my online course “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners.   Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ to learn more about “The Welcome Home Course”. In Shawn’s full interview, he shares more information about ... how important a payment schedule is when establishing contracts and cashflow for jobs - and what this is, and why it’s so essential how, as a homeowner) to avoid working with a contractor or builder where corners might be getting cut, things getting missed, sub-standard quality happening, and it all being hidden where you can't see (or don't know to look) Shawn’s recommendations for setting up a good working relationship between a builder / contractor and homeowner In “The Welcome Home Course”, I’ve teamed up with award-winning American architect, Eric Reinholdt, to create a specific course for American homeowners. If you’re planning your renovation or new build, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and confused about the best way forward. Many homeowners make the mistake of diving in, and fall for all sorts of terrible advice as a result. And the journey becomes far more stressful, expensive and time consuming as a result. And their finished home never lives up to the dreams they held so dear. When you have the steps to follow … the map for your journey ahead, you can then move confidently towards that future home you’re dreaming of, and not waste any time or money.  When you know that step-by-step system has been created over decades of experience in hundreds and hundreds of family homes like yours, you can save so much stress in your project, and create a home that works and feels great. And when you have the steps, as well as professional know-how, design knowledge, tools, resources, and guides, you can shortcut your journey, enjoy your experience, and avoid the heartache and drama so many experience. If you’re keen to make your journey simpler, be confident that the home you’re dreaming of is achievable, and know the steps to get you there …’The Welcome Home Course’ is the way. Together with Eric, we’ve packaged up almost 45 years experience to show you the way to your future family home.  Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ to learn more and join us. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Find more information, resources and links for Shawn Van Dyke here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-finding-contractor-builder-you-can-trust-shawn-van-dyke Find out about “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ And “How to Get it Right” for Aussie homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is it possible to design a sustainable AND affordable home? Well, most homeowners I speak to say ‘No!’ … it’s always more expensive to build sustainably! Jenny Edwards and Sarah Lebner from Light House Architecture + Science disagree. They believe you can have a sustainable home that is affordable to build as well. And one that uses traditional building methods, done smartly and efficiently. And they have 77 completed projects that prove it’s possible. SHOW NOTES: Light House Architecture and Science is a unique architectural practice based in Canberra, and they are founded on a philosophy of simplifying the sustainable design process to create comfortable, clever, energy efficient homes. Homes that are light-filled and light-footed. Light House Architecture and Science design space-efficient and energy-efficient homes to suit Canberra’s climate. Through excellent design and scientific testing, they create homes that feel spacious and comfortable, and function beautifully, on a smaller than average floor area. Many of the homes they design achieve an energy efficiency rating of 8+ stars (6 stars being the current minimum standard). These houses require half as much energy per year to heat and cool them to comfortable temperatures compared to a 6 star home.  Their vision is to make energy efficient housing mainstream and be a beacon for positive change in the residential construction industry. As a result, they are committed to helping people with a ‘mainstream’ budget achieve their dream of an excellent, comfortable and affordable home. Light House provides a unique integrated service with an experienced team of architects, scientists and cost estimator. This collaborative approach means you can expect clear and consistent communication from the outset about the design of your home, energy performance, time frames and costings, materials, finishes and inclusions. JENNY EDWARDS is an ACT licensed Building Energy Efficiency Assessor, and is the owner, managing director and lead scientist for Light House Architecture + Science … and I think this is one of the unique factors of this business as an architectural practice - in that a scientist is at the helm. It completely reframes the business’ focus, practice regime and design methodologies to be aligned with their core philosophy. Jenny has personally been awarded for her work in the industry, and her businesses and projects - including her own home - have also been recognised and awarded for their design and sustainable performance.  SARAH LEBNER is Lead Architect at Light House Architecture and Science and describes herself as a country girl who only wants to change the world! Sarah originally joined Light House to focus on developing a modular housing design approach with the aim to make affordable, beautiful, energy efficient homes more accessible to the general public. The business evolution of Light House during Sarah’s employment has given her valuable insight into collaborative approaches and unique practising models for architects.  Sarah now leads the architecture and design team at Light House, maintaining a highly collaborative and collective group approach to design, documentation, advice during construction, professional development, and integration with the science team.  She’s also added another project - a business and resource called “My First Architecture Job” - and it was through this avenue that I first encountered Sarah. My First Architecture Job is Sarah's latest project, allowing her to bring her mentoring skills and energy for helping students kick-start their career to a wider audience.  My First Architecture Job is a resource to help bridge the gap for graduate architects between university and practice by providing knowledge, resources and connections, and to help them find employment, learn the basics of architecture practice, and fast-track the first five years of their career.  When researching this interview, I read a quote by Steve Baczek, an American architect, that said:  “It’s not that High-Performance Houses cost too much; it’s that our idea of a fairly priced home is based on a history of building houses to meet embarrassingly low performance benchmarks. Clients don’t realise the difference between built to code vs built to last” Jenny and Sarah share some incredibly valuable advice about how you can build a home that is built to last, comfortable and sustainable - and gives you the best living environment in an affordable way. I know this will be a seriously game-changing interview. Listen to the episode now. And be sure to get in touch with Jenny and Sarah to let them know you heard them on Undercover Architect, and to thank them for all they share! This podcast is an edited version of the full interviews with Jenny and Sarah. My full interview is now featured inside my online course “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home” for Australian homeowners.   Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ to learn more about “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home”.  Wondering how to build or renovate your family home without the drama, budget blowouts or costly mistakes? The “How To Get It Right in Your Reno or New Home E-Course” gives you access to all of the information and knowledge you need to create the home you want. My years of experience with homeowners just like you, has shown me that making mis-steps in the early planning days ... and then continuing to make them ... can fundamentally impact your reno or building project. And send you in the wrong (and expensive) direction. “How To Get It Right” is designed on the system I’ve followed during my own, and my clients', renovation and building projects. It is a framework for your journey from start to finish. I arm you with the tools and knowledge you need to save time, money and stress. And get it right the first time. This detailed, step-by-step framework, will simplify your entire project journey and give you the tools to ... > Feel confident about the steps you need to take in your project. > Know how to keep everything on budget and on time. > Avoid the pitfalls and mistakes that lead to disaster stories. > Be in control, keep your sanity and enjoy the journey! "How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Build" will transform your renovation or building experience - and the finished home waiting for you at the end of your journey. Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ to learn more and join us. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about Jenny Edwards, Sarah Lebner, Light House Architecture + Science and My First Architecture Job here >>> http://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-sustainable-affordable-home-light-house-architecture-science Find out about “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ And “How to Get it Right” for Aussie homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do you need to know about renovating and building your family home? And how can Feng Shui be used in the design of your home? Hello, and welcome to Episode 3 of Season 10. In this episode, I have two American designers to introduce you to. Both are doing fantastic work in their own businesses, and have lots of helpful knowledge to share with you.  This is super exciting, because with both of my guests today, I had such a great time learning from them as I interviewed them - and so I know you’re going to benefit hugely from their expertise as well. My first guest on this episode, is Marina V Umali, an Interior Designer and Certified Feng Shui Practitioner based in New York State. And my second guest is Jake Krokowski of JWK Design, and he is based in South Carolina, and specialises in new homes, renovations and landscape design.  SHOW NOTES: So, let me first introduce you to Marina. Marina V Umali is a NY State Certified Interior Designer and Certified Feng Shui Practitioner, and owner of Marina V Design Studio. She has studied Interior Design, Architecture and Psychology, and worked as an Interior Designer for a number of prominent firms in New York City. She cares deeply about helping people create lasting improvements in their lives. And she does that by creating lasting improvements in their environments.  Marina seeks to integrate interior design and Feng Shui closely in her work. Her favorite thing about Feng Shui is that it combines her experience and expertise in design and architecture with her innate desire to promote health and well-being. Seeing the smiles on her clients’ faces, hearing the emotion in their testimonials, and knowing that she helped make a difference in their lives is truly what makes all the difference in hers. Her goal is to help you achieve a living space that’s striking, inviting, and functions practically for your lifestyle. Marina take a common-sense approach to Feng Shui – sorting through the myriad of misconceptions, alleviating your concerns and utilizing an age-old philosophical system to promote harmony and good energy in your home through thoughtful, compelling design.  She works locally with clients, and also provides her services online regardless of your location. Marina specialises in residential work and helps homeowners globally. She seeks to create custom solutions for her clients using beautiful and timeless design principles in combination with the power of intention. Marina wants you to have a home that feels as good as it looks. I’ve been wanting to talk about Feng Shui on the podcast for AGES now, so it’s even more exciting to be bringing this chat with Marina to you.  Now, let’s meet our next guest. Jake Krokowski is a designer based in South Carolina, USA. In 2015, he founded JWK Design, to help families realise their dream of a comfortable, modern home. With 20 years industry and design experience, Jake has worked on design teams for large international resorts and prominent public projects, most notably the reconstruction of the World Trade Center in New York.  As well as working with clients on their custom new homes and renovations, he is also a registered Landscape Architect. He can assist with  + Landscape & Architectural design concepts & planning  + Construction drawings & material selection  + Bid review & contractor vetting  + Construction oversight & quality control Jake shares some great insight into what most challenges homeowners, and how he helps them to get clear on their project needs and desires. So, let’s dive into my chat with Jake. Listen to the episode now. And be sure to get in touch with Marina and Jake to let them know you heard them on Undercover Architect, and to thank them for all they share!! This podcast is an edited version of the full interviews with Marina and Jake. Those interviews are now featured inside my online course “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners.   Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ to learn more about “The Welcome Home Course”. In the full interview, Marina has some fantastic help in ... how you can use intentionality in your design for great results where she has seen improper use of Feng Shui impact homeowners why your health and wellbeing is such a big part of your home design understanding ceilings as the 5th elevation of each room recommendations for finding out more about Feng Shui for your project In Jake’s full interview, he has some great tips for ... how to design for Carolina’s climate and conditions what type of roofing, materials and window systems are best for this type of climate the planning conditions in the Carolinas to be aware of local resources to help you with renovating and building in the Carolinas In “The Welcome Home Course”, I’ve teamed up with award-winning American architect, Eric Reinholdt, to create a specific course for American homeowners. If you’re planning your renovation or new build, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and confused about the best way forward. Many homeowners make the mistake of diving in, and fall for all sorts of terrible advice as a result. And the journey becomes far more stressful, expensive and time consuming as a result. And their finished home never lives up to the dreams they held so dear. When you have the steps to follow … the map for your journey ahead, you can then move confidently towards that future home you’re dreaming of, and not waste any time or money.  When you know that step-by-step system has been created over decades of experience in hundreds and hundreds of family homes like yours, you can save so much stress in your project, and create a home that works and feels great. And when you have the steps, as well as professional know-how, design knowledge, tools, resources, and guides, you can shortcut your journey, enjoy your experience, and avoid the heartache and drama so many experience. If you’re keen to make your journey simpler, be confident that the home you’re dreaming of is achievable, and know the steps to get you there …’The Welcome Home Course’ is the way. Together with Eric, we’ve packaged up almost 45 years experience to show you the way to your future family home.  Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ to learn more and join us. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Find more information and links to Marina V Umali, Marina V Design Studio, here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-feng-shui-marina-umali-marina-v-design-studio Learn more about Jake Krokowski and get links to JWK Design, here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-important-to-know-building-renovating-jake-krokowski-jwk-design Find out about “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ And “How to Get it Right” for Aussie homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you choose the right architect to work with? And how can you work well with them to keep your project on budget, and create a beautiful, long-term, family home? Welcome to Episode 2 of Season 10. In this episode, I have two Australian architects who are bringing their industry insider insights to you … and from both sides of the country, with very different careers. My first guest on this episode, is Christopher Megowan, of Megowan Architectural, a Melbourne-based firm. And my second guest is Suzie Hunt, of Suzanne Hunt Architect, a business based in Perth and working all through Western Australia. SHOW NOTES: Now, I’ve got a slightly longer episode for you this week, as I wanted to bring these interviews together, because I believe both these architects share a huge wealth of knowledge and experience, and what you’ll learn will really benefit you in your renovation or new build project. These guests are Christopher Megowan, of Megowan Architectural, a Melbourne-based firm, and Suzie Hunt, of Suzanne Hunt Architect, a business based in Perth and working all through Western Australia. So, firstly let me tell you about Chris. For over a decade, Christopher Megowan, director of M – A, has passionately dedicated himself to the study, teaching and practice of Architecture, design and development. Christopher earned a Bachelor of Architecture (5 Year professional degree) from the University of Southern California in 2008 where he received numerous honours, scholarships, grants and awards. Acting as owner, designer, and developer, he completed his first built work prior to graduating University. Since then, he has been involved in projects ranging from bar & cafe fitouts to single family homes & 50 unit mixed use developments. Prior to starting M – A, Christopher cut his teeth working for award winning Architecture practices in Los Angeles, London, and Melbourne. Christopher has taught multiple design and construction studios at the University of Melbourne and Monash University at both undergraduate and graduate levels as well as served as a guest critic in Architecture for several different courses. Megowan Architectural was established in 2009 and is a talented team of Architects that are united by a desire for excellence. M – A is less about a singular style, instead they are committed to the specifics of each project and to creating timeless spaces. Each project brings its own complexities and parameters which they carefully respond to by understanding their clients and how they want to interact with their spaces, and in turn how their spaces will interact with them. And, I can’t wait to introduce my SECOND guest for this interview … Suzie Hunt. Suzanne Hunt is an award-winning architect based in West Australia, and she founded her own practice, Suzanne Hunt Architect, in 2004. Suzanne Hunt Architect is a boutique architectural and interior design practice specialising in residential, heritage, hospitality and mixed use projects in Perth and country Western Australia. Known for her down-to-earth approach and wide-ranging professional and life experiences, architect Suzie Hunt has a warm and engaging manner that manifests in the buildings and spaces she designs. Her practice – founded in 2004 – specialises in architecture and interior design across a range of sectors, and provides strategic advice on design and heritage issues. Suzie employs a small in-house team of architects and interior designers, and works with trusted external consultants and professional builders, all of whom are selected for their expertise and suitability for each project. She prides herself on maintaining a highly personalised service for her clients, from site selection, initial briefing and concept design through to construction, administration and project completion. Her work is strongly influenced by Western Australia’s stunning landscapes, resulting in timeless buildings and spaces that are fit-for-purpose and beautifully detailed. Suzie brings a wealth of knowledge to the business of architecture; as well as running her own practice she has worked at state and local government levels, and currently sits on several executive boards. As such, Suzanne Hunt Architects delivers projects that are financially viable, environmentally sustainable and aesthetically innovative. One of Suzie’s most important roles as an architect is to help her clients enjoy their creative journey; she listens carefully so she can nurture and shape their dreams. “Great architecture enriches our lives physically, psychologically, spiritually and emotionally, and leaves a legacy for generations to come,” she says. “It’s important that we get it right, together.” Listen to the episode now. And be sure to get in touch with Suzie and Chris to let them know you heard them on Undercover Architect, and to thank them for all they share!! This podcast is an edited version of the full interviews with Chris and Suzie. Those interviews are now featured inside my online course “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home” for Australian homeowners.   Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ to learn more about “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home”. In the full interview, Chris also shares information on ... how he incorporates flexibility as an approach in his projects the design strategy that makes his own project (and home) a great example of what’s possible when desiging ‘in section’ his learnings from his own project, and what he recommends you consider in your own what makes a family home functional and flexible over the long-term In Suzie’s full interview, she has some great tips for ... how she assesses each project to be sure it’s tracking on budget, how homeowners have changed what they’re wanting in their homes over the past 14 years of her business, her thoughts on whether every project deserves an architect, and construction and planning in Western Australia (if you’re building or renovating in WA, this is awesome info!)   Wondering how to build or renovate your family home without the drama, budget blowouts or costly mistakes? The “How To Get It Right in Your Reno or New Home E-Course” gives you access to all of the information and knowledge you need to create the home you want. My years of experience with homeowners just like you, has shown me that making mis-steps in the early planning days ... and then continuing to make them ... can fundamentally impact your reno or building project. And send you in the wrong (and expensive) direction. “How To Get It Right” is designed on the system I’ve followed during my own, and my clients', renovation and building projects. It is a framework for your journey from start to finish. I arm you with the tools and knowledge you need to save time, money and stress. And get it right the first time. This detailed, step-by-step framework, will simplify your entire project journey and give you the tools to ... > Feel confident about the steps you need to take in your project. > Know how to keep everything on budget and on time. > Avoid the pitfalls and mistakes that lead to disaster stories. > Be in control, keep your sanity and enjoy the journey! "How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Build" will transform your renovation or building experience - and the finished home waiting for you at the end of your journey.   Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ to learn more and join us. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about Chris Megowan and get links to Megowan Architectural, here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-one-thing-renovating-and-building-christopher-megowan-architect Find more information and links to Suzie Hunt, Suzanne Hunt Architect, here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-working-with-architect-suzanne-hunt-perth Find out about “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ And “How to Get it Right” for Aussie homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you find a great quality architect? One you have a good fit with, delivers beautiful work, and will take care of you as a client? Meet Anthony Laney from Laney LA. Anthony is an architect and designer, a husband and a dad, and one of the owners of Laney LA. In this interview, Anthony shares some fantastic industry insider insights into how Laney LA have built their practice, continue to create stunning homes, and how they seek to delight every client they work with. SHOW NOTES:  Together with his wife, Krista, Anthony founded LANEY LA in 2014. Located in Los Angeles, their team focusses on fast-paced, high impact design solutions for home and businessowners. Laney LA has a unique way of sharing their business and projects that shows a strong and powerful company culture, a true commitment to communicating their values and mission, the fun and enjoyment in their team, their clients and the homes they’re creating, and even though you’re following along, it’s shared in a way that makes you feel part of it. When you find people who are so passionate about what they do, and are a force to be reckoned with in how they’re seeking to improve how they practice, whilst delivering top level services and stunning homes … well, you just want to help them spread the word. Anthony is a powerful communicator, an innovative entrepreneur, and together with the team at Laney LA, is driving change in this industry and creating beautiful family homes and happy clients whilst they do it. And causing a bit of disruption whilst they do … smiling and looking like it’s a heck of a lot of fun! I ASKED ANTHONY THESE QUESTIONS ... When you started Laney LA with Krista, did you have intentions around the type of work you took on, goals you were seeking to hit, or clear client criteria for example? How do you use Instagram for Laney LA and what are your goals there? How do you suggest homeowners establish that ‘right fit’ between themselves and their designer? How do you explain your process to your potential clients? How does technology travel through the process, and what advantages do you think it gives you? How does your process test the budget as the design develops? Do you have suggestions for how homeowners and designers can bring surprise and delight to their home when on lower budgets?   Anthony was incredibly generous with his answers, and has fantastic advice that any homeowner will benefit from. And if you’re a designer or architect building your own business, this is the gold standard to aim for. Listen to the episode now. And be sure to get in touch with Anthony to let him know you heard him on Undercover Architect, and to thank him for all he shares!! This podcast is a snippet of the full interview which now is featured inside my online course “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners.   Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ to learn more about “The Welcome Home Course”. In the full interview, Anthony shares more information about designing for a Californian climate, dealing with difficult local authorities, as well as other tips for a great lifestyle in your home.  In “The Welcome Home Course”, I’ve teamed up with award-winning American architect, Eric Reinholdt, to create a specific course for American homeowners. If you’re planning your renovation or new build, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and confused about the best way forward. Many homeowners make the mistake of diving in, and fall for all sorts of terrible advice as a result. And the journey becomes far more stressful, expensive and time consuming as a result. And their finished home never lives up to the dreams they held so dear. When you have the steps to follow … the map for your journey ahead, you can then move confidently towards that future home you’re dreaming of, and not waste any time or money. When you know that step-by-step system has been created over decades of experience in hundreds and hundreds of family homes like yours, you can save so much stress in your project, and create a home that works and feels great. And when you have the steps, as well as professional know-how, design knowledge, tools, resources, and guides, you can shortcut your journey, enjoy your experience, and avoid the heartache and drama so many experience. If you’re keen to make your journey simpler, be confident that the home you’re dreaming of is achievable, and know the steps to get you there …’The Welcome Home Course’ is the way. Together with Eric, we’ve packaged up almost 45 years experience to show you the way to your future family home.  Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ to learn more and join us. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Find Laney LA on the web >>> https://www.laney.la/ Follow them on Instagram >>> https://www.instagram.com/laneylainc/?hl=en And Facebook is here >>> https://www.facebook.com/LaneyLAinc/ The Proven Process “Delighted Client” Journey is here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/LaneyLA-ProvenProcessDelightedClientMap.pdf Find out about “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ And “How to Get it Right” for Aussie homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do industry insiders think it’s important for you to know when building or renovating? One of the reasons I created Undercover Architect, and why I continue to make so much knowledge and advice freely available, is because in my 20+ year career in architecture, I felt I was always finding people too late. I'd be at the school gate, or at a BBQ, and someone would find out I was an architect, and then proceed to tell me the horror story of theirs, a family member's or a friend's project. And there was always a consistent element ... they could have avoided the drama with the right advice at the right time. And anything I told them now was too late for them. SHOW NOTES: So much information and knowledge gets locked up inside the 1:1 relationship a homeowner has with their designer or their builder. In that long journey of renovating or building, it can feel like 'pot luck' whether you end up with the right people, or getting the right advice at the right time. Spoiler alert ... it's not pot luck. Within every disaster story I hear, there's 2 common things: a homeowner not knowing what to ask for, demand or expect a red flag (or bunch of them) that got missed or ignored and not dealt with There are hundreds of thousands of homeowners that visit Undercover Architect's website each year. Thousands listen to this podcast every week. Thousands receive my weekly email. Heck - there's over a million people each month that look at Undercover Architect's Pinterest account (1.3 million to be precise!!) And yet, I still hear ... "I wish we'd found you sooner" "I wish I'd bought your course before we got to this point" "I now tell all my friends and family to check out Undercover Architect so they don't have to experience what I did". I’m doing my very best to spread the word that Undercover Architect is here, ready to help, with loads of knowledge and guidance available for homeowners. And I know many of you share Undercover Architect with your friends, family, neighbours and workmates … and I can’t thank you enough for continuing to spread the word with me. I’m on a mission to make horror builds and renovations a thing of the past. For you to all love and enjoy your projects, and create fantastic homes with design that works and helps you feel great. Part of this is always making sure it’s not only my voice you hear. I want to bring you insights from other industry colleagues to expand all of our knowledge and experience. And I’m always seeking to help introduce like-minded professionals to the UA Community, because I know you’re keen to find good people to help you with your projects. This season is going to be jam-packed with a range of different types of professionals, different areas of expertise and all my guests have one thing in common. They are super generous with their advice and knowledge. Listen to the episode now to meet our industry insiders, and stay tuned for a great season ahead. These podcast episodes will be edited versions of the full interviews which will now be featured inside my online courses …   “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners, and “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home” for Aussie homeowners. And they’re featured in there in both video and audio form. As Undercover Architect has grown as an online business, I’ve loved being able to reach and connect with homeowners from all corners of the globe. I’ve got almost 25 years industry experience in design, building and renovating in Australia. And what I’ve found is that my step-by-step system for any renovation or new building project (the one I’ve been using in client projects and my own projects for all of that time) is that when I teach this system to you, it can help you as a homeowner save time, money and stress in your project. When you have the steps to follow, the map for your journey ahead, you can then move confidently towards that future home you’re dreaming of, and not waste any time or money. When you know that step-by-step system has been created over decades of experience in hundreds and hundreds of family homes like yours, you can save so much stress in your project, and create a home that works and feels great. And when you have the steps, as well as professional know-how, design knowledge, tools, resources, and guides, you can shortcut your journey, enjoy your experience, and avoid the heartache and drama so many experience. If you’re keen to make your journey simpler, be confident that the home you’re dreaming of is achievable, and know the steps to get you there, these online courses are the way. In them, I’ve literally packaged up what is in my head and heart from almost 25 years experience to show you the way to your future family home. Want to learn more about the courses? If you’re an Aussie, head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ If you’re an American, head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ And I’ve got a special bonus for the gorgeous UA Community podcast listeners. Just use the code “PODCAST” when you join, and you’ll immediately access a $50 saving. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: To learn more about the courses ... If you’re an Aussie, head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ If you’re an American, head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you chasing the after photo? Styling and staging may be seducing you to make the wrong choices for your home design. As you browse the internet, look at glossy magazines and spend hours on Pinterest, it’s easy to fall in love (and aspire to achieve) the images you see of renovation and building projects. But it’s not all about the ‘after’ photo. SHOW NOTES: The way we view renovations and new homes when we look online, or on reality TV, is very carefully crafted. Heavily curated homes, with the ‘right’ amount of furniture, artwork, cushions, rugs, and throws, make for beautiful photographs we begin to lust after and collect as inspiration for our own home. It can be easy to think … “I just need to achieve that ‘look’ and my home will be perfect. However, in my experience, styling and staging are not what make a home work. It’s not how a great home design is actually achieved. And it can seduce you into chasing the ‘after’ photo, and ending up with a home that’s disappointing and lacks soul. Far too often I see homeowners start down the path of creating a home that is truly, uniquely theirs … and get lost in the on-trend, stylish and lust-worthy photos. They lose confidence in their own style, their own desires. And they create a cookie-cutter version of whatever is trending on Pinterest right now. And the worst of it? Because the ‘look’ is usually high-end, they find knock-offs and low-cost substitutes to create it. Knowing they’re not durable. Knowing they’ll break down in a few years. With any luck, they’ll be out of fashion by then, and it won’t matter too much. STOP. You … and your home … deserve better than this. Don’t go chasing that ‘after’ photo at the cost of living sustainably, flexibly and authentically. Seek your way to keep it real, and create a home that works for you, and your family. A home that is “YOU-WORTHY”. This episode is brought to you by my online course “Manage Your Build”. Are you planning to build your new home or renovation? Do you fear it will be a stress-filled ride of budget blowouts, compromises and dramas? MANAGE YOUR BUILD provides you with industry-insider knowledge, checklists and strategies to save you time, money and your own sanity when building your new home or renovation. A collaboration between Amelia Lee, Undercover Architect, and Duayne Pearce, of D Pearce Constructions, Manage Your Build shares know-how, expertise and experience from over 45 years in residential design, building and renovation. This online course will prepare you for your construction phase so you can know you're actually getting what you're paying for, and avoid the heartache and drama of a horror build. It gives you the clarity, confidence and information you need to start your project on the right foot - and navigate throughout each stage of construction. Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to learn more and join us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Renovating or building your forever family home is entirely different to flipping a home for profit - but not in all the ways you think. Many homeowners seek advice and guidance from reality TV and online renovating or building experts who are flipping homes for profit. It can be a misleading way to seek help for your forever family home. Flipping and forever are very different mindsets. When you’re creating your forever family home, the significance of what you’re doing can be overwhelming. SHOW NOTES: If flipping the home, there’s a certain freedom that comes from knowing you won’t be the one living with the consequences of your decisions. Decisions don’t seem so consequential - not for you anyway. This is entirely different to the exercise of building or renovating your forever family home. I see homeowners unable to be detached or objective about the outcomes they’re choosing for their forever family home. In a previous episode, I talked about the emotional baggage we bring to the process of creating our forever family home. Whether building or renovating, we will attach a huge amount to the realisation of our home dreams. There’s memories, status, future hopes and dreams, current achievement, identity … the list goes on. And those factors can mean we are VERY attached to the outcomes we’re creating in our projects. As a result, every decision can feel BIG. Like it’s the thing that will make or break our hopes and dreams. From a bathroom tile, to the size of our living space, all choices can overwhelm and consume us with their significance. This is entirely different to the exercise of flipping for profit. With profit as your objective, decisions have a compass, a goal to achieve. It can bring a clarity we lack in the emotional process of building or renovating a forever family home. Even when online or reality TV building or renovating experts are doing their own homes, they approach it with a different mindset to the average homeowner. I see this play out in my own experience, as well as what I see happening in the industry. As a homeowner, you mostly likely want this to be the first and last time you ever tackle a renovation or building project. Operating outside of your comfort zone, making such a big financial investment, and feeling under pressure … well, who would sign up to that again, hey? Homeowners instead face every decision they make with the weight of regret. Will this be the wrong choice for our family? Will I come to dislike this in the future? Will my house look dated over time? Will this be a terrible frustration we get annoyed by? Will people think I’m foolish because I didn’t get this right? For some reason, we believe that we should be good at this … that it’s something that should come naturally to us. However, it’s not the case. And when we’re looking to those who are flipping for profit as our advisors, we can be seriously misled in our own journeys. Give yourself permission for this to feel like a big deal. This is your forever family home you are building or renovating. So decisions will feel big, and you’ll worry about regretting your choices. Listen to the podcast as I help you navigate this, and share where to get support from so you can find the process enjoyable and empowering. This episode is brought to you by my online course “Manage Your Build”. Are you planning to build your new home or renovation? Do you fear it will be a stress-filled ride of budget blowouts, compromises and dramas? MANAGE YOUR BUILD provides you with industry-insider knowledge, checklists and strategies to save you time, money and your own sanity when building your new home or renovation. A collaboration between Amelia Lee, Undercover Architect, and Duayne Pearce, of D Pearce Constructions, Manage Your Build shares know-how, expertise and experience from over 45 years in residential design, building and renovation. This online course will prepare you for your construction phase so you can know you're actually getting what you're paying for, and avoid the heartache and drama of a horror build. It gives you the clarity, confidence and information you need to start your project on the right foot - and navigate throughout each stage of construction. Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to learn more and join us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’re just wanting to get your renovation or new home built, the real life process may be disappointing for you. Why? Reality TV and online renovating / building are ALL about the build … and this is a huge departure from the time, investment and team required to make your project happen. The real life process involves a lot more than just the construction phase. SHOW NOTES: There are actually 4 phases to any project. Whether you’re building or renovating, wherever you’re located, and whatever your budget. These 4 phases are: #1 Before you begin #2 Getting your design right #3 Before you build #4 Getting your project built Reality TV and online renovating and building are all about phase #4. Because this is the exciting part. It makes good content. It creates engaging, dramatic footage. And it’s fun to see a dream take shape in floors, rooms and buildings on a site. So many homeowners focus their attention and effort on racing to the construction phase. It’s all about the build. Fast-tracking the design. Going directly to a builder with their own floor plan. A huge sense of urgency to make.it.happen. Because that’s what we see on TV and online … dramatic countdowns to insane deadlines, and exhausted but elated renovators and home builders loving what they’ve created (insert high-fiving here). In reality TV and online, it makes great content. In real life … it’s a recipe for a stressful, expensive and not-so-great build. For not getting the choices you want in your home. For blowing your budget. For blowing your timeline. And for missing opportunities to create the right home for you in a managed, strategic and on-budget way. So what will really get your project built? In this episode, I share key things you need to know about every phase of your renovation or building project. I also give tips to help you get it right so that construction is low-stress, runs smoothly, and you get what you actually want for your home. This episode is brought to you by my online course “Manage Your Build”. Are you planning to build your new home or renovation? Do you fear it will be a stress-filled ride of budget blowouts, compromises and dramas? MANAGE YOUR BUILD provides you with industry-insider knowledge, checklists and strategies to save you time, money and your own sanity when building your new home or renovation. A collaboration between Amelia Lee, Undercover Architect, and Duayne Pearce, of D Pearce Constructions, Manage Your Build shares know-how, expertise and experience from over 45 years in residential design, building and renovation. This online course will prepare you for your construction phase so you can know you're actually getting what you're paying for, and avoid the heartache and drama of a horror build. It gives you the clarity, confidence and information you need to start your project on the right foot - and navigate throughout each stage of construction. Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to learn more and join us.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The most significant differences between real life renovating and building and reality TV and online versions is COST and TIME. Why does it seem so much cheaper and faster to renovate or build in the television or online world? SHOW NOTES: I’ve been working with homeowners for almost 25 years now, and one thing has been constant. Their expectations of what it will cost, and how long it will take, are vastly different to real life renovating and building. You’ll be told by well-meaning friends when you announce you’re planning to renovate or build … “You know what they say? It’ll cost you twice as much and take twice as long as you plan it to.” However, in my experience … homeowners commence the process with a budget that’s 50% - 75% of where it needs to match their brief (their needs, wants, wishes and desires for their home). And they don’t understand how long the whole process will take, and that it can sometimes be 2 to 3 years from start to finish. Why this big mismatch between expectations and reality? Well, I believe this is the most significant difference between real life renovating and building, and what is presented on reality TV and online versions. Listen to the episode now, as I help you be more aware of these differences. And how you can manage your expectations more realistically to save cost, time AND stress on your project. This episode is brought to you by my online course “Manage Your Build”. Are you planning to build your new home or renovation? Do you fear it will be a stress-filled ride of budget blowouts, compromises and dramas? MANAGE YOUR BUILD provides you with industry-insider knowledge, checklists and strategies to save you time, money and your own sanity when building your new home or renovation. A collaboration between Amelia Lee, Undercover Architect, and Duayne Pearce, of D Pearce Constructions, Manage Your Build shares know-how, expertise and experience from over 45 years in residential design, building and renovation. This online course will prepare you for your construction phase so you can know you're actually getting what you're paying for, and avoid the heartache and drama of a horror build. It gives you the clarity, confidence and information you need to start your project on the right foot - and navigate throughout each stage of construction. Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to learn more and join us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What style is my house? And my preferred taste? Do you find yourself asking this question when renovating or building? Everyone wants to know “What style is my house?” But naming your style can be dangerous and limiting. SHOW NOTES: One of the things I see that’s really prevalent in the world of reality TV and online building and renovating is this desire to name the style you’re seeking for your project (and future home). It’s a common question others will ask you too. “What style are you doing? … Hamptons is SO popular right now!” With names like Scandi, Plantation, Industrial, French Provincial, Coastal, there’s a huge range of descriptions for an apparent choice of style, look, finishes, colours and fabrics. And you’ll see many online renovators and builders teach you to ‘pull together your vision’ … or create your vision board or scrapbook to show others the look you want for your home. They recommend it as a great way to get clear on what you want, and also explain it to others. Whilst I do believe that images are a brilliant way to explain your preferences to those on your team, I have this warning … The names of these styles all have origins in specific times, cultures and locations. And they were created for specific reasons. Sometimes it was related to climate, material availability, building technology and trade skills. Sometimes it was the next-stage development of an existing style. Sometimes it was a complete rejection of the status quo or traditional way of doing things. Sometimes it was socio-economic. When you look back through architectural, design and art history, the style names we’re grabbing and applying to how we want our home to ‘look’, are usually based in meaningful history and motivations at the time. When you seek to name the style of your future home, without truly understanding the historical origins of that style or its specific characteristics, this can be confusing for your project and design team. And you can seriously limit your project as others interpret what you want and don’t want. And if you’re basing your choice of style on a series of images you’ve grabbed from a range of houses that actually aren’t that style at all … well, the confusion continues. Styles aren’t simply names of detailing, fabric and colour choices. I know homeowners feel it works for them to name their style, but what worries me is that it can (because I’ve seen it happen) create inauthentic designs that are a veneer over terrible planning and functionality. It’s also worth understanding that a style name and a vision board is not a brief. A brief is the main communication tool you need for your project - whoever you’re working with, and wherever you’re building or renovating. And some of the best briefs I’ve received don’t ever mention a style. They describe a feeling. Appropriating cultures and styles from elsewhere that don’t have suitability for your local area can cause issues with the performance of your home, and also making it difficult to get planning approval from your local council. More importantly, it means you can miss an incredible opportunity to express YOUR style. A style that is specific to its time, location and climate … and suits you and your family authentically. In this episode, I talk about what are the problems with naming your style, and how to instead think about your wishes for your home so they can actually be delivered by your team. If you want a home that is functional, and feels complete, authentic and whole, then listen to the episode now. This episode is brought to you by my online course “Manage Your Build”. Are you planning to build your new home or renovation? Do you fear it will be a stress-filled ride of budget blowouts, compromises and dramas? MANAGE YOUR BUILD provides you with industry-insider knowledge, checklists and strategies to save you time, money and your own sanity when building your new home or renovation. A collaboration between Amelia Lee, Undercover Architect, and Duayne Pearce, of D Pearce Constructions, Manage Your Build shares know-how, expertise and experience from over 45 years in residential design, building and renovation. This online course will prepare you for your construction phase so you can know you're actually getting what you're paying for, and avoid the heartache and drama of a horror build. It gives you the clarity, confidence and information you need to start your project on the right foot - and navigate throughout each stage of construction. Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to learn more and join us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SEASON 9 - KEEPING IT REAL EPISODE 03 - Anyone can renovate or build their home (apparently) They say anyone can build or renovate their home - can’t they? Then why does it go SO wrong for so many. Well-meaning reality TV renovating and building mentors and online experts will tell you “Anyone can do this”. “We didn’t know what we were doing either when we started. Look at us now! You don’t need to be a professional. We’re just mums / people like you. And we figured it out.” And this can be really misleading for homeowners taking on the design, renovation or new build of their own family home. SHOW NOTES: Scratch below the surface of these reality TV and online experts and you’ll find a tribe of professionals and consultants who support and guide them on their projects. Who help ensure they meet council requirements, pass building inspections, that their design actually works, and that their project will be durable, legal and livable. You’ll also find financial safety nets, and the ability to dedicate time, focus and energy into their projects that the average homeowner simply doesn’t have available. There’s a big difference between industry experts and industry professionals. Liability, learning, support networks and access to knowledge. Expectations as well. As a homeowner, you’ll be renovating or building your family home and wanting to get it right the first time. You don’t have the luxury, room or time to ‘learn on the job’. Or another job, another project, someone else’s house, to get it right on. When you don’t know what you don’t know, you can find you waste time and money on the gaps in your knowledge. And when industry experts online and on TV don’t know what they don’t know (because they’ve learnt on their own projects, trial by error and done a handful only), big mistakes can get made as well. Now - please understand - I’m very aware that being an industry professional does not make you immune to human error and unexpected challenges. However, being an industry professional does mean you have a network and context to draw on in order to manage and mitigate risk - rather than the newbie approach of winging it. Renovating and building isn’t easy. Anyone can do it, but only with the right support. It definitely can be simplified. And when you get it right - it is SO WORTH THE EFFORT. Learn how to really protect yourself in your project, and support yourself so you get it right the first time. Listen to the episode now. This episode is brought to you by my online course “Manage Your Build”. Are you planning to build your new home or renovation? Do you fear it will be a stress-filled ride of budget blowouts, compromises and dramas? MANAGE YOUR BUILD provides you with industry-insider knowledge, checklists and strategies to save you time, money and your own sanity when building your new home or renovation. A collaboration between Amelia Lee, Undercover Architect, and Duayne Pearce, of D Pearce Constructions, Manage Your Build shares know-how, expertise and experience from over 45 years in residential design, building and renovation. This online course will prepare you for your construction phase so you can know you're actually getting what you're paying for, and avoid the heartache and drama of a horror build. It gives you the clarity, confidence and information you need to start your project on the right foot - and navigate throughout each stage of construction. Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to learn more and join us. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST, CLICK HERE.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nervous about building or renovating? Want to manage your project well? You may be surprised to hear many say it’s like having children. This is why. A mum posted this in a Renovating Facebook group … Today I realised how much doing a renovation is like having children. It takes way more time and commitment than you ever thought it would. You receive constant conflicting advice and everyone thinks they know best. You’re woken in the night with the sudden thought that you’ve chosen completely the wrong tile and your bathroom will be disaster. You leave for work with knots of anxiety wondering if you’ve left your home in the care of the right builders. Now I realise why I’m feeling so bloody stressed! … I knew she’d nailed it. SHOW NOTES: In this episode, I talk about the unexpected blindside in renovating and building: the emotional piece. Many expect that it’ll be a stressful process due to it being outside the normal comfort zone. However, very few anticipate what it’s like to: Be so emotionally invested in the outcome Manage decision overwhelm Deal with difficult conversations, conflict and confrontations Require long-term stamina Stay true to what is important and valuable to you With over 20 years of doing working in this industry, I see homeowners deal with stress and the unknowns. Your home (and the new build or renovation of it) is not only one of your biggest assets and investments … but most underestimate the emotional piece. There’s an unexpected attachment we have to “home”, the identity and status, future hopes and dreams for our life and family. And the sense of accomplishment and achievement our homes represent. It’s a HUGE amount of pressure to get it right ... with little or no prior experience and a huge leap of faith. And loads of well-meaning but often totally misguided advice about what you “must” have or do to make your home (and you) complete. My recommendation? Take care of yourself, and keep asking questions. I find when women ask lots of questions, they start to feel more informed and empowered as a result. And they let their team know they’re invested and keen to be involved and get a great result. In this episode, I dive into these issues in more detail, and provide tips and strategies for you to manage yourself, and your project, well. Join me, as I share with you the way to keep it real, and create a you-worthy home. Listen to the episode now. This episode is brought to you by my online course “Manage Your Build”. Are you planning to build your new home or renovation? Do you fear it will be a stress-filled ride of budget blow-outs, compromises and dramas? MANAGE YOUR BUILD provides you with industry-insider knowledge, checklists and strategies to save you time, money and your own sanity when building your new home or renovation. A collaboration between Amelia Lee, Undercover Architect, and Duayne Pearce, of D Pearce Constructions, Manage Your Build shares know-how, expertise and experience from over 45 years in residential design, building and renovation. This online course will prepare you for your construction phase so you can know you're actually getting what you're paying for, and avoid the heartache and drama of a horror build. It gives you the clarity, confidence and information you need to start your project on the right foot - and navigate throughout each stage of construction. Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to learn more and join us. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planning a renovation or new home and inspired by reality TV, YouTube and social media? You may already be aware that real life renovating and building is not the same as reality TV. But how different is it? And are you REALLY aware of how damaging and misleading it can be to your journey? I’m nervous about this season of episodes … but I feel this conversation is important and timely. And I feel that there’s an alternative way to creating a great home that feels great, when we choose to KEEP IT REAL. SHOW NOTES: In this season of the podcast, I share openly and frankly what I’m seeing happen to homeowners who embark on their renovation and new home projects. And why reality TV, Youtube and social media ‘inspiration’ can be damaging and misleading in so many ways. In this episode, I talk about ... Why I’m nervous about being so frank and open with you about reality TV and real life renovating and building Why I feel this conversation is so important at this time What I’m seeing happen for homeowners who are misled and miseducated by industry experts What blindsides homeowners time and time again - and causes huge stress and anguish What is actually tied up in creating our home (and that we don’t anticipate) Why a magazine-worthy home can be a damaging goal for many Some personal stories of what home can really mean as a place of connection and memory-making How great design isn’t about glamour or stylishness And what I know endures beyond the success metrics we create for our homes and ourselves In the 20 plus years I’ve been helping homeowners design, build and renovate their family homes, (and the projects of my own I’ve also done), I’ve had a front-row seat to what real life renovating and building is like. And I’ve also seen how keeping it real is the best way you can prepare yourself for your project … and stay true and authentic to what will ultimately best suit you and your family, and serve you over the long term. Join me, as I share with you the way to keep it real, and create a you-worthy home. Listen to the episode now. This episode is brought to you by my online course “Manage Your Build”. Are you planning to build your new home or renovation? Do you fear it will be a stress-filled ride of budget blow-outs, compromises and dramas? MANAGE YOUR BUILD provides you with industry-insider knowledge, checklists and strategies to save you time, money and your own sanity when building your new home or renovation. A collaboration between Amelia Lee, Undercover Architect, and Duayne Pearce, of D Pearce Constructions, Manage Your Build shares know-how, expertise and experience from over 45 years in residential design, building and renovation. This online course will prepare you for your construction phase so you can know you're actually getting what you're paying for, and avoid the heartache and drama of a horror build. It gives you the clarity, confidence and information you need to start your project on the right foot - and navigate throughout each stage of construction. Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to learn more and join us. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to build a sustainable forever home? Frances Cosway of White Pebble Interiors tells us about her family home. The White Pebble Home is a stunning example of a family home that is designed to be sustainable, flexible and adaptable. And it has a natural pool to die for! SHOW NOTES: Meet Frances Cosway from White Pebble Interiors Frances is an interior designer, published author and speaker with a passion for creating beautiful homes people love to live in. With over 15 years’ experience in renovating and building, her true passion lies with helping clients design and build their ‘Forever Homes’. Having lived in Europe for 12 years, she draws on her own unique influences whilst seamlessly incorporating the individual styles of her clients when developing projects. Her philosophy on design is that your home is a story of you; how you live, your lifestyle and your life journey. She’s committed to ensuring every home she works on is a true reflection of its owners, based on these principles. Frances established White Pebble Interiors in 2010, after leaving the corporate world. White Pebble Interiors is an interior design studio that specialises in creating bespoke Forever Homes. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, they pride ourselves on recommending sustainable principles and using sustainable materials wherever they can. They are open and honest and break with convention to ensure designs are not just ‘good enough’ but reflect what their clients really want them to be, based on how they live their life. Frances wrote the book ‘Your Forever Home’ in 2017 as a practical guide for people about to embark on building or renovating. She has completed many of her own new build and subdivision projects including the build of her family’s own ‘Forever Home’ in 2014. The house has featured in several publications including House & Garden and The Herald Sun and has been profiled internationally on Houzz. It won Winner of Bayside’s Best Ecological & Sustainable Build Award in 2015. And in this episode, we’ll be talking about this very home. In this episode, I ask Frances … So, tell us a bit about who is in your family and who the home is built for? And the home’s size and location? When you guys decided to build a new home, how did that make you feel as an Interior Designer? Did you have specific goals around designing and building sustainably? Or did it all happen more organically than that? Did you feel you were going to have to budget extra for a sustainable home? Or make any compromises? How did you go about designing for sustainability? What specific sustainability measures did you incorporate? You did a blog about opening it up for Sustainable House Open Day, and how interested people were in the timber tiles. Can you tell us more about them, and the other finishes you chose for the home? The pool … tell us all about the pool … your own billabong! Is there anything you’d do differently, or wish you had included? I’m really excited to share this home, and Frances, with you. I think you’re going to really enjoy hearing their journey to a sustainable home, and take away some great ideas and tips for your own project. Listen to the episode now. This episode is brought to you by my online course “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home”. This is a superfast course that will help you get ready for your renovation or building project in the best way possible. In it, I share my step-by-step system to help you save time, money and stress in your project, so you can know what you need to know and create the perfect home for you - simply and with confidence … avoiding the dramas and heartaches. You can join now, get access to a fantastic Facebook community, Live Q & A sessions with me, and all the tools and resources you need to achieve success in your project. Head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/howtogetitright to learn more and join us. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you renovate a home as a Passive House (or Passivehaus)? Especially when that home is an early 1900s weatherboard cottage? In this episode, I’m going to be sharing the experience of a homeowner who renovated their early 1900s weatherboard home into a Passive House. They’ve lived in it now for 3 years, and it’s located in inner Melbourne, about 10km from the CBD. This project is a great opportunity to see how an old weatherboard home can be renovated into a Passive Home that is comfortable and saves thousands in running costs each year. Cameron’s family home is known as Armadale Passivhaus. They open this home for Sustainable House Open Day each year, and Cameron also has a great website on all the nitty gritty details of the home and project (see the resources below for more information). Circa 1910, this weatherboard home faces north-to-street. So, if you’ve listened to this podcast for a while, and heard the episodes I did back in Season 1 about orientation, you’ll know that north-to-street is a challenging orientation in the southern hemisphere. This is because we like to put all our main living areas at the rear of the home, with indoor / outdoor connection to perhaps a deck or alfresco area … and lots of glazing to connect the two. And if the home is north-to-street, it means that the sun is moving around the front of the home, and not the rear. This means, especially in a location like Melbourne, that the rear of your home can be cold, in shadow, and not getting the natural light you want into your main living areas. The home also has a heritage overlay, which meant that extensive alteration to the facade wasn’t allowed, and there were two brick chimneys that had to be kept. Lots of homeowners would say at this point - “Forget Passivhaus … we’re putting this entire renovation in the too-hard basket!” The Armadale House sits on a 430m2 block in inner Melbourne, Australia, and is located about 10 km from the CBD. Cameron and his family had lived in two weatherboards home prior, and so their experience was always that leaky sieve experience you may be familiar with if you’ve ever lived in a weatherboard house. You can feel every breeze move through them. They’re hot in summer, cold in winter, and terrible performers thermally. When they moved into the Armadale house, it was the same experience. They could see the sky, sunlight coming in below the door, and the windows would rattle with the slightest breeze. The chimneys meant they could see the sky, and rain would come down them whenever it rained. It’s inspiring to see how this home was renovated 3 years ago, and how this family stayed committed to their desire to create a comfortable, sustainable home. There’s a huge amount of knowledge to gain from this project, and seeing how you can renovate your own Passive House. As I explain in the podcast, the audio recording of my interview with Cameron did not go to plan! So, listen to the episode as I share the highlights from my conversation with Cameron. And then keep scrolling to read the full transcript of our interview. Both will share key tips, strategies and knowledge to help you with your own project. LISTEN TO THE EPISODE NOW In this episode, I ask Cameron ... Can you please tell us about your home, the Armadale Passive House ... who lives there, rough area of it, the block of land it’s situated on, how long have you lived there? It's a weatherboard house and those are notoriously challenging in terms of keeping internal air temperatures stable and being energy efficient homes. What prompted you to create a Passive House in your renovation? What makes it a Passive House? How does it work, what is special about it, what differentiates it from a more traditional house Do you remember at the time if you were worried it would limit you in anyway or any compromises you’d have to make? Where do you see the big differences in living in a home like this (feelings, and tangible cost savings etc)? Your extension is in rammed earth - can you tell us about choosing this material and why you did because it's such a contrast to the weatherboard Can you talk about your window selection, because in Australia, I know we LOVE our windows for all that indoor / outdoor connection! What specific advice would you give to those who are renovating and want to create a Passive House? This episode is brought to you by my online course “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home”. This is a superfast course that will help you get ready for your renovation or building project in the best way possible. In it, I share my step-by-step system to help you save time, money and stress in your project, so you can know what you need to know and create the perfect home for you - simply and with confidence … avoiding the dramas and heartaches. You can join now, get access to a fantastic Facebook community, Live Q & A sessions with me, and all the tools and resources you need to achieve success in your project. Head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/howtogetitright to learn more and join us. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is Passive House necessary in Australia? This is a question many ask, because they believe our climate is too mild to necessitate the Passive House approach. Yet, Clare Parry disagrees. She is a Director and Principal at Grun Consulting, and is a Certified Passive House Certifier and Trainer. Clare was also one of the founding members of the Australian Passive House Association. Its vision is to lead change by educating, promoting, and supporting the delivery of Certified Passive House buildings in Australia. Clare is the Certifier for the Owl Woods Passive House project - so it’ll be her job to provide the tick of approval that everyone else has done their jobs, and the home can actually be certified as a Passive House. Clare however, fulfills many roles when it comes to sustainable design in Australia, and whenever I researched or talked about Passive House - it was Clare Parry’s name that came up. I’m really excited you’re going to meet her through this episode, and hear about her experience with Passive House, and really helping it get traction in Australia. SHOW NOTES: Meet Clare Parry from Grun Consulting. Clare has had a lifelong interest in best practice building design, involving a holistic approach to achieve sustainable measures and provide a better option in the longer term, both for the client & the environment. Her focus is on building performance, and she works extensively with the Passivhaus standard. Her work as a sustainability consultant and mechanical engineer has involved experience as a Certified Passivhaus Designer, Trainer and Building Certifier, LEED AP, Green Star AP, WELL AP, NABERS and CBD Assessor. In 2011 Clare founded the Australian Passive House Association and has been involved as a Director until late 2017. She is one of the first Certified Passivhaus Designers in Australia, and one of only two Passivhaus Certifiers. She is a certified Passivhaus trainer as well and you can often see her speak at national and international conferences. Clare is a Director and Principal at Grün Consulting. Grün specialises in delivering high performance buildings. They deliver all aspects of Environmentally Sustainable Design consulting, specialising in Passive House (Passivhaus) from design through to certification. They are advocates for Passivhaus, for Net Zero, and experts in town planning, multiple rating tools including LEED, Green Star and the Living Building Challenge, and energy ratings including Carbon Neutral, NABERS & CBD. In this episode, I ask Clare ... What made you become interested in Passive House? You've worked for some time  (and continue to work) as a sustainability consultant in a range of accreditation systems like LEED, Greenstar, WELL, etc. How does Passive House sit in relation to this? You founded the Australian Passive House Association (APHA) in 2011. What compelled you to do that? What's the APHA's role? You are performing the role of Building Certifier on the Owl Woods Passive House project. Can you describe what's involved in that? I read an article of yours on Linkedin ... where you spoke about industry talking about the difficulty of getting the consumer engaged in the idea of sustainability. You said "The issue is not actually about engagement. That implies that people are choosing alternatives when the options are on the table, but the truth is they really have no idea what’s possible." And then you spoke about our responsibility to educate - which is what Undercover Architect is all about. How would you like to see homeowners going about really moving the needle on Passive House and its adoption in Australia? What would you tell them to do to feel more confident to pursue this for their projects when opposition might be budget, or it being too hard, etc? As Clare mentioned, the Australian Passive House Association is an incredibly useful resource for you if you’re wanting to embark on the Passive House journey, so check out the show notes for a link to find them. A word of warning though … I’m finding that the more people I speak to about Passive House, I find they started their journey with an interest, and go so passionate about it, they’ve gone onto be certified! Not only professionals but homeowners as well!\ Who knows what learning and opportunity the Passive House journey might open for you hey? Listen to the episode now. This episode is brought to you by my online course “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home”. This is a superfast course that will help you get ready for your renovation or building project in the best way possible. In it, I share my step-by-step system to help you save time, money and stress in your project, so you can know what you need to know and create the perfect home for you - simply and with confidence … avoiding the dramas and heartaches. You can join now, get access to a fantastic Facebook community, Live Q & A sessions with me, and all the tools and resources you need to achieve success in your project. Head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/howtogetitright to learn more and join us. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you build a Passive House? The construction of a Passive House requires specific processes and knowledge. Learn what it takes to build the Owl Woods Passive House Project in my interview with Stuart Lee. SHOW NOTES: In this episode, we meet Stuart Lee of Craftsmen Quality Builders. Stuart is the builder for the Owl Woods Passive House, and if you listened to my interview with David Rhind, the client and owner, you may recall that it was when they met Stuart, that they got interested in making this home a Passive House, and dived into this whole process. Stuart is a fantastic advocate for the building industry, as he really demonstrates what quality building, client collaboration and teamwork looks like. Even if you don’t want to build or renovate a Passive House, I really encourage you to listen to this episode and learn what to look for when choosing your own builder. Stuart provides some great advice to support you in your selection. Introducing Stuart Lee, Craftsmen Quality Builders Stuart is a builder and Qualified Carpenter, and he’s also a Certified PassivHaus Tradesman and Accredited Green Living Builder. Stuart has worked in the building industry for over 15 years and is very passionate about building energy efficient and PassivHaus homes. He feels the best way he can support the environment is to build homes that hug the land rather than sit on it. When Stuart learned of the passivhaus standard - and he talks about this in our interview - he felt compelled to focus his business on implementing the key principles it uses. Stuart and the Craftsmen Quality Builders team love what they do, which in turn infuses the structure with love and laughter. Stuart believe this makes their homes feel very special. In this episode, Stuart tells us what is involved in the construction of a Certified Passive House home. These are the questions Stuart and I discuss in this episode ... Why do you believe homeowners should build a passive house (you have a great rundown on this on your website)? What made you commit to being certified as a Passive House Tradesperson? When we look at home construction, how does a Passive House differ to mainstream home construction ... what are you doing differently and how much harder is it? Tell us about your involvement in the Owl Woods Passive House - because I understand you were the one initially that proposed making it a passive house? Is building a Passive House more expensive? How do you suggest homeowners on a budget build a Passive House? It appears to me that a Passive House actually demands a really high level of attention, detail, care and quality from the builder ... and because it needs to be certified at completion to a performance level (with the blower test etc), this is a really good way of getting certainty, as a homeowner, that your home is getting built the way it should. That you’re getting what you’re paying for. Do you see homeowners feeling this way? How do you generally suggest people work well with their builder to get a good result? And do you have key tips for homeowners planning to build a Passive House? How should they start? What should they ask builders they’re speaking to? Even if you are not building a Passive House, I really recommend listening to this episode, as Stuart helps demonstrate the standard to strive for in your renovation or building project. There’s an energy that comes from a great team working well together in a quality, focussed and committed way, that can bring total joy to your life and home in the long term. I think you’ll really hear that in Stuart’s own passion for what he does, and hopefully it inspires you to keep looking until you find a team to support you in the same way for your home. Listen to the episode now. This episode is brought to you by my online course “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home”. This is a superfast course that will help you get ready for your renovation or building project in the best way possible. In it, I share my step-by-step system to help you save time, money and stress in your project, so you can know what you need to know and create the perfect home for you - simply and with confidence … avoiding the dramas and heartaches. You can join now, get access to a fantastic Facebook community, Live Q & A sessions with me, and all the tools and resources you need to achieve success in your project. Head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/howtogetitright to learn more and join us. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

So you want to build or renovate a Passive House? Your specialist team may need to include a Certified Passive House Consultant to help test and measure your Passive House design. Let me introduce to you Luc Plowman, of Detail Green. Luc is a Passive House Certified Consultant and Certifier. In fact, he’s only one of 2 Passive House certified building certifiers in the country, and there’s only about 50 world-wide. Luc was brought in on the Owl Woods Passive House project as Talina wasn’t certified yet. He assisted with reviewing and auditing the design, running it through the Passive House modelling tool, and providing feedback and advice on what needed to be included and amended in order for the home to reach required benchmarks. SHOW NOTES: Meet Luc Plowman, from Detail Green. Detail Green has a wealth of building design, engineering, construction and sustainability performance experience.  This includes both local and international projects in residential, commercial, industrial and educational buildings across multiple green building standards.   Luc is a Sustainability Engineer. With 15 years experience he has been involved in a wide range of green building and sustainability projects across Australia. He’s a director of Detail Green based in Beechworth, Victoria.   With a background in the commercial building industry and a range of Green Building qualifications Luc provides specialist ESD input to all areas of the built environment.    Luc is both a Certified Passive House Consultant & Building Certifier and one of Australia’s most experienced Passive House professionals. In this episode, I ask Luc ... How do you describe what Passive House is? What is your role on the Owl Woods Passive House Project? Is this how you’re normally involved in projects? You’re a Certified Passive House Consultant ... what does that mean? How did you get involved in this type of work - what is your professional background? what made you choose to become a Certified Consultant? Is a Passive House not really a Passive House if a Certified Passive House Consultant is not involved? As a Certified Consultant, do you find that homeowners come find you because they really want to do this type of home and they’ve first done a lot of investigation and research themselves? Or do you find that there’s an interest, and then still lots of education to do on your part? What misconceptions do you see about Passive House? I know homeowners will say to me “oh my climate is quite mild, I don’t need to be this extreme about my home” ... what would you say to them? Is there anywhere that Passive House is ‘over the top’ as an approach? What key tips do you have for homeowners considering this as an approach for their renovation or new build? Passive House can seem initially like a complex process of data and analysis. However, Luc shows us its fundamental aspects and the opportunity this methodology has to help us predict the performance of our homes - before we build them. Listen to the episode now. This episode is brought to you by my online course “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home”. This is a superfast course that will help you get ready for your renovation or building project in the best way possible. In it, I share my step-by-step system to help you save time, money and stress in your project, so you can know what you need to know and create the perfect home for you - simply and with confidence … avoiding the dramas and heartaches. You can join now, get access to a fantastic Facebook community, Live Q & A sessions with me, and all the tools and resources you need to achieve success in your project. Head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/howtogetitright to learn more and join us. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Talina Edwards, of Talina Edwards Architecture, is the architect on the Owl Woods Passive House project. This project didn’t start out as a Passive House, and Talina didn’t start the project as a Passive House Certified Designer … but that’s what she is now, and that’s what the house is now. I think you’ll learn a lot from hearing how Talina talks about the process of working with a client, understanding their wants, needs and aspirations for their home and her responsibility in bringing that to life … and how she’s worked collaboratively with the client and other team members to deliver this family their forever home. SHOW NOTES: Let me introduce Talina Edwards to you, and Talina Edwards Architecture. Talina Edwards Architecture: elemental design studio is passionate about creating healthy, beautiful, functional, comfortable and sustainable architecture. The practice has a passion for design that improves people’s lives – for residential, community and commercial clients. Talina strongly believes that high quality design of our built environment has many positive impacts for people and the planet. Talina established her Architectural Studio in 2013 after more than a decade of working as a registered architect with Melbourne practices who excelled in sustainable architecture. Talina recently became qualified as a ‘Certified Passive House Designer’, which is an international standard to deliver the healthiest, highest-performing and lowest-energy buildings in the world. The standard is heavily based in building-physics for proven performance. Talina embraces this scientific, rational and practical side of architecture, as well as the more creative and intuitive approach to design. She employs a holistic and collaborative approach that is responsive to the whole picture, whilst including careful consideration of all the small, important details. She is very interested in how the principles of biophilic design can be applied to architectural projects to improve our wellbeing by connecting to nature. Talina recently attended the ‘Living Future Institute’ 2018 symposium and is committed to this ideology, which aims to redirect our future towards a society that is socially just, culturally rich and ecologically restorative.Talina is hugely engaged in her local community, in the architectural community and the sustainable design community as well. She is an active member of several industry organisations, and a huge advocate for her local professional community. Talina loves sharing her love of all things elemental design (green buildings, sustainable architecture, healthy homes and natural living) by writing articles, exhibiting at Smart Living and Building expos, and giving presentations to her community.On the weekends, she loves spending time amongst nature with her partner, children and playful puppy – as Talina knows this is the best way to slow down and re-connect and maintain a sense of wellbeing. In this episode, I ask Talina ... How do you describe Passive House to people who ask? Tell me about what happened when the clients, David and Yvonne, first approached you for this new home ... discussing sustainability measures, design etc ... how did that go? One of the things that’s been interesting about Owl Woods Passive House is that it didn’t start its journey as a Passive House did it? Can you explain more about that? When did Passive House start becoming part of the conversation? Who drove that? What was your aim for the design initially, as the clients briefed you on what they wanted, etc ... and then as it became a Passive House? Talking through the ideas, the pavilion style, designing a home for people who will have older children who'll leave and come back, etc. Since starting this project, you’ve achieved your Passive House design certification - why? David spoke about how they went about the process of finding you, and then have really sought to trust you, and seek your support as they move through the project. It appears you've created a really trusting relationship, and a collaborative one. How do you think that has happened? As an architect, who has come from a sustainable design point of view, to now move into this area, what have been your key learnings about what’s needed to get this right? Do you think you need to be a specific type of architect to tackle this area of design? It seems very technical to an outsider. Have you found any of this limiting for your creativity? I had a client joke with me that seeing homes we’ve designed get finished must be like seeing our children grow up and leave home ... what are you most looking forward to in seeing this home finished? If you’re wondering what it’s like to design a Passive House, or work collaboratively with an architect for your new build or renovation, this episode provides great insight, tips and strategies to get it right. Listen to the episode now. This episode is brought to you by my online course “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home”. This is a superfast course that will help you get ready for your renovation or building project in the best way possible.   In it, I share my step-by-step system to help you save time, money and stress in your project, so you can know what you need to know and create the perfect home for you - simply and with confidence … avoiding the dramas and heartaches. You can join now, get access to a fantastic Facebook community, Live Q & A sessions with me, and all the tools and resources you need to achieve success in your project. Head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/howtogetitright to learn more and join us. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when you decide you want to build your forever family home as a Passive House? This is the story of a homeowner who did just that. I’m really excited to be introducing you to the Owl Woods Passive House Project. SHOW NOTES: The Owl Woods Passive House is a new home being built Victoria. Its design meets the Passive House requirements and will be certified as a Passive House when complete. This home is David and Yvonne’s forever home, and we’re going to hear from David about what their journey has been like as the clients in this project - and the future owners of this home. At the time of recording this, the project was nearing completion, and due to be finished right about now actually!   We’re going to be meeting the whole team over the upcoming episodes, and you’ll get a great insight into this project from various viewpoints. In this episode, David Rhind, the client, tells us what it’s been like to be the client in this project. Everything from how they went about finding their block of land, choosing Talina Edwards as their architect, and then working together on the design. David will share what motivated them to pursue sustainable design in the first place … and then to commit to the Passive House methodology. And you’ll hear some fantastic tips and insights along the way that I know will really help you with planning your own project. Whilst it was under construction, it was included in 2018’s Sustainable Open House Day. As you can imagine, it was a popular site, because many visitors were really keen to see the details of a Passive House whilst it was being built. From the Sustainable House Open Day website …. “After many renovations we’d always wanted to build a house from scratch. High on our priority list was sustainability, for a variety of reasons, but were not quite sure what that could/should entail! Key to us was engaging local firms and, during this search, the idea of a house with good solar orientation was suggested and this soon developed into a full blown Passive House (still with the solar orientation, but now with awesome thermal properties and air tightness) was suggested and it quickly took hold as the ideal way to build our new house – given the climate, rising energy costs and achieving ‘comfortable’ living. When we’ve been living in the house for a year we’ll be able to gauge the impact on running costs, but we’re expecting to be pleasantly surprised.” In this episode, I ask David ... Who this home is designed for The site the home on is being built on ... when did you buy it, what’s it like, did you choose it with specific criteria? When you thought about building a new house, what were your key goals ... what did you want to achieve? What led you to thinking about building a Passive House? How did you start the process ... choosing the right team, getting the knowledge you needed etc Have you found you’ve had to upskill yourself in any way? Terminology, the science of it all, etc? Was there anything you were specifically nervous about in doing this? What are you most looking forward to about living in a Passive House? Do you think it’s forced any compromises for you? (Often homeowners think a Passive House will mean they have to have the home look a certain way, or they can’t open windows, or they’ll just have to deal with being cold or hot at certain times of the year, or they can’t choose the material they like aesthetically because it doesn’t meet requirements). What do you think have been some of your key learnings along the way? Any specific challenges, or wins, or things you wish you’d known before you started … What key tips would you have for homeowners considering building or renovating their home as a Passive House? This episode is a great insight into a homeowner’s personal journey of embarking on their new home project - and how they are bringing their forever home dreams to life. Listen to the episode now. This episode is brought to you by my online course “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home”. This is a superfast course that will help you get ready for your renovation or building project in the best way possible. In it, I share my step-by-step system to help you save time, money and stress in your project, so you can know what you need to know and create the perfect home for you - simply and with confidence … avoiding the dramas and heartaches. You can join now, get access to a fantastic Facebook community, Live Q & A sessions with me, and all the tools and resources you need to achieve success in your project. Head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/howtogetitright to learn more and join us. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is Passive House? Or Passivhaus (as the Germans say!) Passive House offers an opportunity to create a home that is comfortable, improves your health and well-being, and lowers the energy use of your home. This episode is an introduction to what Passive House is. As a building system, it involves a range of measures to have your home performing the way it needs to, to be deemed a Passive House. SHOW NOTES: What’s Passive House? Well, you may be familiar with it when it’s spelt the German way - Passivehaus. Let me say upfront … Passive House is not to be confused with Passive Design or Passive solar design. Passive House is a specific way of designing and building a new or renovated home so it meets certain requirements that lower its energy use and improves the health and wellbeing for its occupants. It creates energy efficient homes. It gives a system to design, test and audit the home’s performance overall. And I actually think it’s going to get some serious traction in Australia as the best way to build or renovate your home. Overseas, particularly in Europe, it’s popular for its ability to create energy efficient, comfortable homes that don’t need significant heating and cooling, even in extreme climates (picture snow up to the gutters!) Here, even though in some areas of Australia - and in the USA for my American listeners - our climates may seem too mild for many to be concerned. However, Passive House offers a huge opportunity to really understand and know before you commit to construction, how your home will feel to live in, and what it will cost to run. And that is what seriously excites me for you as the homeowner, building or renovating your family home. Imagine being able to predict exactly how your house will perform, how comfortable it will be and what it will cost to heat and cool - BEFORE you build it. And then, having a system and auditing process in place so it gets tested during and after construction, and a certificate provided to show it actually performs as promised. That’s what Passive House enables you to do. In this episode, I’m talking with Daniel Kress, a certified Passive House trainer and consultant. In this episode, Daniel and I talk about: What is meant by the term “Passive House” (and do we call it Passive House or Passive Haus or Passivehaus!?) How and why did you get so interested in it and choose to pursue not only building and designing this way, but also becoming a trainer in the certification courses? What are the benefits of creating a Passive House? What are the key components of achieving or creating a Passive House? How do you create one? What do you see people get wrong in what they understand about Passive House? Is it possible to renovate and create a Passive House? Or is this only achievable when building new? Is building a Passive Home more expensive? The certification education you do ... why is it necessary for a homeowner to use a certified Passive House Consultant. What difference does this make? And is the house only a Passive House if it’s designed and/or certified by a Certified Consultant? Listen to the episode now. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I’m going to be sharing with you how to really get yourself ready for your renovation or building project if that’s on the cards for you in 2019. NOW is the time to prepare properly, and so I want to help you get really well set up for a successful project so you can save time, money and stress, and get it right in your future home. Sound good? So, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: In my experience, when homeowners start thinking about building or renovating, this is commonly what they do: they jump online, perhaps set up a Pinterest Board or Houzz Ideabook, and start gathering gorgeous images of kitchens, living rooms, alfresco areas … a lot of aspirational photos of finished projects that look like what they hope they’ll have in their dream home They really do try to nail and define their ‘style’ and put a name on how to describe it … be it Hamptons, or Coastal, or Scandi or something similar They may get a builder around and throw a bunch of ideas and suggestions at them, to try and get an idea of price - which is a bit like asking how long is a piece of string They can speak to friends and neighbours who’ve renovated or built, to see who they used and if they were any good, and what suggestions they might have They might even get a few designers around, and pick their brains for ideas under the guise of seeking fees for their help And I’ve even seen homeowners at this point look at colour schemes, flooring, tiles and Tapware and start collecting samples of things they like Look, all of these things are definitely part of the process, but they’re not the best place to start. In fact, they can be a great way to waste time as you pursue ideas and suggestions that aren’t based in what’s possible for your project and budget - or what potentially suits you the best. And they’re completely lacking any strategy that will streamline your effort, make your project more efficient, or less stressful as well. Homeowners can spend years at this point. Often they’re waiting for the ‘right’ time in their lives … for a pocket of time to become available. Which if you’re like most busy, modern families, that doesn’t really ever happen. Or they’re waiting to have ‘enough money’, which is certainly useful, but if they haven’t actually established their budget, or got some concrete ideas of costs for their desired ideas, it’s a bit of a stab in the dark what ‘enough money’ actually is. I could keep going on about what happens for homeowners in the time before they start their renovation or building projects. Many call it ‘getting ready’ but I feel it’s more like procrastination - or ‘procrasti-planning’ as I call it! And it’s counterproductive because in the searching, the collecting of ideas, the desire to get certainty around what they want to do, what they want to spend, and how they want their home to be, there’s a lot of time wasted. Because they’re often doing it alone, or with well-meaning but poor quality advice from free Facebook groups, or fluffy websites online written by people without a lot of experience or expertise. Sitting up late at night, or scanning their phone on their commute, or at the park with the kids. I think of the deliberation and research that first time mums put into purchasing their first pram or car seat, and yet fly-by-the-seat-of-their-pants for their renovation or building project. I see women taking 12 months to plan a wedding - a one-day event that’s basically a very expensive party - and yet dive into renovating or building with incredible urgency and haste. This may all sound quite harsh and brutal … It basically comes down to this: If you don’t know how to get where you’re going, how can you possibly expect to not get lost? How can you expect to know how to ask the right questions, choose the right people to work with, know how to ask for what you want, be sure you’re getting what you’re paying for, and reach the destination of your finished home unscathed? If you have bottomless pockets and all the time in the world, then winging it is certainly do-able for your renovation or building project. But if you have constraints of time, money and resources, then you may want to be better prepared, better informed, and better equipped for the journey to your finished home. It is possible to have a great experience when you build or renovate your home. You hold the key. You are your future home’s greatest asset. You - what you do, how you choose, what you decide and how you push the progress of your project. It’s within your reach, your power, to be your home’s greatest advocate, and for you to know what you need to know to make your project a success. The fact that you listen to the Undercover Architect podcast tells me that you’re a natural at this … because you understand the importance of being informed and educated for your home’s reno or build to go well. So how can we work together more closely on this … how can you get better prepared, and better informed for your project? Listen to this episode to larn more about “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home”. This is my 6 week online course that is a super-fast way to get you equipped with the tools, knowledge and resources to make your project a success. From understanding how to speak to council, your potential designer and builder, to be able to set your budget and communicate what you want for your future home, to auditing the design and getting all the details resolved, and through to having a stress-free construction process that runs on time and on budget … that’s what “How to Get it Right” will help you do. I’ve got some exciting news to share with you about developments we’ve made in this course to improve it, and also a holiday special you can access so that, if 2019 is your year to renovate or build your family home, you can get yourself sorted and prepared in the best way possible. This is such a great way to get ready for your renovation or building project, and learn a step-by-step system that is proven, tested and I’ve used on my own and client projects for 2 decades now. Plus, you’ll access lots of additional helpful tools and resources to simplify your project, and help you get it right in your future home. As Lisa said "You CANNOT renovate or build without first doing the course with UA!  The mistakes that you will avoid will save you tens of thousands $!!" That’s a sensational return on investment! And when members are asked “Do you think this course has saved you time and stress”, 100% of respondents said yes. If you have any questions about whether it’s a good fit for you and your project, get in touch on hello@undercoverarchitect.com or join now on www.undercoverarchitect.com/howtogetitright FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your Reno Roadmap, my renovation and building course and membership can provide the 1:1 support and advice to save you time, money and stress in your project. How would it feel that, as you navigate the journey of building you new home or renovating your existing one … that you had a professional to check in with, get a second opinion from, and ask for advice at each step of the way. Right from figuring out if you can afford what you want to do, to choosing your designer, getting your floor plan and home design right, making budget savings along the way, selecting your materials and fixtures, and then going through the construction of your project. Someone who you could ask all your questions, and get a response, or get a review of your floor plans, or get help with making decisions? And what if that someone was me, on tap, to help guide and support you at a 1:1 level? Well, it’s possible, and that’s what this episode is all about. WANT TO JOIN YOUR RENO ROADMAP? Head here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/yourrenoroadmap SHOW NOTES: So, what is Your Reno Roadmap? Well, it’s an online course and a membership all in one. It’s really the whole enchilada … it provides education, support, regular advice and guidance for homeowners whilst they navigate the process of building or renovating their family homes. This happens through a few means. I call these the 4 C’s of Your Reno Roadmap. They are: CONSULT COURSE COACHING And COMMUNITY First things first … Let me say upfront first that one thing I’ve observed over the years I’ve been doing this is something I thought was really strange at first. Especially given how much money is being spent on our future homes when we build or renovate. And how long the process can take, how many variables are involved, and that it’s where we’ll be living with our families in the future. What is this strange thing? Well, it is how hesitant homeowners are to seek a second opinion when looking at their renovation or building project. Whether it’s seeking a second opinion on their design, or questioning if what their builder is telling them is true or the only way to do something … there’s this real resistance to involving other professionals and getting assurance that they’re moving on the right path. Now, I’m going to speak a few generalisations here, but this comes from my experience, and perhaps you can relate. Women generally can find it difficult to speak up, and can feel like they’re rocking the boat if they wanting to seek a second opinion elsewhere about their project. Women can also feel that they’ll slow things up, or make relationships difficult, if they look like they’re not trusting what the designer or builder is saying to them. And given the long-term nature of these relationships, they worry that will have a long-lasting impact on how well everyone gets along. And women can also feel - or be made to feel - that they’re being silly for taking so long to gain certainty about their decisions. That choosing and committing to the design, the team, the building process, the finishes and fixtures, should be quite a straight-forward matter and does not require so much deliberation … let alone seeing advice elsewhere to support them in this. And the industry also plays a guilty part in this desire to not seek a second opinion. Designers can be super precious about their work, and either directly or indirectly, and give the impression that a second opinion is a bad idea, disruptive to the process, or that you’re not entitled to seek one. In fact, I’ve personally experienced when a homeowner did seek a second opinion, that her designer told her he didn’t want to work with her anymore. She realised later she’d dodged a bullet by getting out of her working relationship with him at that point, but for her, it felt awkward and confronting at the time to navigate that situation. I know that many members of Your Reno Roadmap keep their membership and my involvement in their projects a secret from their designer and their team. We had this funny situation recently, where a homeowner was asking for help on part of the design of their home. She’s working with an architect who is earlier in their career, and they couldn’t seem to reach a happy solution on this one part of the process. She posted in our Facebook group, and I did a sketch overlay of the area they were struggling with to propose a couple of ideas for it. She posted her thanks and also added ... “… so this might the occasion where I finally admit to our architect that I have been 'seeing someone else on the side' as I'll need to share image this with her so we are on the same page.” I know members have redrawn what I’ve suggested, or presented my ideas as their own feedback … and that is totally fine by me. After all, Undercover Architect is YOUR secret ally … this is about you, having the support, knowledge and advice you need to feel confident and get it right in your projects, and your future family home. The thing is this … I implore you … don’t let anyone talk you out of your right to seek a second opinion on your design, your project, your choices, and how you’re spending your investment. Your home is far too important for you not be sure about what you’re doing. If you were investing $500,000 in the stock exchange, I seriously doubt you’d take the advice of only one person before you decided what to invest in. This is no different. Your Reno Roadmap is your ultimate second opinion, whilst you make one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. Your Reno Roadmap is a 12 month membership containing ... Your onboarding Skype one hour consult with me to lay out your best first steps and get you moving quickly and painlessly on your project journey, whatever stage you’re at - you can use that in the first 3 months of your membership A comprehensive Course that lays out the steps to follow, and provides tools and resources along the way to build your own project portfolio and simplify the renovating or building process 1:1 Coaching from me to answer your questions, review your design, help you with selections, and point out any red flags or mistakes to avoid so you can be saving time, money and stress, and have certainty about your choices and decisions And a Community of like-minded awesome people who are on the same journey, to cheer you on and share their learnings as well AND now you also get bonus access to Manage Your Build! You can extend your membership on a month-by-month basis if you need to. Sometimes life gets in the way of our best-laid plans, and in some locations it can take 2 years or more to get the whole way through our projects. So, if you’re thinking you’d like me in your corner at a 1:1 level for the duration of your renovation or building project, Your Reno Roadmap is where you can access this. Members have described their membership as life-changing, which is really humbling to hear. I think something really amazing happens to your sense of self, your sense of confidence, when you feel empowered to navigate a process you previously thought to be overwhelming and enormous. When you have the knowledge and support you need to do it well, and do it simply, and you can check in with me along the way … it never ceases to amaze me just how incredible the members are and what they’re achieving, how they’re standing up for their homes, their investments, their future, and really driving their projects. It’s such a joy for me to be part of their journey, and to see that transformation happen. I’m super passionate about how Undercover Architect helps homeowners, and I love how Your Reno Roadmap gives me the opportunity to support our gorgeous members in a way that really makes a difference to their projects, their homes, and their experience. If you think Your Reno Roadmap is a good fit for you and your project, I’d love to be able to support you in this way too. If you’d like to find out more about Your Reno Roadmap, head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/yourrenoroadmap/ … and if you have any questions about the course, don’t hesitate to email me on hello@undercoverarchitect.com FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you starting the build of your new home or renovation soon and worried about it not going well? So many homeowners walk blindly into signing contracts, not realising how significantly they obligate themselves ... in time, money and by law. They don't protect themselves or understand what should happen next. To be frank, it's where things begin to go seriously wrong in projects. This, followed by not having an understanding about the sequence of construction, and working with a builder who doesn’t have systems in place, or shows any accountability to timelines and budget, or keeps communication open and regular … well, it’s not long before things go pear-shaped during the build or your new home or renovation. So, in this episode, I’ll be talking about how to avoid that when overseeing construction of your new home or renovation. WANT TO JOIN MANAGE YOUR BUILD? Head here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ SHOW NOTES: Manage Your Build is a self-study, online course to help you simplify the construction of your new home or renovation, and maintain your sanity! Working with me in this course is Duayne Pearce. Long-time listeners of the podcast will be familiar with Duayne … he’s been a guest here in Season 4, and he also co-hosted with me for Season 7. He’s a fantastic guy, a builder with extensive experience in building and renovating family homes, and loves sharing his knowledge to improve your experience as a homeowner, and the building industry overall. Manage Your Build covers the construction phase of your project. From the point of signing your contract with your builder, through seeing your new home or renovation get constructed, to the builder finishing and you being able to move into your finished home! Homeowners focus a lot of attention on that construction phase, and they often mistakenly think it represents the whole process. There are actually 4 stages to any project … regardless of where you’re located, how much you’re spending, and what type of project you’re doing. They are: Before you begin your project Getting your design right Before you build your project Getting your project built Manage Your Build dives into the nitty gritty of Stage 4 - Getting your project built. I see homeowners get really focused on this stage when thinking about their new home or renovation project. They’re thinking about the builder they’ll choose how they’ll find one that’s reliable How long the construction process will take Where they’ll live in the meantime - especially if renovating - and cover that cost whilst paying for construction How they’ll not get ripped off with a poor quality build or a dodgy builder What materials, fixtures and finishes they’ll choose What their finished home will look like And in that process, they leave behind some really essential considerations that can cause massive headaches and budget blowouts on site, and expose them, their project, and their finances to huge risk. And they can be boxed into a corner, with a half-finished home and a builder holding them to ransom. I see homeowners get themselves in a lot of trouble, not knowing who holds responsibility, how legally they might be obliged because of the contract conditions, and leaving it all too late to do anything about the situation. When you’re in the construction process of your new build or renovation, time is of the essence. The whole nature of construction is that it’s a sequence of activities and people that need to occur in a specific order, within specific timeframes. If work gets delayed, if things get done in the wrong order, then you can not only run into cost and time issues … you can lose the opportunity to have things the way you want them in your home. And there are SO MANY moving parts and people … it is a complex process, particularly if yours is a one-off project. Other potential expensive and stressful headaches during construction include: Thinking your builder is also your Project Manager Your builder not having solid cashflow for your project You and your builder not understanding or following the contract A project doesn’t have structure to it … so no weekly meetings, no communication systems and no regular reporting on cashflow and timelines. I’m super passionate about you being who you need to be, and knowing what you need to know, as you build or renovate your home. Confident, in control, able to be proactive, feeling informed and in the driver’s seat for your project. So you can know how to ask for what you want, be sure you’re getting what you’re paying for, and reach that beautiful home you’re dreaming of - saving time, money and stress. If you’d like to find out more about Manage Your Build, head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ … and if you have any questions about the course, don’t hesitate to email me on hello@undercoverarchitect.com FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’re a US resident, and planning a remodel or a new home, you might be worried about ... Being taken advantage of because you don't really know what you're doing, or what you might be missing along the way Wasting money and time on design ideas, products and choices you're not sure will work, or that you'll regret Unknowingly choosing a terrible contractor who, in the end, leaves you with a defective house and thousands of dollars out of pocket What if instead, remodeling or building your family home meant ... Finding a reliable, great quality team of professionals who will support and guide you through the whole process and a contractor you trust, who will keep your project on budget and time Being armed with the tools you need to spot red flags before they turn into massive cost and time overruns, or cause big headaches Moving into a beautiful quality home that feels great, and you feel great in - that truly works for you and your family! What if you could actually know, BEFORE you invest time, money and energy in your project … that you'll get what you're paying for, and reach the home you're dreaming of? In this episode, I’m going to share how this is possible, and so if you’re a USA resident, then this podcast episode is for you. SHOW NOTES: The Welcome Home Course is an online course, created for USA residents who are planning to remodel or build their family home. We launched this course earlier this month (November of 2018). If you’ve been checking it out, the introductory offer we have to enrol ends Nov 30, a few days from now if you’re listening to this live. In this episode, I share how and why the course was created, how it will help you, and what you get when you enrol. The Welcome Home Course is laid out to take you through all 4 stages of your remodel or new build project. These 4 stages are: Before you begin Getting your design right Before you build Getting your project built In each Module, we share the key steps, mistakes to avoid and strategies to use. You’ll hear real-life case studies, recommendations for finding great people, things we wish we’d done differently, and what is really involved in creating a home that’s functional and feels great … and a project journey that’s enjoyable. There’s also a section called Your Location. The United States is a big place, with a huge range of variety in climate and local conditions from State to State. This section of The Welcome Home Course will teach you critical information needed to understand how to design for your locality, weather and conditions. When you know this information, you can design a home that protects and shelters you, and lowers its heating and cooling costs as well. These decisions can be made early, often at no extra cost, and can make a significant difference in the performance, functionality and feel of your home. And so I’ve collated together some key information to help you understand this more for your specific location. In addition, 'The Welcome Home Course' includes a series of downloadable PDF bonus resources I've created and tailored for you. Hundreds of homeowners have used these resources, and loved the guided support as they plan and execute their project. There’s more information about what each of the modules include in videos and bonus resources on www.undercoverarchitect.com/welcomehome Lastly, let me share with you the words of 2 American homeowners who’ve learnt this step-by-step system. Trina was at the very beginning of her process, and planning a new home. She said, "I wanted to learn about creating a great floor plan that works for our family. I needed a push to get started because it feels overwhelming doing it on our own. Also, I hoped to learn what questions to ask to the architect and how to communicate well with the people who are building our house." "This course gives you confidence as you go into your project. It helps you to be better prepared to ask questions to the right professionals and will hopefully save you time, money (and disappointment) in the long run - be that picking the right people, getting the floor plan that works for you, asking the right questions, and being prepared as to the whole process." ... Trina Trina, since learning this system, is now nearing the end of her design process, and working with contractors to finalise her price and start construction. What’s been amazing has been seeing how she’s known how to mitigate risk in her project … and how she’s really taken charge of the process, ensuring she’s making decisions in an informed way. Jea had specific reasons for joining. And these may sound familiar to you … She said, "I am a planner and I take a long time to make decisions. I want to have all of my ducks in a row before I hire an architect so I am not blind-sided by lots of new information and options. I need time to mull things over before I make decisions, and I don't want to hold up the project once it has begun. I also don't want to make quick decisions that I then regret. I like to know all of my options, think about them all, visualize, keep thinking, visualize some more, then decide." "Thank you for sharing your experience; your talents; and your kind, compassionate, patient, and authentic personality. You are making a positive contribution not only to your field but to the online world in general. It's been a great experience." ... Jea When I last heard from Jea she was diving into finding a suitable architect to get her project moving. I wanted to really share some detailed information about The Welcome Home Course because I know that any investment, when it comes to your future home, is super important and has to be worthwhile. My aim with this online course is to save you far more money than its cost, but more importantly to really help you be a confident and empowered collaborator in your project. So you actually know how to ask for what you want, be sure you’re getting what you’re paying for, and end up with the perfect home for you and your family. Previous members have told me that they’ve been asked by design professionals and contractors what part of the industry they’re from, because they’re so well-informed. This shift … in going from thinking you’ll be a target, and have to avoid being taken advantage of … to having the professionals believe you to be a colleague in the industry - what would that do for your confidence? Your experience? And the home you create? That’s what The Welcome Home Course is all about. If you’re listening to this at the time of release, make the most of the limited time introductory offer as it ends in the next couple of days. If not, The Welcome Home Course is still super affordable given how much it will help you save in time, money and stress. When you join, you’ll get access to Module 1 straight away, and weekly for the next 3 weeks after that, another Module will get released to you. Your access to the course doesn’t expire as I want you to be able to learn this whilst getting ready, and then have it to refer back to you as you execute your project. You’ll also get access to future updates as well. So, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/welcomehome to learn more about The Welcome Home Course, see what’s in all the modules, read the Frequently Asked Questions and to enrol now. If you have any questions about whether it’s a good fit for you and your project, get in touch on hello@undercoverarchitect.com FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you want to make low tox choices for your interior finishes and fixtures when renovating or building your family home? Melissa Wittig from Healthy Interiors is a ‘health-focused’ Interior Designer. In this episode, she shares some fantastic knowledge and insight into what you need to know about low tox choices for your home. SHOW NOTES: Melissa has over 15 years industry experience, and her work not only focuses on Interior Design, but also in helping homeowners understand how to make low tox choices that create healthy interiors. And she’ll explain more about what this means in this interview. Melissa’s work and knowledge has been published in various publications including, Sanctuary and House & Garden Magazines. She is also the author of several award recognised design resources including a book called The Smart Living Handbook, which she co-authored with Danielle King - and we’ll be talking more about that book in this episode. So, in this episode, Melissa and I talk about: What does ‘low tox’ mean when it comes to building or renovating your home? Why does this information matter when you’re choosing materials and finishes for your interiors? How do you know a material or product is ‘low tox’? What types of questions should you ask to determine how low tox a finish or product is? Where are the main areas to focus in creating a low tox interior for your home? Melissa shares some fantastic and actionable advice, and also some useful resources and tips, when it comes to creating your low tox home. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to know whether solar power is worthwhile for your new home or renovation? This is part 2 of an interview with Lucy Best. Listen to last week’s episode for Part 1. SHOW NOTES: In the last episode, Lucy and I began our conversation about solar energy and solar systems for your home. Lucy Best is the Community Engagement Lead for the Moreland Energy Foundation Ltd, and they run a programme called Positive Charge. Moreland Energy Foundation Ltd (MEFL) is an independent not-for-profit organisation. They are dedicated to tackling climate change and committed to accelerating the energy transition by empowering communities to take action. They work hard to ensure communities play a meaningful part in this transition and that no one gets left behind. The MEFL are a trusted educator, partner, advisor and service provider. They see their job is to build partnerships that demonstrate what’s possible; to give the right advice; and make sure people have access to the information and technology they need to take action. Their customers include councils, business, schools, community groups and members of the community. In this episode … Part 2 … Lucy continues to share some fantastic knowledge and information and answer some of the most common questions I receive from the UA Community when it comes to solar systems and choosing them for a renovation or new build. Some of the topics Lucy and I discuss about choosing solar power for your home: We talk about what you need to know about where you’ll put the panels on your roof. This is a big question I get … when your roof faces the ‘wrong’ direction, or perhaps doesn’t have a steep pitch, or not a lot of space, many can think that means solar isn’t possible. So, Lucy shares how panels need to be positioned in terms of orientation, and pitch, to be as efficient as possible. And what workarounds are available to you to create a solution for your place, and what to consider when designing from scratch to make your roof work for solar. We also talk about requirements for your roof structure, whether using tile or metal. And we look at what to do if your budget is tight and you can only afford a small system, how to find a reputable installer and the questions to ask them. We talk about new technologies with solar tiles that you use instead of roofing material … and Lucy shares some fantastic resources to help with learning more about solar, and getting support and advice in your decisions. Dive into the episode now. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the big conversation topics that comes up when talking about how to create a sustainable home is solar energy … and whether it’s worthwhile to install a solar system on your home. And so that’s what this episode - and the next - is all about. What you need to know about solar energy, and how to know a solar system will be worthwhile for your renovation or building project. SHOW NOTES: In this episode, I have the great pleasure of talking with Lucy Best, who is the Community Engagement Lead for the Moreland Energy Foundation Ltd, or MEFL. Lucy started with MEFL as a Community Outreach Worker on the Moreland Solar City Project. As part of this role Lucy worked directly with the community in engagement, education and strategy. Lucy manages community engagement and communications for MEFL including the Positive Charge and Our Energy Future programs, which provide advice on renewable energy and energy efficiency products to community members and councils. I found Positive Charge when I was looking for a way I could get some independent and impartial advice on solar power and what you need to know. Positive Charge is a programme of the Moreland Energy Foundation, a not-for-profit, independent organisation committed to tackling climate change. Positive Charge offers advice, regardless of whether or not people request a quote, so you can talk through your ideas and plans whatever stage you are at. Unlike other brokers we only work with suppliers after conducting a thorough procurement process, so you can be confident that we are offering high quality products and services at a good price, through company you can trust. Better still – Positive Charge will be on hand to support you along the way if needed. Lucy regularly delivers workshops and information sessions to range of communities including SMEs, schools, CALD groups, general interest and environmental groups and council staff. She also plans and coordinates all outreach and promotional activity. Lucy is one clever bunny when it comes to helping us be more informed about solar energy .. what we need to know, the questions we need to ask. And she taught me a thing or two about motivation for putting solar on you roof too, and how to think about it generally. Because this was such a meaty interview full of so much great advice and knowledge, I’m releasing it as two parts. So, in Part 1 (this episode), Lucy and I talk about: The components of a solar energy system … what they are, how they work, to physically get power from the sun to the electrical needs of your home How to work out how big a system you’ll need The difference between panels - Lucy actually shares some key tips to assess their power and potential, and what to know about your roof space and power use overall to inform what you choose We talk about the inverter - and from our own personal research for our place, the advice has been that it’s the part of the system where quality really makes a difference - and so Lucy had some great advice about this And we talk about batteries - and when going off grid is worthwhile, and surprises you may not be aware of when it comes to choosing a battery system, and that you may not be as ‘off-grid’ as you think The conversation is packed full of great information, and you might be surprised at how accessible solar is - this is no longer out-there or super expensive technology. It’s more affordable than you think. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many homeowners know they want a lot of glass in their homes to enhance that indoor / outdoor connection, bring light and breezes into their home, and help it feel spacious. But do you know you could be making your home completely unsustainable in the process? That’s what this episode will help you avoid. SHOW NOTES: In this episode, I’m interviewing Tracey Gramlick. Tracey is Executive Director and CEO of the Australian Window Association (or AWA). Tracey Gramlick has a background in engineering, a Masters of Business Administration in Technology Management and over 30 years of expertise in various fenestration products and façade design, technical, production, education, materials and marketing roles prior to her current position as Executive Director and CEO of the Australian Window Association. And what’s the AWA? Well, Tracey will tell us more about that - and please make sure you head to the show notes or blog for this episode as the resources we share there will be hugely useful if you’re renovating or building your home. And for the USA listeners, Tracey talks about the National Fenestration Rating Council - which is your equivalent resource when it comes to glass window and door selection. So listen into the interview for some fantastic tips, and then you can check out your relevant resources using the links in the show notes. Tracey shares some incredible tips, insider knowledge and mistakes to avoid when it comes to choosing glass windows and doors for your home. In knowing how to achieve energy efficiency, find a reputable window manufacturer, and really compare your choices so you know you’re making the right selection for your needs. And, she’s got some specific tips when it comes to selecting glass types and frame types, and also shares her expert opinion on whether double glazing is worth it. These are some of the things Tracey and I discuss: What is the Australian Window Association (AWA) - how long has it been around for, who does it represent, what is its role, how can it help homeowners? What do homeowners need to consider when it comes to selecting windows, and their energy efficiency? (frame type, glass type, climate, window size, manufacturer, mistakes they make in selections) The AWA has several online resources that can help homeowners when choosing windows - a series of pdf guides, plus some online search and rating systems. How can homeowners use these to help with making confident selections? Is double glazing worth it? How does a homeowner work this out and balance budget with energy efficiency? Frame types - aluminium vs timber vs steel vs uPVC vs Fibreglass … what is the best to use - overseas you see uPVC and fibreglass being used more regularly for example, but aluminium and timber seem most prominent here? When you take your time to research your selections carefully, get informed and work with reputable suppliers, the glass windows and doors in your home will not only help let in light and create a lovely feeling of spaciousness and indoor / outdoor connections, they’ll also enhance the performance and comfort of your home - AND how much energy and money it saves you over the long term. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST, CLICK HERE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

So, what is Building Biology? I find many homeowners aren’t aware of this field, and yet it’s been around for a while, and can be a really helpful resource if you’re trying to create a home that supports your health and wellbeing. There is a lot that is do-able in your existing home, new build or renovation, that often doesn’t cost anymore but simply requires some knowledge and desire to put into practice. SHOW NOTES: Narelle McDonald is a certified Building Biologist & Feng Shui Consultant the founder of Healthy Living Spaces, President of the Australian Society of Building Biologists, and advisor for Chemfree Community. Her focus is on environmental health for the home with a special interest in children’s wellbeing. There are many elements in a building that can affect quality of life, physical health and emotional wellbeing. Improving our health in all aspects of our life is important as everything is interrelated. Building Biologists have long been aware of this and consider our homes our third skin because of this connection. Narelle is passionate about providing education and empowerment to those she works with to bring about positive lasting changes. Creating healthy buildings, conscious consumers and bringing balance and harmony. Narelle believes by combining both the science of Building Biology and the ancient art of Feng Shui this holistic approach enables us to create amazing spaces to flourish in. Some of the topics we discuss are: What Building Biology is. Some key mistakes homeowners make when renovating or building that can impact their own health and the quality of their home’s environment. How to work with a Building Biologist and find one that’s reputable. What are the simple ways to improve your home’s ability to support your health, whether building or renovating - that anyone can achieve. Some useful resources to learn more about Building Biology for your home. I often find homeowners can get super scared about this information … EMFs (or Electro Magnetic Fields), VOCs (or Volatile Organic Compounds), toxic substances etc. Narelle has some fantastic knowledge to share on how you, as an informed homeowner, can deal with this and educate yourself. This is about you being empowered as you create your sustainable home. Listen to Narelle’s actionable advice now. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you design your home to suit its climate, you can dramatically impact its long term energy costs. Not only this - achieving a specific level of energy efficiency is actually legislated in a lot of locations, and is required in order to achieve your necessary approvals. So, I’m bringing on an Energy Efficiency Consultant to share some fantastic information with us on this topic. SHOW NOTES: Tori Walker is the Principal Energy Rater at BERA, a company which seeks to “Provide Excellence in Building Energy Ratings and Advice”. She has been involved in the design and renovation of homes for over a decade, and has worked with Building Designers, Architects, Builders and Energy Assessors both privately and professionally during this time. BERA has completed the necessary qualifications and registrations to rate homes in all States of Australia. It’s worth understanding that the systems and requirements can vary across locations, and you need to work with someone certified for your region. For the overseas listeners, I still recommend you stay tuned in, as I think that Tori’s insight and suggestions on what makes an energy efficient home will be helpful for your location. Some of the topics we discuss are: What an energy efficient home is. Why is it important to know about the climate of where you’re building or renovating. The National Construction Code requires Australian homes to achieve a 6 star energy rating … what does that actually mean? What’s is the NatHERS assessment tool used to determine the star rating, and how does it get used. How hard is it to exceed the standard requirement of 6 stars, and how much is this impacted by where you are located? What big mistakes Tori sees homeowners make, and also her big tips to get a great outcome for your energy efficient home and its assessment. This actual step of assessing your energy efficiency can be something you are quite distanced from as a homeowner. It may be that it doesn’t occur until you’re lodging your Building Approval with your Building Certifier, and they simply include it as part of their process. You see it on their fee proposal as a fee, and you receive an invoice for it - but you don’t really understand what happens, and what it can mean for your project, your budget, and the long term feel and performance of your home. It is great, if an energy efficient home is your goal, to work with a designer and / or builder who is experienced at doing this, and to also work with an experienced energy efficiency consultant who can help you measure your home’s performance well, and make useful suggestions to improve it. Tori has provided some great tips in this interview. Her business, BERA, services all of Australia. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let’s dive into some super simple, impactful wins you can put into action in your project to create your Sustainable Home. These are the types of tips that, if you know them upfront, you can create a design that incorporates them and have it not cost anymore. Now, I have a few tips of my own, and I actually found a great list as well put together by the Department of Public Housing Queensland, called “Ten Tips for Smart and Sustainable Housing” which provides a great framework. So, this episode will be a combination of this information. And in future episodes, we’ll dive into some of these areas in much more detail as well. These 12 tips can be a great guide for where to start when considering how to design a sustainable home. They are: Know how the sun moves and design your home to respond to it. Keep it cool in Summer with shading, and warm in Winter by letting the sun’s warmth inside. Lower your home’s energy use overall through the selections you make and how you design your home to maintain its comfortable indoor temperature. Conserve water in how you select your tapware and appliances, in where you source your water from, and what you do with your wastewater Heat and Cool naturally through how you manage the warmth of the sun, and maximising natural ventilation in your home Heat your water efficiently, in what hot water system and power supply you choose and in how you arrange your wet areas that need the hot water Consider aging in place, the ages of all people in your place and how you design a home to support you at all ages and points in your lifestyle, so your home works over the long term Choose finishes for your flooring that are safe, enhance accessibility and design your home to minimise trip hazards, slips and falls. Address the street and make it clear, safe and secure how visitors are to enter your home so your home’s design enhances its own security, and the security of the street Design for natural surveillance, both over the street and public areas, and into play and garden spaces around your home. This will improve your comfort in the home, its functionality, and its safety and security overall. Reduce your home’s need for maintenance by choosing durable and long-lasting materials and products. This will create a relaxing home that stands the test of time and is manageable financially over the long term. Make selections for your interiors that consider the indoor air quality, and assess your product and material choices for their low tox nature. And also look at how natural ventilation can improve the quality of your indoor air environment given how much time we spend indoors. Design indoor / outdoor connections that promote your connection to natural light and the natural environment, and where your climate supports it, create covered outdoor areas you can use to enhance your lifestyle in your home. These spaces will also cool your home by shading it as well. When you start here, the choice of creating a sustainable home can usually be done on any budget, because it’s prioritised and embedded into the design process upfront. A lot of these tips involve having knowledge and resources to make alternative selections that are more environmentally friendly, more efficient, or healthier for you - and I’ve found that in most cases, they come at no extra cost. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Does designing a sustainable home really matter? Can we make that much of a difference with one home renovation or new build? The title of this episode is: terminology, the sustainability minefield, and why should we care? SHOW NOTES: Seriously, when it comes to building or renovating a sustainable home, it gets a whole new level of terminology. I sometimes feel that all this terminology does more to confuse us than help us. As soon as we feel we’ve got a handle on one part of the conversation, someone comes along with another criteria or term for sustainable design, and it unravels our understanding and confidence. I actually think confusion is one of the biggest barriers in homeowners creating sustainable homes, and it’s one of the reasons I’m calling this Season “A Simple Guide to a Sustainable Home”. I will be aiming to keep the information we share simple to understand, and simple to execute as well. This is about giving you the ability to choose in a more informed way - and put into action what you learn. Many homeowners tell me … when it all gets to that hard, overwhelming, and frustrating point … does it REALLY matter? They ask if it’s worth all the effort it seems to be taking. And I can really understand that it’s hard sometimes Not every designer is passionate about creating sustainable homes that make the most of your site and its environment. And so, if you as the homeowner, feel you’re having to convince your designer - who’s supposed to be the expert - as to why this is so essential to you, that can get exhausting. One of the recent Australian members of my “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home” course hit this issue with her home. She was planning an extension to her existing home, which sat on a corner. One street was on the western side or the home, and the other was on the northern side of the home. So, the orientation of the house was less-than-idea, as she was extending new living spaces to the southern side of the home - opening out to a south-facing garden. On the eastern side was another tall home, overshadowing theirs.   She’d been listening to Undercover Architect for a while, and then had participated in the “How to Get it Right” course - where, amongst other things, I talk a lot about orientation, and designing for the movement of the sun. She knew the design her designers had done wasn’t working to access northern light into the home that well … and she literally felt worn because she said she’d pushed and tried so hard to achieve it in the design, but didn’t think it was going to happen. In fact, when she asked her architect how she was going to keep her south-facing home warm in Winter (because it didn’t seem to be capturing a lot of northern light), his response was “a Heater”. And so now she was feeling defeated, and also nervous about committing to the design because of what she’d learnt. Not all designers are trained in the importance of designing for orientation, or targetting a sustainable home design. There are designers who’ll simply arrange rooms based on their connection with each other, and the outdoors, and how they fit on the site overall and meet local planning and building codes. So, when you do become educated as a homeowner about how important this is, then it’s really key to find a like-minded designer you won’t have to battle … or failing that … have more information to battle them with so they can realise how important it is. So, I thought it would be best to kick off this season in a way that helps you understand why this information matters: Why it even matters to try and create a sustainably designed home in whatever way you’re capable of. Every little step towards positive change counts, and that our homes have a huge capacity to create positive change for us and the environment overall - and it doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing conversation. Remember, incremental change is a great way to achieve huge momentum and shifts overall. So, here are some statistics and facts to illustrate the impact of our homes … on us and the environment … both as we occupy them, and during the construction of them as well. Sometimes these types of statistics sound overwhelming, and far too complex to make any inroads on – especially if it’s just you, and your family and your home. It can feel like a drop in the ocean. As with any journey however, the first step you take can have a radical impact on where you end up. This is the same for home building and renovating too. The thing that is most exciting when it comes to building and renovating is that when you make the first step in your journey in an informed and strategic way, it doesn’t cost you anymore. It actually can save you money overall – both in the creation and the long term use of your home. And what’s even more exciting is that the things that make your home less toxic, and less taxing on the environment, are the very things that also make it a great design overall. Tune into the episode to learn more. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re kicking off a brand new season. We’re up to Season 8 and this season is called “A Simple Guide to a Sustainable Home”. In it, we’ll be diving into what a sustainable home is how you can achieve sustainability on any budget know-how you need to navigate the minefield of sustainability, and what to consider and target when you’re renovating or building if a sustainable home is something you’re seeking to create. SHOW NOTES: Sustainability and Sustainable design is a BIG topic. It’s a complex topic too … all the definitions, considerations, building science, technology and details … not to mention the greenwashing you need to avoid as well. And so, I’m calling this season “A Simple Guide to a Sustainable Home”. And that’s what I’m aiming to do - keep things simple. This is not only for the greenies and environmentalists in the Undercover Architect audience - this is great knowledge for everyone to access. Because what you’ll find is that we can save the planet whilst also saving ourselves money, and creating a feel-good home. So whatever of those is your motivation … money, feeling, or planet … learning about sustainability is key in making that happen. So, first things first - how do we define what a Sustainable Home is? Let’s keep it simple. For me, a sustainable home is one that: Is designed to support and improve the lifestyle of those that occupy it, in how the home functions and feels Helps maintain and improve its occupants physical well-being and health Minimises or eliminates its impact on the planet, in its use of resources and production of waste And lastly, this can even extend to giving back … in that triple pronged approach … improving the lives in and beyond the home, saving and even making money, and giving back to the environment overall. Let me tell you some of the topics we’ll be discussing this season … I’ve actually decided to break this season into 2 parts because it is such a big topic, because that will give us the chance to dive into many of the areas I’ve received requests for. So, in Part 1 of Season 8, we’ll be diving into: Why this information matters - and how we can underestimate the potential of building and renovating in a sustainable way, even with the smallest changes I’m going to give you some super simple and impactful ways you can make a difference in any project We’ll be talking to experts about energy rating systems, double glazing, thermal mass, solar power, building biology and other key areas that are hot topics in sustainable design We’ll be looking at how to make material choices for sustainability and low tox environments, the criteria you can use, the kinds of questions to ask and what to focus on when making your selections AND I’ll also be bringing some project examples to you, and speaking to their owners, and the professional teams that created them - to get some unique and personal insight into specific challenges and considerations when designing, building and renovating in this way Sound good? Awesome … so stay tuned for this season … I’m really excited to be travelling on this journey with you, and know we’ll all be learning loads of useful tips, strategies and knowledge in A Simple Guide to a Sustainable Home. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to learn about underfloor heating? This is a topic of much interest in the UA Community. Previously seen as a luxury item only used in high end homes, in recent years it’s become much more prevalent.   There’s still lots of confusion and misconceptions about how it works, where it can be installed and how to get the most from it – whether you’re building or renovating.   SHOW NOTES FOR THIS EPISODE:  In this episode, I’m bringing in an expert … Luke Chant, from Hotwire, who has 15 years industry experience, to help shed some light on how to get it right when it comes to underfloor heating. Luke and I met through a business networking group we’re part of. This is not sponsored content … it’s simply from talking with Luke, and seeing the reputation Hotwire has in the industry, and how many other brands trust them, that made me want to bring him to the UA Community – because I knew how helpful his knowledge would be for your projects.  As I said, Luke has 15 years industry experience in this area. His company, Hotwire, supplies the various components and gear to installers for underfloor heating, plus a range of other items you may want to check out. Hotwire is based in Melbourne, and they have installers throughout Australia that specify and use their products.  Hotwire has been featured on, The Block, House Rules, Reno Rumble and The Home Team. Hotwire is also the recommended floor heating (and/or) heated towel rail supplier for some of the biggest tile and electrical suppliers in the industry.   I asked Luke some of the most common questions I receive about underfloor heating … the different types, what type of floors you can put it under, how much it costs to install and run, retrofitting it to an existing home, and how to find a trustworthy supplier. He gives us loads of info on all of these questions – plus lots more.   So, let’s dive straight in!  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How can home garden design be inspired by award-winning and large-scale public projects?  Whatever the size of your home garden, there are key tips you can take away from these amazing examples of landscape and building design – The High Line in New York, and The Spheres in Seattle.  SHOW NOTES FOR THIS EPISODE:  Now before I get stuck into today’s podcast, I wanted to quickly mention that, if you’re listening to this on the day of release – the 7th of August – then this is the last day you can join “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home”.   This is my 6 week online course that gets you ready for your renovation or building project.   It’s the last live round I’m running for 2018 … so don’t miss the chance to get guidance for your project, get your questions answered, and kick off your project in the best possible way.   Even if you’re still working with a designer, now is the time to be sure you’re getting your design right.   So, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/getitirightnow to join now, and not miss out.   In this episode, I’m heading back to the USA, and sharing 2 incredible projects where gardens and landscape were designed in an innovative way.   I think they’ll help you with ideas for your home, whether you’re renovating or building, and whatever the size of your project.   These projects are The High Line in New York, and The Spheres (or Amazon Spheres) in Seattle.  The High Line is an urban park, sitting 30 feet, or 10 metres in the air. It’s a repurposed rail-line, and it has a fascinating history. It’s 1.45 miles or 2.33km long, and has been opening since 2009, as new sections are completed.  In the podcast, I share 2 key ideas from the High Line that can inspire your home garden design. These are:  #1 Remembering history (of your home, or the area it is situated in) and how that memory can enrich the quality of your home design  #2 Looking at the small things, and how they can create intimacy and a sense of relaxation in your home garden design (and the home itself).  You can see photographs and more information about the High Line in this blog I wrote here >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/the-high-line-new-york  The Spheres are glass domed structures built by Amazon to provide a place for its employees where they can be directly connected to nature, within an urban location (the CBD of Seattle). They were built between 2013 and 2018, and house over 40,000 plants, as well as cafes, meeting rooms, and break-out spaces for employees to meet, sit, work and enjoy.  There are lots of ideas here to inspire your home garden design, and I talk about those, as well as 2 in particular:  #1 The impact of volume  #2 The impact of natural light.  You can see photographs and more information about The Spheres in this blog I wrote here >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/the-spheres-amazon-seattle  There’s loads more in this episode of the podcast to help you with your home garden design – no matter its size. So, let’s dive in …  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Learn how to avoid 3 expensive mistakes when planning your renovation or new build … and ultimately how to avoid disaster and heartache in your project.   So many homeowners make avoidable mistakes when embarking on their project, so I’ll be taking you through these specific ones I see.  And I’ll also be sharing how we can work together in a really affordable way to simplify your project journey, and help you achieve a great outcome in your future family home.   SHOW NOTES FOR THIS EPISODE:  Before I start today’s podcast, if you’re listening to this between July 31st and August 7th, 2018, it’s really exciting, because right now you can join me in my 6 week online course “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home”.  Hundreds of homeowners have taken this course, and enjoyed how it’s helped them get ready for their renovation or building project.   Listen to the episode to learn more about “How to Get it Right” and how it could help you plan your future family home, and have a simpler, stress-free and successful project throughout this podcast. Or head now to www.undercoverarchitect.com/getitrightnow  Now, let’s talk about HOW TO AVOID 3 EXPENSIVE MISTAKES WHEN PLANNING YOUR RENOVATION OR NEW BUILD. These are mistakes I see homeowners commonly make that can cause big budget overruns, and unnecessary expenses in their projects.  These mistakes are:  #1 is the DIVE IN mistake  #2 is the MAKE YOURSELF A TARGET mistake  #3 is the SAVING TO SPEND mistake  Listen to the episode now to learn more about these mistakes, how to avoid them and key tips to get it right …  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! In this episode, I’m sharing some exciting news with you – especially if you’re a USA-based member of the UA Community - and I’ll also be highlighting some of my learnings and experiences from my recent trip to the USA, and how these ideas can be translated into your home.  SHOW NOTES FOR THIS EPISODE:  Eric Reinholdt of 30X40 Design Workshop and I have created a new online course together. It’s called “The Welcome Home Course” and it will teach you how to confidently remodel or build your future family home – and get it right.   Together, we have over 40 years industry experience in residential design, remodeling and building. In ‘The Welcome Home Course’, we’re diving into what you need to know to successfully design, remodel or build your home, and how to avoid the expensive mistakes, heartache and drama along the way.   There’ll also be other industry experts to support you in your learning, and give local insights for your region, climate and specific challenges. I’ve been to the USA a few times now, and it never ceases to amaze me how big it is, and the diversity of environment and natural conditions from state to state … and so this course is crafted to really guide and help you wherever you’re located in the USA.  This course is specifically for USA homeowners. However, if you’re in the USA design, building industry and want more insight into residential home remodeling or building, this will also be awesome for you – as in it, we take you through the step-by-step process from start to finish of a remodel or new build project.  We seriously can’t wait to bring The Welcome Home Course to you. Having worked with hundreds of Australian homeowners in this way (and already a few Americans), I personally know how great it is in empowering you for your remodel or new build, so you can enjoy the process and successfully create that fantastic home you’re dreaming of.   In this episode, I’ll be talking about a project I got to learn about, which is actually an incredible restaurant in Barcelona, called Enigma.  It may sound strange to talk about a restaurant, and your home, but stick with me here, because I feel there’s always things to learn about our home design when we look at how other project types are working in the built environment.  So, when I was in New York, I attended an event at the HG Stones Showroom. HG Stones is a stone supplier that does a huge range of natural and engineered stones, and they’re located in New York City.   At this event, Pau Llimona, a Spanish architect, talked about the design of a project called “Enigma”. This is a restaurant in Barcelona, where a maximum of 24 diners per evening are taken on a journey that melds food, theatre and the materiality and design of the spaces.  So, what does this have to do with your home? Well, I’ve got 5 things I’d love you to think about, that are inspired by this project. These 5 things are:  experience  materials  lighting  personalisation  and team  Listen to the episode now to learn more …  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Despina Priala of Priala Legal, provides fantastic tips and insight into building and renovating contracts. I think you’ll find it super helpful.  PLEASE NOTE: The information contained in the interview does not constitute legal advice and anyone reading or listening is strongly recommended to seek independent legal advice concerning their contract/transaction.  SHOW NOTES FOR THIS EPISODE:  Despina Priala has practiced in property and commercial law on the Gold Coast for over 25 years, and has substantial experience in this area with career highlights including her appointment as in-house counsel for Sunland Group (a prestigious Australian property development business).   Despina established Priala Legal in 2007 to provide specialised boutique legal services to developers and other property players within the South East Queensland market.  Despina has some fantastic tips to share with you, and help you avoid some of the mistakes that homeowners make when it comes to the building or renovation contract.    These mistakes can create huge headaches, budget blowouts, and even more significant issues such as unfinished projects.   Despina talks about the things to know before you sign a contract, some specific terminology to be aware of, and what to look for in your contract - and how you need to work with your builder according to your contract - to get the best results for your project and manage your risk overall.  Despina is QLD based and talks in this episode a lot about Qld legislation.   However, if you don’t live in Qld, DON’T TUNE OUT. Listen to the terminology, the mechanisms, and then use it to ask your builder, your lawyer. Apply the same strategies.   This will be around things like:  + your deposit  + what paperwork the builder must give you as part of signing the contract  + if you have a cooling off period, how long it is, and what waives it  This interview was recorded over Skype so the sound may not be what you’re used to from the UA podcast.   However, it’s so worth a careful listen, as Despina gives some great insight into what you need to consider for your project’s contract. This is super useful information for anyone planning to build or renovate.  Listen to the episode now to learn more …  PODCAST PARTNER: QUOTESPEC  This season’s podcast partner is QuoteSpec. QuoteSpec is a cloud-based app that enables builders and tradespeople to create great-looking, professional, easy to read, and comprehensive quotes for reno and building projects, in a simple and super fast way.   Ask your builder or tradesperson "do you use QuoteSpec?" and if they don't, send them here to find out more about it ... www.quotespec.com.au/undercoverarchitect   Want to make your construction process simpler – and you more sane and confident?  MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ONLINE PROGRAM: MANAGE YOUR BUILD  Manage Your Build is my online program that will give you key knowledge, tools, cheatsheets and industry insider checklists and tips, plus strategies to save your sanity and budget as well.   This online program can support you, help you avoid expensive mistakes and drama, and put you in the driver's seat, feeling confident during the construction of your new home or renovation.  Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to see more about what's inside the program, and how it can save you stress and money as you navigate the construction of your reno or new home.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to make your construction process simpler – and you more sane and confident?  Manage Your Build is my online program that will give you key knowledge, tools, cheatsheets and industry insider checklists and tips, plus strategies to save your sanity and budget as well.   This online program can support you, help you avoid expensive mistakes and drama, and put you in the driver's seat, feeling confident during the construction of your new home or renovation.  Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to see more about what's inside the program, and how it can save you stress and money as you navigate the construction of your reno or new home.  SHOW NOTES FOR THIS EPISODE:  In this episode, we talk about the Practical Completion Stage.   This stage represents the completion of your project, and it's also a contractual point which then triggers a series of other activities and processes required to complete your project, get it signed off with the authorities and deem it fit for you to move back into.   And, because it's a contractual step and process, you, as the homeowner, really need to understand your rights, responsibilities and obligations.   We discuss where your project should be at by now, the things to be aware of as your builder gets ready to leave site and what to expect from your builder in their communication and planning.   Listen to the episode now to learn more …  PODCAST PARTNER: QUOTESPEC  This season’s podcast partner is QuoteSpec. QuoteSpec is a cloud-based app that enables builders and tradespeople to create great-looking, professional, easy to read, and comprehensive quotes for reno and building projects, in a simple and super fast way.   Ask your builder or tradesperson "do you use QuoteSpec?" and if they don't, send them here to find out more about it ... www.quotespec.com.au/undercoverarchitect   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to make your construction process simpler – and you more sane and confident?  Manage Your Build is my online program that will give you key knowledge, tools, cheatsheets and industry insider checklists and tips, plus strategies to save your sanity and budget as well.   This online program can support you, help you avoid expensive mistakes and drama, and put you in the driver's seat, feeling confident during the construction of your new home or renovation.  Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to see more about what's inside the program, and how it can save you stress and money as you navigate the construction of your reno or new home.  SHOW NOTES FOR THIS EPISODE:  In this episode, we talk about the Fixit or Interior Fitout Stage.   This, for many homeowners, is the seriously fun part. It's when the interior finishes, fixtures and fittings start to go into your home, and site is a hive of activity getting all this work done.   You can really see all those choices and decisions taking shape as your home gets decked out internally.   It's also where all the choices, decisions and steps get tested, as the structure of the home ultimately informs what the finished surface looks and feels like.   Duayne and I discuss what to look for in this stage, mistakes to avoid, and what to expect from your builder in their communication and planning.   Listen to the episode now to learn more …  PODCAST PARTNER: QUOTESPEC  This season’s podcast partner is QuoteSpec. QuoteSpec is a cloud-based app that enables builders and tradespeople to create great-looking, professional, easy to read, and comprehensive quotes for reno and building projects, in a simple and super fast way.   Ask your builder or tradesperson "do you use QuoteSpec?" and if they don't, send them here to find out more about it ... www.quotespec.com.au/undercoverarchitect   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to make your construction process simpler – and you more sane and confident?  Manage Your Build is my online program that will give you key knowledge, tools, cheatsheets and industry insider checklists and tips, plus strategies to save your sanity and budget as well.   This online program can support you, help you avoid expensive mistakes and drama, and put you in the driver's seat, feeling confident during the construction of your new home or renovation.  Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to see more about what's inside the program, and how it can save you stress and money as you navigate the construction of your reno or new home.  SHOW NOTES FOR THIS EPISODE:  In this episode, we talk about part 2 of the Lockup or Enclosed Stage.   This continues on from the last episode, and we keep talking about the steps involved in making your home water-tight as we wrap up the exterior of the home.  There's a lot still left to do in this stage, and it can be tricky to navigate, and to be clear about what's included, and when your bank is willing to make payments in order to keep construction rolling smoothly.   Duayne and I talk about this, and what to expect from your builder in their communication and planning.   Listen to the episode now to learn more …  PODCAST PARTNER: QUOTESPEC  This season’s podcast partner is QuoteSpec. QuoteSpec is a cloud-based app that enables builders and tradespeople to create great-looking, professional, easy to read, and comprehensive quotes for reno and building projects, in a simple and super fast way.   Ask your builder or tradesperson "do you use QuoteSpec?" and if they don't, send them here to find out more about it ... www.quotespec.com.au/undercoverarchitect   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to make your construction process simpler – and you more sane and confident?  Manage Your Build is my online program that will give you key knowledge, tools, cheatsheets and industry insider checklists and tips, plus strategies to save your sanity and budget as well.   This online program can support you, help you avoid expensive mistakes and drama, and put you in the driver's seat, feeling confident during the construction of your new home or renovation.  Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to see more about what's inside the program, and how it can save you stress and money as you navigate the construction of your reno or new home.  SHOW NOTES FOR THIS EPISODE:  In this episode, we talk about the next stage of construction, which is the Lockup or Enclosed Stage.   This is where your home gets made water-tight ... in fact all construction is generally racing to this point so that work can occur undercover and your home can be protected from the elements.  And this episode is part 1 of this stage.  This stage can involve many steps and many tradepeople. There's also opportunities to save money if it's run well. Duayne and I talk through these steps and strategies, and what to expect from your builder in their communication and planning.   Listen to the episode now to learn more …  PODCAST PARTNER: QUOTESPEC  This season’s podcast partner is QuoteSpec. QuoteSpec is a cloud-based app that enables builders and tradespeople to create great-looking, professional, easy to read, and comprehensive quotes for reno and building projects, in a simple and super fast way.   Ask your builder or tradesperson "do you use QuoteSpec?" and if they don't, send them here to find out more about it ... www.quotespec.com.au/undercoverarchitect   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to make your construction process simpler – and you more sane and confident?  Manage Your Build is my online program that will give you key knowledge, tools, cheatsheets and industry insider checklists and tips, plus strategies to save your sanity and budget as well.   This online program can support you, help you avoid expensive mistakes and drama, and put you in the driver's seat, feeling confident during the construction of your new home or renovation.  Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to see more about what's inside the program, and how it can save you stress and money as you navigate the construction of your reno or new home.  SHOW NOTES FOR THIS EPISODE:  In this episode, we talk about the next stage of construction, which is the Frame Stage.   This is where the skeleton of your home gets built ... the frames of the walls, any upper floors, and your roof frame. And there are a load of decisions you need to make before all of this work gets wrapped up inside your walls, so the finished home works well.  Knowing what you need to get done in this stage, plus how to check this stage before your project moves on, will significantly save drama down the track.   If you don’t check this stage thoroughly, or be ready with all your selections of fixtures and finishes, you can lose the opportunity to change your mind later.   Any items that need to be hung on your walls (from toilet roll holders to televisions) need to be thought about before the Frame Stage is complete.   Duayne and I talk about some great steps you can take to be sure, and what to expect from your builder in their communication and planning.   Listen to the episode now to learn more …  PODCAST PARTNER: QUOTESPEC  This season’s podcast partner is QuoteSpec. QuoteSpec is a cloud-based app that enables builders and tradespeople to create great-looking, professional, easy to read, and comprehensive quotes for reno and building projects, in a simple and super fast way.   Ask your builder or tradesperson "do you use QuoteSpec?" and if they don't, send them here to find out more about it ... www.quotespec.com.au/undercoverarchitect   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to make your construction process simpler – and you more sane and confident?  Manage Your Build is my online program that will give you key knowledge, tools, cheatsheets and industry insider checklists and tips, plus strategies to save your sanity and budget as well.   This online program can support you, help you avoid expensive mistakes and drama, and put you in the driver's seat, feeling confident during the construction of your new home or renovation.  Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to see more about what's inside the program, and how it can save you stress and money as you navigate the construction of your reno or new home.  SHOW NOTES FOR THIS EPISODE:  In this episode, we talk about the next stage of construction. This is the Slab or Base Stage. This is where the platform or floor of your home gets built.  I see homeowners struggle with understanding that, at this point, many choices about the finish and functionality of your home should be already decided upon, because it feels SO early in the process.   Yet the slab going down can lock you into certain things in your finished home. And prevent you from having the option to add or change things down the track.   Duayne and I talk about these things, and also the specific activities in this stage, and what to expect from your builder in their communication and planning.   Listen to the episode now to learn more.  PODCAST PARTNER: QUOTESPEC  This season’s podcast partner is QuoteSpec. QuoteSpec is a cloud-based app that enables builders and tradespeople to create great-looking, professional, easy to read, and comprehensive quotes for reno and building projects, in a simple and super fast way.   Ask your builder or tradesperson "do you use QuoteSpec?" and if they don't, send them here to find out more about it ... www.quotespec.com.au/undercoverarchitect   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to make your construction process simpler – and you more sane and confident?  Manage Your Build is my online program that will give you key knowledge, tools, cheatsheets and industry insider checklists and tips, plus strategies to save your sanity and budget as well.   This online program can support you, help you avoid expensive mistakes and drama, and put you in the driver's seat, feeling confident during the construction of your new home or renovation.  Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to see more about what's inside the program, and how it can save you stress and money as you navigate the construction of your reno or new home.  SHOW NOTES FOR THIS EPISODE:  What happens during demolition and site preparation?  “Demolition and Site Preparation” is an important stage in construction, and often the first real activity you see on your building site.   In this episode, we talk about the next stage of construction. This is the Demolition and Site Preparation stage. This is where you'll be getting your site and home ready for the new construction to commence.  You may be building new or renovating, and so this stage can involve full or partial demolition. Duayne and I talk about the specific activities in this stage, and what to expect from your builder in their communication and planning.   Full demolition can be done very quickly in most cases, and will often be outsourced to a separate contractor by your builder.  Partial demolition can take longer and be far more labour-intensive (and higher in cost as a result). However, if your home needs to have selective areas demolished in order to retain specific parts of it, and ready it for the future construction work, then this can be careful, time-consuming work.   Site preparation can include earthworks and construction work to prepare your site and project for the next stage.   There’s a lot to consider at this point, so that your project is set up to run smoothly, and you deal with unsafe materials such as asbestos. Listen to the episode now …  PODCAST PARTNER: QUOTESPEC  This season’s podcast partner is QuoteSpec. QuoteSpec is a cloud-based app that enables builders and tradespeople to create great-looking, professional, easy to read, and comprehensive quotes for reno and building projects, in a simple and super fast way.   Ask your builder or tradesperson "do you use QuoteSpec?" and if they don't, send them here to find out more about it ... www.quotespec.com.au/undercoverarchitect   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to make your construction process simpler – and you more sane and confident?  Manage Your Build is my online program that will give you key knowledge, tools, cheatsheets and industry insider checklists and tips, plus strategies to save your sanity and budget as well.   This online program can support you, help you avoid expensive mistakes and drama, and put you in the driver's seat, feeling confident during the construction of your new home or renovation.  Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to see more about what's inside the program, and how it can save you stress and money as you navigate the construction of your reno or new home.  SHOW NOTES FOR THIS EPISODE:  In this episode, we talk about the first stage of any project - paying the deposit. This is where you'll be signing your contract, and making your first payment to lock in your builder, and get the construction process going.  There's lots to know about this stage, about signing contracts, and how to protect yourself. Duayne and I talk about the early warning signs to look for in this stage, and what to expect from your builder in their communication and planning.   Listen to the episode now to learn more.  PODCAST PARTNER: QUOTESPEC  This season’s podcast partner is Quotespec. Quotespec is a cloud-based app that enables builders and tradespeople to create great-looking, professional, easy to read, and comprehensive quotes for reno and building projects, in a simple and super fast way.   Ask your builder or tradesperson "do you use Quotespec?" and if they don't, send them here to find out more about it ... www.quotespec.com.au/undercoverarchitect  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to make your construction process simpler – and you more sane and confident?  Manage Your Build is my online program that will give you key knowledge, tools, cheatsheets and industry insider checklists and tips, plus strategies to save your sanity and budget as well.   This online program can support you, help you avoid expensive mistakes and drama, and put you in the driver's seat, feeling confident during the construction of your new home or renovation.  Head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild to see more about what's inside the program, and how it can save you stress and money as you navigate the construction of your reno or new home.  SHOW NOTES FOR THIS EPISODE:  This podcast is called "The Stages of Home Construction". We're diving into the process of home construction for both new builds and renovations, so you can feel informed as your project gets built. We'll be looking at the what, when, who and how of each stage and we'll be giving you loads of helpful, cost saving, and stress saving, ideas and information along the way.  Have you wondered what's going to happen during the construction phase of your renovation or new home? The actual step-by-step process of construction? What the stages are in how it gets built? And when you'll have to make payments, what they're for, and how to be sure the work is complete and done correctly?   And have you heard horror stories about builders going into liquidation, and homeowners having already paid 80% of their building contract, with only 50% of the home being complete? Or builders not coming back to finish the home because they've had their last bill paid and are not interested in returning to deal with the incomplete work?  This construction phase can be a huge challenge, full of stress and expensive problems for the newbie renovator or home builder.  When you enter into a contract with a builder for the renovation of your existing home, or construction of your new one, you enter a legal process. That process is laid out in the document you sign together, and any accompanying documents and drawings that form part of the contract. The contract describes the work that needs to be completed. And it outlines the obligations of both parties, and the processes for contract execution are also detailed.  The contract also outlines how work needs to be paid for as the project progresses. Whichever contract you're using, it will outline the total cost for your project, and then this will be broken up into a schedule of payments. Those payments will be aligned the completion of specific work as you move through each stage in your building or renovation project.  These staged contract payments can also be known as Draws, Progress Payments, Progress Claims - just to name a few of the terms for them.   And they can be a huge source of confusion as you try to work out if the builder has finished the work they're claiming a payment for, and make sure you're not getting caught out and paying ahead.  So, in this season of the podcast, builder, Duayne Pearce, and I (architect, Amelia Lee), are taking you through The Stages of Home Construction.   Listen to the episode now to learn more.  PODCAST PARTNER: QUOTESPEC  This season’s podcast partner is QuoteSpec. QuoteSpec is a cloud-based app that enables builders and tradespeople to create great-looking, professional, easy to read, and comprehensive quotes for reno and building projects, in a simple and super fast way.   Ask your builder or tradesperson "do you use QuoteSpec?" and if they don't, send them here to find out more about it ... www.quotespec.com.au/undercoverarchitect FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode introduces a new Project Diary on the Undercover Architect website – the design and construction of a new home in New Zealand.  This is a project I designed for the owners late last year, and so, in this episode, I share how the design process went, and how I worked with these homeowners to create the design for their future forever family home.  So, what’s a Project Diary? Well, it’s where we follow the journey of someone who is building or renovating their home. There are already 2 Project Diaries on the Undercover Architect website.  One is the renovation of a Queenslander cottage, and the other is the construction of a new family home for the Andersons. These project diaries go step by step through their journey … from their design process, their quoting, their selection of a builder and then the construction and completion of the home. It’s really great if you’re planning a project yourself to see how another family did theirs, and what they learnt along the way.  And it’s the Andersons that we’re following again.   See, late last year, they got an offer they couldn’t refuse to relocate back to New Zealand, which is where they’re originally from. They put their home on the market, it sold quickly and they found a large block of land in New Zealand. They worked with me to create design for their home, and they’re now working with a local draftsperson, builder and other consultants to kick their project off.  And they’ve kindly invited us along for the ride. So, I thought I’d use this podcast episode to give you an insight into how the initial design for their home was created.   And then over the coming months, I’ll be sharing more information, as well as photos and videos from their building site in New Zealand. Whilst I’ve never seen it in person, the Andersons are awesome at photographing the progress, and even taking drone footage. So, you’ll get a great chance to see how this project unfolds in the months ahead.  In this episode, I’ll be sharing with you how the Andersons briefed me on their needs, wants and wishes for this home, and the designs I created as a result. You’ll also be able to check out these designs by heading to the website >>> head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/newzealandhome1   Listen to the episode for more info now.   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Got questions about your renovation or new home?  This episode answers 3 questions I receive frequently from the UA Community.  I receive a lot of questions from homeowners. Between comments on the blog, people getting in touch over email or social media, and from the members in my online programs, it’s always great to see what homeowners are curious about, and the help they need.   I’ve selected these 3 questions because I receive them really regularly. These 3 questions are:  What is the best stage to get a quantity surveyor in to do a cost report on your design?  Do I really need a Project Manager on my new build or renovation?  How do I find time to get my reno or building planning started?  Listen to the episode for more info now.   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Know what to look for in an architect's or designer's quote so you can protect yourself and your project. Request your FREE Guide now … It includes a complete transcript of this podcast, my top 10 tips, plus 3 bonus tips not mentioned anywhere else >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/quotechecklist  This episode is to help you know what to look for in an architect’s or designer’s quote. If you’re receiving fee proposals from potential designers for your project – and infact any consultants you might need on your team, this episode will be great for you.   I’ve seen many architect and designer quotes in my time now, and to be frank, some of them are shocking. They expose both the homeowner and the designer to a huge amount of risk.   And it’s fine when everything goes well, but if there’s any discrepancy or frustration during the project, then it can be very difficult to understand next steps, and what recourse you might have in your project. The fee proposal, and any agreement you sign, becomes a type of contract for the services you’re paying for. When it’s not well-written, it can cause huge problems.  What type of problems? Well, let me share a scenario I hear FAR TOO OFTEN when it comes to homeowners working with designers. This is not typical to architects … it happens with building designers, interior designers, draftspeople – I hear it across the board.  So, in initial conversations, the designer seems great. They don’t seem precious about aesthetic or particular design direction. They tell you they’re not fixed on any one style, and will design to what you’re seeking aesthetically.  They tell you your budget is spot one for what you want to build or renovate.  They give you a timeframe to execute your project and they’re ready to start now.  And so you sign on the dotted line.  Things start well enough, but then things slow down, they’re not responding to your phonecalls or emails, and missing deadlines they promised.  Or, they’re now telling you your budget isn’t enough, and they’re not willing to have their reputation damaged because you want them to design a budget project.  And style-wise, they now have a specific vision for your project, and really couldn’t care less if it’s how you wanted your home to look.  They now seem to be precious about their reputation, and their design style and vision. They take feedback personally. They threaten to resign when you express your frustrations. They tell you they own copyright and you can’t take the design anywhere else.   You’re backed into a corner, bullied and battle-worn, and feeling like you’re funding the work of an ego-maniac. And you can’t wait for the whole thing to be over and for you to just be in your finished home already. It’s not the home you dreamed of, you’re spending more than you wanted, it doesn’t look the way you expected, but you’re tired, and feel stressed every meeting and during every conversation with the designer.   You feel you’ve got too far into the process to turn around now, and anyway, who would pick up the process now? So, you keep paying your increasing bills, and subjecting yourself to terrible service from a design professional who only demonstrates arrogance in their ability and little respect towards you as their client.  Sounds horrible doesn’t it? And it is. And unfortunately it’s a scenario I hear far too often, and as I said, it’s not typical to architects. It happens across the board, regardless of the design professional’s qualifications.   Some design professionals are just terrible at taking care of their clients.   The good news? You being informed is the key to not hiring these people in the first place, or seeing the red flags early so you can terminate things quickly.   It starts with your quote or fee proposal, and the agreement you sign with your designer. So, let’s look at what needs to be in it, so you can check this off for your project. I’ve got 10 things for you to look for in your architect’s or designer’s quote or fee proposal.   Listen to the episode for more info now.   And head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/quotechecklist and download the full transcript of this podcast.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grab the free e-guide “How to Design a Home – 5 Simple Steps to Get Started and Get it Right”.  This guide will take you through how to create a home that works for you – now and always. It’s based on my work with hundreds of clients over more than 2 decades in this industry, and will simplify the design of your future family home. You can get it by heading to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/homedesign  This episode is all about the designer you choose for your project. If you’ve decided you’re going to work with one, it’s usually the first choice you’ll make.    And I say ‘if’, because I know that many homeowners don’t work directly with a designer. From what I’ve seen, especially in my time in Undercover Architect, many homeowners will draw up their own design on an app, or on paper, and then take it to a builder. The builder may have their own drafting team, and so that homeowner-prepared design then gets converted into drawings for approval and construction.  However, if you have decided to work with a designer, the first question many homeowners have is ‘who do I choose?’ … which is quickly followed by ‘how do I know for sure they’ll be any good?’  So, how do you find the right designer for you and your project?   Well, firstly, it’s accepting that not all designers are created equal. Then it’s a case of assessing their experience, how they treat you, and knowing how to work with them to get the best from the relationship.  So, I’m going to give you 7 nuggets of knowledge to use to assess your designer.   You can use these before you start working with them to determine if they’re worth hiring … and in the early stages of your project when there’s still time to walk away without too much collateral damage.   These 7 Knowledge Nuggets are:  They have a process that demonstrates efficiency  They can communicate  They don’t take feedback personally  They tell you what you need to hear  They guide you  They treat your money like their own  They have industry knowledge and experience  Listen to the episode for more info now.   And head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/how-to-choose-a-designer for the full transcript of this podcast.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Request your free E-Guide “The View from Upper Block” which includes a transcript of this podcast >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/viewfromupper   Is your main view from the upper floor of your home? And are you needing help with how to design a home to best suit this?   I receive so many questions about how to design a home when your best view is from the upper level. Especially from homeowners who have young families, and are grappling with where to locate the major living areas of the home.  Do your living areas get located on the upper floor where you can make the most of the view, but then accept that they're a storey away from the garden? Or on the lower floor where your living spaces can then have a great indoor / outdoor connection, but then don't have the view as part of that everyday living space?  Having a view can add some serious dollars to the value of your home. It can often improve natural light, and natural ventilation too, as you're exposed to sunlight and breezes in your home.   So if your view is amazing from upstairs and invisible from the lower floor, that might have already made the decision for you about how to arrange your spaces. Or, if your block is narrow, your main view is out to the streetside of the home and your lower floor is going to be all garage door and entry, then again, your decision may be simple to put living on the upper floor.  If it's not this straight forward, or perhaps your main view is to the rear, then ultimately only you can make the choice that suits your needs and your home.   However, there are some challenges and opportunities to consider, and questions to ask, so you create the best outcome for you.   In this episode, I discuss the key challenges to contend with when designing for a block of land when your main view is from the upper level or floor. I also explain the opportunities that are available, and how to maximise them.  And, I take you 10 key questions to ask about your 'View from Upper' block, and the home you’re building or renovating on it. These questions will help you create a home that suits your land, and creates a great outcome for your lifestyle.  Whether choosing a home off the plan, building a custom designed home, or renovating and extending your existing one, there are certain things to know so you can make the most of your 'View from Upper' block.  Listen to the episode now!  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Request your free E-Guide “The Dual Access Block” which includes a transcript of this podcast >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/dualaccessblock   What is a dual access block? Well, this is what we call a block that has two frontages – at opposite ends of the home.  This may be via two street frontages, because for some reason there’s been a subdivision that’s left a sliver of land only one block deep. Or it may be because the home faces a park where pedestrians can arrive at the home – but it has street access for car at the other side of it. Or perhaps, it has rear lane access at one end, and a street frontage at the other.  Your home may not have dual access strictly speaking - but perhaps it overlooks a park, or reserve area or golf club to its rear. However, as a result its back is more exposed, you might have popped a gate in your back fence, and you end up having two frontages as well. So some of these strategies used for dual access blocks will also apply to you.  If you’re listening in Australia, you may be familiar with the last season of The Block, which featured dual access blocks. There was a street on one side, and a laneway at the other end of each site. Old cottages were relocated to the front of each site, with a new two-storey extension designed for them.   The extension had a kitchen / living /dining and deck at the rear, and then a garden. Then, on the rear laneway, a two storey building was built, which had garaging at the lower floor, and a studio over the top. These are also known as Fonzie Flats – in honour of Arthur Fonzarelli from Happy Days. If you don't remember Happy Days, I’m showing my age here. But it was a TV show we watched as a kid, and Fonzie lived in a flat over the Cunningham’s garage.   I'm not kidding though - this type of development is seriously known as a Fonzie flat in the property industry. And so I'll talk a bit more about this design strategy for dual access blocks, later in the episode.  There will be some parallels between a dual access block, and a corner block. However, I find that dual access blocks require some different thinking because of what happens to a home when it’s basically straddling between two public interfaces. What happens it has to face or address a frontage at either end of the block, maintain security and appear like its not turning its back, can be a bit different to the exposure of a corner block.  However there are consistent challenges and opportunities when it comes to designing for a dual access block that are worth being aware of to get great outcomes.   And, I take you 10 key questions to ask about your dual access block, and the home you’re building or renovating on it. These questions will help you create a home that suits your land, and creates a great outcome for your lifestyle.  Whether choosing a home off the plan, building a custom designed home, or renovating and extending your existing one, there are certain things to know so you can make the most of your dual access block.  Listen to the episode now!  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Request your free E-Guide “The Acreage Block” which includes a transcript of this podcast >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/acreageblock   Acreage homes can cover a lot of different types. It can be a single acre in a suburban area where large lots are the norm ... right through to a regional or remote area, where there’s thousands and thousands of acres of a working property, with a home situated on it.  Through Undercover Architect, I’ve had the benefit of working with many regional clients, both here and overseas. And I also live on acreage myself, in the Byron Hinterland.   Over the years, and especially from my own personal experience of living in our current home, I’ve learnt that acreage homes are a really different experience of design and living.   There’s different ways to consider how they’re arranged, and how they’re used, and what functionality they need, that can vary from your normal suburban home. Even when they’re in a suburban area.   However there are consistent challenges and opportunities when it comes to designing for an acreage block that are worth being aware of to get great outcoms.   In this episode, I discuss the key challenges to contend with when designing for an acreage block of land. I also explain the opportunities that are available, and how to maximise them.  And, I take you 10 key questions to ask about your acreage block, and the home you’re building or renovating on it. These questions will help you create a home that suits your land, and creates a great outcome for your lifestyle.  Whether choosing a home off the plan, building a custom designed home, or renovating and extending your existing one, there are certain things to know so you can make the most of your acreage block.  Listen to the episode now!  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Request your free E-Guide “The Sloping Block” which includes a transcript of this podcast >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/slopingblock   Do you have a sloping block? And do you know how to design your new home or renovation to make the most of it?  So many homeowners get in touch with me because they have a sloping block and none of the inspiration they’re looking at applies for their scenario. They’re confused about how to get a connection with their outdoor areas, about how they’ll not spend a fortune in excavation and retaining, and how to best deal with the sloping terrain.  This can apply whether their block has a gentle slope to it, is like goat country, or is somewhere in between.   And it usually becomes a case of which of these three options you’ll choose ...   do you build or renovate so our home sits elevated above the slope, floating over it  do you excavate the site to create a flat platform so the whole home can be built of renovated on one flat pad   Or do you do something in between, and step the home to marry in with the slope of the land, so you can create a connection with the site as the home terraces across the slope of the site, creating more of a split level home  Each of these choices have an impact on your costs, the type of home you can build or renovate, and the outcome you create with your home.  However there are consistent challenges and opportunities when it comes to designing for a sloping block that are worth being aware of to get great outcomes.   In this episode, I discuss the key challenges to contend with when designing for a sloping block of land. I also explain the opportunities that are available, and how to maximise them.  And, I take you 10 key questions to ask about your sloping block, and the home you’re building or renovating on it. These questions will help you create a home that suits your land, and creates a great outcome for your lifestyle.  Whether choosing a home off the plan, building a custom designed home, or renovating and extending your existing one, there are certain things to know so you can make the most of your sloping block.  Listen to the episode now!  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Request your free E-Guide “The Wide Block” which includes a transcript of this podcast >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/wideblock   Do you have a wide block? And do you know how to design your new home or renovation to make the most of it?  When it comes to wide blocks, these can occur in different configurations.   There’s of course the more generous blocks. Ones that have nice wide frontages – so generally 15m plus – and are overall quite large in area. They can present challenges in how you arrange the home on the block so that it’s not dwarfed by the overall block itself. So it doesn’t look like a little dot on a great big horizon, basically!   At the other extreme, there’s the configurations where the block is wide and shallow. There are a lot of areas where subdivision has created blocks with a wide frontage, and their overall dimensions mean that a home will be strung out with most of it exposed to the street.   I’m going to focus mainly on those that are shallow and wide – so almost the opposite of what we discussed in narrow blocks in the last episode. The strategies will apply whether your block is shallow or not, but I’ll be specifically talking about blocks that are wider than they’re deep.  However there are consistent challenges and opportunities when it comes to designing for a wide block that are worth being aware of to get great outcomes.   In this episode, I discuss the key challenges to contend with when designing for a wide block of land. I also explain the opportunities that are available, and how to maximise them.  And, I take you 10 key questions to ask about your wide block, and the home you’re building or renovating on it. These questions will help you create a home that suits your land, and creates a great outcome for your lifestyle.  Whether choosing a home off the plan, building a custom designed home, or renovating and extending your existing one, there are certain things to know so you can make the most of your wide block.  Listen to the episode now!  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Request your free E-Guide “The Narrow Block” which includes a transcript of this podcast >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/narrowblock Do you have a narrow block? And do you know how to design your new home or renovation to make the most of it?  When I refer to ‘narrow’ blocks, I mean anything that is 10m or less wide.   For most areas, that constitutes a narrow block, and some can even get down as narrow as 4 or 5m depending on where you live. Actually, I saw a home recently for sale that was on a block that was under 3m wide!   There are specific challenges when you’re designing for a narrow block. These challenges may change as the block size and configuration changes as well.  So, I’m going to focus on big ideas that will help you think about your narrow block, and how to create a home for it. The things you can explore, and some of the strategies that designers use to solve the challenge that is the narrow block.   And I think probably the biggest priority and goal for designing homes on narrow blocks is to help them feel larger than they are. To create a sense of spaciousness and expansiveness that’s not hemmed in by their narrow width, or skinny configuration. So I’ll be sharing ideas about how to achieve that. And even if you don’t have a narrow block - these strategies will help you with creating spaciousness in your home.  However there are consistent challenges and opportunities when it comes to designing for a narrow block that are worth being aware of to get great outcomes.   In this episode, I discuss the key challenges to contend with when designing for a narrow block of land. I also explain the opportunities that are available, and how to maximise them.  And, I take you 10 key questions to ask about your narrow block, and the home you’re building or renovating on it. These questions will help you create a home that suits your land, and creates a great outcome for your lifestyle.  Whether choosing a home off the plan, building a custom designed home, or renovating and extending your existing one, there are certain things to know so you can make the most of your narrow block.  Listen to the episode now!  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grab the bonus free download for this episode, which includes a transcript and worksheet for you to get it right on your corner block >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/cornerblock Do you have a corner block? And do you know how to design your new home or renovation to make the most of it?  There can be a range of attitudes and feelings about corner blocks.   Some people really dislike them because they feel less private, and less secure. Others think they’re great, because they feel more spacious and open to light and views – and feel bigger as a result.   Of course, specific challenges and advantages may vary based on how flat your corner block is (and I’ll be discussing more about sloping blocks later in this season). They may also vary based on the size of your block as well, and the specific dimensions of it.   However there are consistent challenges and opportunities when it comes to designing for a corner block that are worth being aware of to get great outcomes.   In this episode, I discuss the key challenges to contend with when designing for a corner block of land. I also explain the opportunities that are available, and how to maximise them.  And, I take you 10 key questions to ask about your corner block, and the home you’re building or renovating on it. These questions will help you create a home that suits your land, and creates a great outcome for your lifestyle.  Whether choosing a home off the plan, building a custom designed home, or renovating and extending your existing one, there are certain things to know so you can make the most of your corner block.  Listen to the episode now!  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This upcoming podcast season will be all about designing for difficult sites. For the non-standard, non-normal, tricky sites. A cookie cutter approach doesn’t work when your land, block size and shape is different.  When you’re renovating or building, you have a unique opportunity to create a home that suits your block of land. That makes the most of its assets, minimizes the things you don’t like about it, or its immediate environment, and really celebrates the qualities of where you live, and the land you live on.  Homeowners often don’t understand the challenges that are specific to their type of block. And in doing so, they miss the opportunity to maximise the site’s characteristics, and minimise the things they don’t like about it.  Over the coming season, I’m going to be sharing specific design strategies you can use when designing a reno or new home for a trickier or difficult block.   And whilst I’ll be sharing a specific type of block each episode, the strategies I’m sharing and questions I’ll be suggesting you ask yourself, will help you whatever type of block you’re on.  So, let me explain how this season will go. In each episode, as I talk about the different types of tricky sites, I’ll be outlining:  the main challenges for that type of block, and what requires careful consideration when designing your reno or new home  the main advantages or opportunities you want to make the most of  key questions to ask – either yourself, your designer or your builder – so you design a project that is specific to your block of land, whatever it’s shape, size or type  and I’ll also be going through what to focus on to get it right if you’re choosing a home off the plan, building a custom-design home, or extending and renovating an existing home  These are the different types of blocks I’ll be talking about across this coming season.  Episode 01 Corner Blocks  Episode 02 Narrow blocks  Episode 03 Wide, shallow blocks  Episode 04 Sloping blocks  Episode 05 Acreage blocks  Episode 06 Dual access blocks  Episode 07 Blocks where main view is from upper floor  So, let’s dive in!  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are 3 secrets I see homeowners keep when planning and carrying out their home renovation or building projects.  These things are almost unspoken. It’s only been in digging, asking questions, and listening loads, that I’ve seen these things aren’t a one-off – but happen really regularly for many, many homeowners.   These secrets are related to the hesitancy I see homeowners have around discussing money, and the details of their reno or build with others. Particularly with those who could help them stay sane, and feel far more confident and empowered in their project.   There are 2 reasons why these secrets we keep can be really damaging when renovating or building our homes – and can isolate us from the help we need for our success and sanity.  These reasons are:  #1These 3 secrets breed ‘shoulds’. External and internal pressures that can mean we blow our budgets, and create homes for other people, not ourselves.  #2These 3 secrets mean we don’t access the support, help and key information that will rocket-blast your project, and help you avoid the mistakes and drama.  In this episode, I share 3 stories about women you may identify with. In sharing their secrets with me, they got the help they needed to dramatically change how their projects proceeded – and the types of homes they’ll create for their families.  Listen to the episode now.  The  doors to my 6 week  online  program, "How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home" are open NOW.  This online program is a supercharged way to get the education and information you need to understand the process of renovating or building your home. Plus get my help and advice on your project.   I share key lessons I've learnt from over 250 of my projects, many more that I've studied and analysed, and more than 2 decades of industry experience.    All so you can understand the pitfalls and mistakes to avoid, can skip the heartache and drama, and know that your effort, investment and planning will all be worth it in your beautiful finished home. And I'm there, alongside you for your 6 weeks membership to answer your questions and really rocket launch you further along in your project.   To join "How to Get it Right" right now - head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/howtogetitright and you can find out lots of information about the program, what others members thought of it, and how you can join.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MY FREE 7 DAY CHALLENGE IS STARTING NOW! HEAD TO  www.undercoverarchitect.com/7daychallenge  Want to feel and sound like you know what you’re talking about when you build or renovate your home?   And avoid being a newbie, feeling like you have a target on your forehead, waiting to be ripped off or taken advantage of?  A recent report by Ernst & Young estimates that by the year 2028 women will control about 80% of discretionary spending worldwide.   And I recall as far back as 2006, when I was Chair of an Industry Committee, we commissioned research to find the purchasing power of women in the property industry. We that found at that time, that when it comes to property, women either controlled, or heavily influenced 80% of the purchasing decisions.  And yet, and I’ve experienced this personally, when it comes to our own projects, we’ll often find designers, salespeople, builders and tradespeople still want to speak to and listen to our male partners.  I’ve had tradespeople, not knowing I’m an architect, tell me they’ll wait until my husband is home to get instructions on a job (even though it was me who organised the job). Or tell me the most outlandish stuff when quoting, thinking I was a mum with a baby on my hip who didn’t know any better.  A woman named Melissa said her greatest worry about building her new home was this:  It is going into a contractual deal where it becomes obvious that I have no experience in this field and "they" have all the experience. Therefore "they" can easily pull the wool over your eyes or to be more blunt - rip you off. As a woman on her own building a house for the first time I feel like I have a big target cross on my forehead saying "easy".  In this episode, I share 3 key actions for you to consider before you embark on your project, so that all those initial dealings, conversations and choices can achieve 3 things.   These 3 things you’ll achieve are …  you’ll get great service from those you’re hiring  you’ll know who and what to choose to get the outcome you’re seeking  you’ll feel confident and excited about your project, your team and the home you’re going to create  Want to know what the 3 key actions are for you to implement and avoid being a home renovation or new build newbie?   Listen to the episode now.  The doors to my 6 week  online  program, "How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home" will be opening soon.   This online program is a supercharged way to get the education and information you need to understand the process of renovating or building your home. Plus get my help and advice on your project.   I share key lessons I've learnt from over 250 of my projects, many more that I've studied and analysed, and more than 2 decades of industry experience.    All so you can understand the pitfalls and mistakes to avoid, can skip the heartache and drama, and know that your effort, investment and planning will all be worth it in your beautiful finished home. And I'm there, alongside you for your 6 weeks membership to answer your questions and really rocket launch you further along in your project.   To be the first to know when the doors open to "How to Get it Right" - head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/waitlist and pop in your email address now.   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you know what the most underestimated mistake is when building or renovating your home?   Listen to the podcast to learn the renovating and building mistakes to avoid, and how to save your sanity and stress less when renovating or building.  There’s a thing I see happen for many homeowners when embarking on, and executing their reno or new build. And it’s this: They’re totally surprised at how stressful it is. And how stressed they get.  The stress a project can cause catches many homeowners by surprise – because its source is from an entirely different place to what they expected.   The online world is full of promises of ‘easy’ when it comes to building and renovating your home. There are loads of people out there offering to make it this way. Telling you it IS easy and that ANYONE, ANYWHERE can do it, and do it well, regardless of skill or experience. They’re offering their own brand of magic pill.  I have a firm belief on the magic pill thing – based on my experience over the last 20 plus years. It doesn’t exist. There is no magic pill.    But that doesn’t mean your project has to be a disaster, or you have to resign yourself to a journey of nightmares, budget blowouts, and a horrible experience.  Renovating and building can certainly be simplified. You can certainly minimise stress and avoid headaches and pitfalls, and have an enjoyable experience. And, when you get it right, it is all SO worth it.  But first you need to know something really important. Knowing this is how you can stay sane during your renovation or building project.   And this is WHO you will be when you renovate or build your home. Because WHO you will be, and HOW you’ll behave in your project may take you by surprise. And it fundamentally impacts your project and how well it goes.   There’s 3 things to remember when it comes to understanding reasons why stress happens and takes homeowners by surprise:  there is a huge amount of emotion caught up in the whole idea of ‘home’ – and our attachment to it – and creating change to ‘home’ comes with its own cocktail of emotions that we totally underestimate the power of  when renovating or building, you’re not only dealing with dreams, hopes and fears, but also status and personal identity, and that clouds rational judgement, no matter how balanced you try to remain  people are people first, and emotions can get out of hand as people differently under stress – even if you’re dealing with businesses as you renovate or build, everyone is a person first and their behaviour can be impacted by what they’re going through personally  Here’s how to save your sanity, and avoid these stress-making mistakes. Listen to the episode now.  The doors to my 6 week  online  program, "How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home" will be opening soon.   This online program is a supercharged way to get the education and information you need to understand the process of renovating or building your home. Plus get my help and advice on your project.   I share key lessons I've learnt from over 250 of my projects, many more that I've studied and analysed, and more than 2 decades of industry experience.    All so you can understand the pitfalls and mistakes to avoid, can skip the heartache and drama, and know that your effort, investment and planning will all be worth it in your beautiful finished home. And I'm there, alongside you for your 6 weeks membership to answer your questions and really rocket launch you further along in your project.   To be the first to know when the doors open to "How to Get it Right" - head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/waitlist and pop in your email address now.   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you know how to ask for what you want in your renovation or building project? And be sure you’re getting what you paid for?  One of the most frequently asked questions, or challenges that homeowners share with me is  “I have no idea where to start”.   Also, many homeowners tell me also that there are 3 big fears or areas of concern around renovating and building – and these may sound familiar to you. These fears are …  how much the project will cost, and whether the budget will blow out  how long the project will take, and how much of their own time it will take up  how much stress the project will cause them  Are these fears that you have about your project?  In all my experience of working with homeowners who are renovating or building their home, there’s one thing I see REALLY work for them. Both in dealing with those fears, and in helping them get started really effectively and efficiently.   And it’s this: They know how to ask for what they want.   Why is this important? Well, when you know how to ask for what you want with your reno or new home, you:  don’t waste money on getting advice from the wrong people or starting the process in the wrong way  don’t waste time on design, or consultations for your project that aren’t on budget, possible for your home or area, or a good fit for you and your family  get started with the right team for you, who support you, keep you informed and help you manage your risk – and stress as a result  Now, let me be clear – knowing how to ask for what you want does not mean you have to:  solve every problem for your project  design the whole thing yourself  get it all quoted and costed all by yourself  pick every item, material, fixture and finish on your own  However, knowing how to ask for what you want DOES mean you start your project with some prior knowledge. Knowledge which will help you   be a super savvy and informed homeowner and client  be able to interview your potential team and not get taken for a ride  communicate with that team effectively from the get-go  not waste money  not waste time  make those first steps the best steps for you and your project – so you get started efficiently and minimise stress along the way. Knowing how to ask for what you want is one of the very early things you can do to have confidence in your project, and feel more in control – rather than beholden to and blindly trusting everyone you’re speaking to.   Trust is really important with those you bring on board – but it should be informed trust, backed by due diligence, not blind trust based on hope and crossed fingers. Listen to the episode now.  The  doors to my 6 week  online program, "How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home" will be opening soon.   This online program is a supercharged way to get the education and information you need to understand the process of renovating or building your home. Plus get my help and advice on your project.   I share key lessons I've learnt from over 250 of my projects, many more that I've studied and analysed, and more than 2 decades of industry experience.    All so you can understand the pitfalls and mistakes to avoid, can skip the heartache and drama, and know that your effort, investment and planning will all be worth it in your beautiful finished home. And I'm there, alongside you for your 6 weeks membership to answer your questions and really rocket launch you further along in your project.   To be the first to know when the doors open to "How to Get it Right" - head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/waitlist and pop in your email address now.   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! And welcome to 2018 and the first episode this year on the "Get it Right" podcast. And the first episode of Season 5: Mistakes Many Make.  Is renovating or building your home on your agenda for this year?   Well, you know Undercover Architect is packed full of useful information so you can get it right. And what's in store this year is no exception. I have some fantastic content planned for you, and loads of great things to share.   Today's episode is all about helping you save time.   Do you know, time is the only finite resource we really have? It's like that saying - "We all have the same 24 hours as Beyonce". Which actually cracks me up, because I think that 24 hours in the life of Beyonce would look markedly different to 24 hours in my life ... but that's not really the point of the saying is it?   What it's trying to say is that, we all have 24 hours a day ... and how we use them then determines what our days look like, where we get to, the kind of person we are, and what we might accomplish along the way.  Given this is the first episode of 2018 ... I want to help kick your reno or building plans up a gear, and actually get this project done. And doing that starts with HOW, and WHERE you do your research.   In this episode, I share 3 mistakes that many homeowners make as they search online for help when renovating or building.  And I also give you 3 tips to improve your searching, and find information and advice that will move your project forward – and make you more confident and less stressed.  Listen to the podcast now.  Grab your free pdf e-guide “My top 25 online resources when designing building or renovating your home”  Head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/top25 to request your free copy now.  The doors to my 6 week online program, "How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home" will be opening soon. This online program is a supercharged way to get the education and information you need to understand the process of renovating or building your home. Plus get my help and advice on your project.  I share key lessons I've learnt from over 250 of my projects, many more that I've studied and analysed, and more than 2 decades of industry experience.   All so you can understand the pitfalls and mistakes to avoid, can skip the heartache and drama, and know that your effort, investment and planning will all be worth it in your beautiful finished home. And I'm there, alongside you for your 6 weeks membership to answer your questions and really rocket launch you further along in your project.  To be the first to know when the doors open to "How to Get it Right" - head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/waitlist and pop in your email address now.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I wrap up 2017 on the “Get it Right” podcast, and share what’s coming up in 2018.  I thought it would be worthwhile, so if there’s anything you want to go back and revisit or refresh, this can act as a reference and an index for you.   There’s a LOT of information, ideas and inspiration that gets put out each year in Undercover Architect, so this last episode for 2017 will help you find quickly what will be useful for you.  Believe it or not, this is Episode 59 of the Get it Right podcast. Just over a year ago, the very first episode was sent live, and every week since then, there’s been a fresh episode every Tuesday morning. I’ve been told that only 2% of podcasters get to episode 100, so we’ve still got a little way to go to that benchmark!  Listen to the podcast now to hear more, and also learn what’s coming up in 2018. And head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/waitlist to learn when the doors will be opening to “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home”.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I get LOADS of questions … some on the blog, some via email, some on social media and lots and lots inside my online courses.   I find inside my online programs that with everyone in a community, asking questions (and getting my answers), it’s incredibly useful in everyone learning far more collectively than they would 1:1. It’s amazing.  And I also regularly run a survey to understand more about you, as a member of the UA Community. If you’ve ever opted in for one of my free PDF guides, you may have seen me ask you “What is your single biggest challenge when it comes to building or renovating your home”.   I ask people to be as specific as possible – and get some fantastic questions or challenges described … which then help me help you more with what I do in Undercover Architect.  You may have these questions as well. Or perhaps these are questions you haven’t got to yet, or haven’t even thought of yet … or may have never thought of.   So, I’ve got 3 questions to share with you – and some detailed responses to help you if you’ve been wanting answers to these questions too.  Question / Challenge 1:  A member of the UA Community is torn between going via project home route or have their new home architecturally designed.  They’d prefer not to have a project home but there’s uncertainty on what their budget can buy them if going through the architect route. And so this is holding them back from making a choice.  Question / Challenge 2:  Another member of the UA Community asked: What’s the difference between building approval and CDC / DA approval or are they the same thing?  Question / Challenge 3:  A member of “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home” asked this: After we have an idea of our design (in app form). Who do we need to consult with next and in what order - the structural engineer, the geotechnical engineer, surveyor or the draftsperson? Obviously, we don't want to go back and forth any more than necessary! And be spending money on fees.  Listen to the podcast now for my answers to these questions, and help for you to take action on your project. And head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/waitlist to learn when the doors will be opening to “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home”.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you get started on planning a renovation or building project?  And how do you avoid procrastinating for so long that you never actually get started?  I love this quote by Christopher Parker ... “Procrastination is like a credit card: it's a lot of fun until you get the bill.”   We can, and often do, dress up procrastination as 'planning'. And often what it actually is instead fear, confusion and overwhelm.  So, my aim with this episode is to help you recognise if you're procrastinating. And to help you move instead into PREPARING and PLANNING your project.   In this episode, I show you how you can tell the difference between preparing and procrastinating ...   I share with you how "preparing" feels ...   and then what can go wrong and might make you slip into procrastination ...   and then how to get it right so you can be productive with your time ...   and some key action tips you can put in place now to get prepared for your reno or building project.  Now, if you’re in the UA Community, it’s generally because:  You’re super invested in getting a great outcome for your new or renovated home  You’re aware that there’s a bunch of stuff you don’t know, and you’re worried about what that gap in knowledge might cost you extra in time, money and stress  You feel there’s so much at stake, and you’re navigating this unknown territory with nerves and concerns.   It seems that the more you find out, the more you realise you don't know.  You want to be involved in your project, and have a voice in the process, and so you’re seeking to equip yourself with the know-how, tools, tips and strategies to do this  Ultimately, you don’t want to be another disaster story.   And you don’t have to be – and that’s why both you and I are here.   Undercover Architect is all about helping you avoid the mistakes and heartache that many deal with renovating and building. So you can skill yourself up in what you need to know to make your home great, and have a successful project.  BUT …  You still haven’t started your project, have you?  So let’s talk about what’s might be holding you back. And how you can switch that around so renovating or building your home doesn’t only become a possibility ... It actually becomes an achievable dream that you can stop delaying, and start doing sooner.   Sound good? I think so too …   Listen to the podcast now.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trying to make the decision whether to renovate, or to knockdown-rebuild can prevent people from starting their project for months, or even years, as they juggle all the options and are unable to choose one way or the other.  If this is you, and you’re trying to make the decision whether to renovate your existing home, or to start again and build a new home, this podcast will help you choose.   I share 3 deciding factors you can use, if you’re juggling whether to renovate or demolish your existing home and build new. Here’s a sneak peak:  Deciding Factor #1: Is knocking the house down to build a new one even an option in your area?  That can be a super fast way to determine if building a new home is possible at all for you.  Deciding Factor #2:  Is the orientation of the existing home is generally workable?  If your home doesn’t work for the movement of the sun, and getting it to do this will require huge structural change, it may be simpler to start again with a new build with a layout designed to suit your site and the sun’s movement.  Deciding Factor #3: Does the real estate value check tell you anything?  Is your area a new home area? Or a renovated old home area? And how do values compare? What does this tell you about whether you’ll overcapitalize or not?  And I also share 3 strategies you can get started with to determine whether to renovate or knockdown-rebuild – here’s they are in summary.  Strategy #1: Do some due diligence on your existing home.  Try to uncover all the potential challenges you’ll have in renovating it and bringing it up to current building requirements.  Strategy #2: Be realistic about the cost of building new.  Include all the various costs in creating a finished home. Often those prices you see advertised don’t include driveways or floor coverings, and have base level fixtures and light-bulbs for lighting.  Strategy #3: Consider getting a soil test and survey done.  These are processes you’ll need done anyway, and they can highlight any challenges a renovation or new build may pose, so your estimates can reflect your real situation.  I hope you find this episode helpful if you’re grappling with whether to renovate or build new.   It can be a challenging choice to make and it’s one that many homeowners get in touch with me about, and deliberate over for a very long time. So now you can use these deciding factors and strategies to help you with making your choice.  Listen to the podcast now.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you're listening to this around its time of release, it's late November, and there's less than 5 weeks until Christmas. And even less time to the start of school holidays! AArrrggh - where is the year going hey?   So, if you're planning some work on your place over the holidays, I want to share with you some tips. Because NOW is the time to get ready.  And if you're not listening at the time this episode was released, and it's say, August or some other month ... then these are still good checks for you to do before you hit 'go' on any project at home. Whether you're planning anything big or small, these tips will help minimise the headaches in getting it done.  So let's dive in! Let me share 7 tips to help you get sorted, so you can use your time effectively, to get work done this time of year. Because now is the time to get yourself ready.  Tip #1:  Check who else will be on holidays  So you don't get caught out like I did and have to scramble for suppliers or tradespeople mid-project.  Tip #2:  Make room for some holiday time  Don't wear yourself out so much on getting your project done, that you forget to actually relax in your holiday.  Tip #3:  Work towards the big picture  You'll be better served ensuring that all work you're doing on your project is heading towards a masterplan vision for it - rather than having to undo work down the track.  Tip #4:  Tick all the boxes  Don't forget to do things legally so you don't get into trouble with your local council, approvals and rules and regulations.  Tip #5:  Plan what you'll get through - and be realistic.   Create a plan of how much you can actually get through, so you don't finish your holiday with a half-done job, and feeling disappointed you've not got done what you wanted to, because your expectations were actually too high.  Tip #6:  Make the most of it, while it's still just on paper  When your home reno or new build is still lines on a page, you have a precious window of opportunity to be sure you've got it right - before all those lines become permanent choices you have to live with.  Tip #7:  Be patient - and look for the silver lining.  Can't get done what you want to? Look for other opportunities in your project. Tick off tasks you can do, and get yourself super prepared for future ones. You'll save time, money and stress in the long run.  Listen to the podcast now.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let’s dive into the role of Builder on your project. Duayne Pearce is a Brisbane-based licensed Builder, with over 20 years experience.   Now Duayne is someone, like me, who is passionate about helping educate homeowners about how to get the best outcomes from their building or renovation project. So, Duayne and I first connected on social media and I’ve followed Duayne for a while now. He creates these great short videos that he shares on his facebook page to show things to be aware of and mistakes to avoid in your project – usually shot on site as he uncovers previous work that’s not been done well. This is the first time Duayne and I have met in person, so it’s great to have him joining me on this episode.  So Duayne is half the force behind D Pearce Constructions, which is award-winning construction company based in Scarborough, Queensland. That’s on the outskirts of Brisbane for those who don’t know where Scarborough is.   He and his wife Camille, run the business. They specialise in quality high-end residential renovations and new builds, and have worked with many of Queensland's best architects and trades.   Their mission is to be acknowledged as an industry leader by building well-designed, functional homes. And this is where I really connect with Duayne, because he gets the power of design in creating a great lifestyle for a homeowner in their finished home.  Duayne has completed over 70 residential projects, varying from small renovations to large architectural homes. The company has also received many awards, and Duayne himself was recognized with the Queensland Master Builders Rising Star Award in 2010.  Duayne believes that building should be an enjoyable process. He’s passionate about creating positive experiences for builders and clients. In addition to building quality homes, Duayne also facilitates free consumer seminars called “Build Your Knowledge”. So these seminars help homeowners understand the building process, and ask questions from someone who does it everyday.  He also runs networking and information events for builders called Builders Unite. These events are focused on helping builders connect with each other, and improve their processes via networking and exchanging feedback.  So, perhaps you can see now why I thought he was the perfect builder to get on this last episode of Season 4, Know Your Team.   It’s great to sit down with Duayne and talk about the role of the Builder. I hear so often from homeowners their nerves around choosing the right builder for them. And so it’s super critical to know what to look for, how to choose, and how to be sure you’re finding the best fit for you and your project. Duayne helps us, from his perspective, understand how to do this well.  This is about the WHO, the WHAT, the WHEN and the WHY of using a Builder for your renovation or building project.   Our “Get it Right” podcast partner for Season 4 is COLORBOND® steel and their Matt range.  COLORBOND® steel Matt is a great choice for creating a stunning, sophisticated and subtle look for your home. With a beautiful and neutral look, it has an elegance I know you’ll love, and diffuses light for a soft, natural, textured finish.   And not only does COLORBOND® steel Matt look gorgeous … It’s also durable, strong, 100% recyclable, high tech, tested and designed for the Australian climate, a choice for bushfire zones, able to give your home a contemporary and sophisticated feel, AND has 50 years of history behind it as a brand.  Head to www.colorbond.com/undercoverarchitect for more info  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Julia Levitt and Fiona Ericsson are the team behind Sticks and Stones Landscape Design, and in this episode, we’re talking about what a Landscape Designer does, and how they can help your renovation or new home.  Now, as we near the end of Season 4, we’ve had some amazing professionals sharing incredibly useful information with us about what they do, and how their role can help you in your project.  And in Episode 6, Luke Jones of Larc Collective talked through the role of a Landscape Architect in helping you with your outdoor areas and exterior landscape design.  Landscape Designers are another discipline, or profession, that can assist with the design and construction of your garden and outdoor areas.   So, I’m really excited to sit down in this episode with Fiona and Julia from Sticks and Stones Landscape Design.  Sticks & Stones Landscape Design is a Sydney-based dynamic and contemporary young business with an ambitious and energetic approach. Their stunning work has been published in several magazines including House & Garden, Inside Out and Better Homes & Gardens.  The team consists of Fiona Ericsson and Julia Levitt, who met while studying Landscape Design and Horticulture.    With Julia’s passion for plants and Fiona’s background in Fine Arts, they discovered that together they had something special. They decided to harness their complementary talents and take the industry head on.  In 2014 Fiona was recognised with a Design Award for her creative and innovative use of space.   Shortly afterwards, Sticks & Stones designed a show garden at Grand Designs Live Expo, Sydney. I remember seeing it at that Grand Designs Live Expo that year. There were these amazing free-standing installations done by various landscape designers, all using the same floor area. I saw Sticks and Stones design as this fresh, light, clever display. It was this gorgeous urban landscape, with a pizza oven and BBQ, and cluster of pendant lights set against beautiful textured brickwork and sculptural planting. So much functionality and fun squeezed into a compact space.   And the wins keep on coming … In 2016 Julia celebrated an Australian Institute of Landscape Designers and Managers (AILDM) National Design Gold & Best In Category Awards.  Sticks & Stones’ projects include such varied work as designing office spaces in Fox Studios around a bespoke hanging garden, to lush Northern Beaches home gardens and compact courtyards in the Inner West.   All of their designs, however, hinge on the two fundamental principles of garden design: creating a space that is aesthetically pleasing, while still being highly functional.   This achievement comes about through close discussion with the clients around their needs, a well-balanced canvas of materials and plants and, above all, attention to detail.   Sticks & Stones approach each project individually and work to seamlessly connect architecture with the landscape, to create a unique space that transforms the clients’ experience of outdoor living.   Because this is the thing isn’t it … most homeowners I speak to are seeking a beautiful finished new or renovated home. And nothing ‘finishes’ a home or … and nothing improves the quality, functionality and feel of your home - like the landscape design   It’s great to sit down with Julia and Fiona and discuss the role of a Landscape Designer, and how they can help in your project.   This is about the WHO, the WHAT, the WHEN and the WHY of using a Landscape Designer for your renovation or building project.    Our “Get it Right” podcast partner for Season 4 is COLORBOND® steel and their Matt range.  COLORBOND® steel Matt is a great choice for creating a stunning, sophisticated and subtle look for your home. With a beautiful and neutral look, it has an elegance I know you’ll love, and diffuses light for a soft, natural, textured finish.   And not only does COLORBOND® steel Matt look gorgeous … It’s also durable, strong, 100% recyclable, high tech, tested and designed for the Australian climate, a choice for bushfire zones, able to give your home a contemporary and sophisticated feel, AND has 50 years of history behind it as a brand.  Head to www.colorbond.com/undercoverarchitect for more info  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we’re talking about what a Building Certifier is, and why you need them – in fact, in most cases, they’re essential to any building or renovation project. They can also be known as a Private Certifier.   Mick Tyrell is a Brisbane-based licensed Building Designer, with over 15 years industry experience.   Mick is someone I’ve known and worked with for many years. I actually worked with his brother for many years at Mirvac – he was on my project team documenting the homes we were doing in Bulimba in Brisbane. So, it’s been a family affair!   Mick was the Private Certifier on my own most recent renovation, and was an essential team member in helping us see that project through.   In addition to being a Building Certifier, Mick is also a registered Queensland Structural Engineer. So, in his all his work, building safety is his priority. And this combination of skills – certification and engineering – is a great asset to a project.   In my experience of working with lots of great, and not so great Building Certifiers, the best ones become really collaborative members of your team.    They help you streamline the process overall when they can strategically think about how to help your design perform the way it needs to, so it can be approved and be built. They’re not simply someone who gets a pile of drawings dumped on their desk at a specific point in your project to then tick a bunch of boxes, and do their job.   Working with Mick like this has always been an important part of ensuring we can get to site as simply as possible, and be assured there’ll be no unnecessary stalls or hiccups in that process.   In addition to his engineer background, he has over seven years experience of domestic building certification for homeowners, builders and designers in Brisbane and beyond.   He works incredibly hard to provide every client with the prompt personalised service and attention to detail they deserve. And, he’s just completed his own home renovation – so he has that personal insight into understanding the peace of mind that comes from professional, streamlined and efficient certification!   Building Approvals and Advice is a Brisbane-based team of building certification consultants. They work on projects throughout Queensland, and partner with designers, builders, architects, planners and engineers across a range of domestic and commercial projects.  And, as managing director of Building Approvals and Advice, Mick also coordinates their experienced team.   They have recently been recognised as the Building Certification Team of the Year at the National RICS awards for a second year in a row (2016 and 2017).   They can help with services including building inspections, pool fence compliance certificates, energy reports and relaxations. Mick’s personal experience extends from underpinning, renovations, to new homes and house demolition or removal.   Not sure what all of those things are, and why you might need a Building Certifier to help out with them? Well, that’s some of what we’ll be talking about in this episode.   It’s great to sit down with Mick to talk about the role of the Building Certifier. There can be a lot of confusion over what a Certifier does, and why you might need one. And given that you, in most cases, can’t even commence construction on your project without getting one involved, it’s worthwhile understanding more about what they do.   This is about the WHO, the WHAT, the WHEN and the WHY of using a Building Certifier for your renovation or building project.    Our “Get it Right” podcast partner for Season 4 is COLORBOND® steel and their Matt range.  COLORBOND® steel Matt is a great choice for creating a stunning, sophisticated and subtle look for your home. With a beautiful and neutral look, it has an elegance I know you’ll love, and diffuses light for a soft, natural, textured finish.    And not only does COLORBOND® steel Matt look gorgeous … It’s also durable, strong, 100% recyclable, high tech, tested and designed for the Australian climate, a choice for bushfire zones, able to give your home a contemporary and sophisticated feel, AND has 50 years of history behind it as a brand.  Head to www.colorbond.com/undercoverarchitect for more info  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I speak with Matthew Willis of Bushfire Planning Services. Matt is a Bushfire Consultant, and will be sharing with us when you require this role in your renovation or building project.   Now before you think: Bushfire Consultant? Why would I need a Bushfire Consultant? I don’t live near the bush, I don’t have any bush nearby, and fire isn’t an issue for my property.    Wait.  Surprisingly you don’t need to live right near a large area of bush to be impacted by a bushfire risk.  In fact, I first connected with my guest for this episode when looking at a suburban home in Sydney. The Bushfire risk come up in my early council searches, even though this home didn’t look like it was anywhere near any significant bush.   However, the site did back onto a narrow reserve. And then that reserve was this thin sliver of treed area than gradually connected into larger bush area, and then National Park. And that posed a bushfire risk to this property, and hence brought about the bushfire overlay.    I’ve had a similar experience with a property in Perth that was simply located in a suburban area where each block was quite steep, had significant trees on it, and there was a reserve nearby.  And if you’re in a regional location, you may also be aware that you have a bushfire risk to manage for your property.   So, let me introduce Matthew Willis. Matt is a Bushfire Consultant and Principal at Bushfire Planning Services.   Bushfire Planning Services is an established and professional consultancy firm specialising in Bushfire Risk Assessments and compliance issues, mainly within NSW.  With over 15 years’ experience in the bushfire mitigation and compliance industry and with thousands of successfully approved projects, Bushfire Planning Services is one of the most experienced companies in the industry today.   They have extensive knowledge of the finer points of the NSW requirements for building in bushfire prone areas, types of products available for construction and the requirements of the Australian Standard for building in bushfire prone areas.   Matt personally has extensive knowledge of construction methods and materials gained through 10 years of prior involvement in the building industry.    And he was a Fire fighter with the New South Wales Fire Brigade (now New South Wales Fire and Rescue) and is also one of the first people in Australia to gain a Post Graduate Degree in Planning for Bushfire Prone Areas.  Matt has also sat on industry committees with the New South Wales Rural Fire Service and has a good working relationship with both the RFS and many local councils.  Over the years Bushfire Planning Services have established good working relationships with the New South Wales Rural Fire Service and local councils alike. This allows them to discuss projects prior to submission, which in turn allows for a smooth passage through the approval process, saving time, money and heartache.  This is a great opportunity for us to understand more about how a Bushfire Consultant can help you and what you may need to be aware of if this is something to consider for your property.  This is about the WHO, the WHAT, the WHEN and the WHY of using a Bushfire Consultant for your renovation or building project. So, let’s get into the episode.  Our “Get it Right” podcast partner for Season 4 is COLORBOND® steel and their Matt range.  COLORBOND® steel Matt is a great choice for creating a stunning, sophisticated and subtle look for your home. With a beautiful and neutral look, it has an elegance I know you’ll love, and diffuses light for a soft, natural, textured finish.   And not only does COLORBOND® steel Matt look gorgeous … It’s also durable, strong, 100% recyclable, high tech, tested and designed for the Australian climate, a choice for bushfire zones, able to give your home a contemporary and sophisticated feel, AND has 50 years of history behind it as a brand.  Head to www.colorbond.com/undercoverarchitect for more info. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is all about Interior Designers, what they do and how they help you.  I know this is an area where homeowners can get confused. I see some homeowners using an Interior Designer to simply choose soft furnishings like cushions and fabrics … through to getting their help for the overall vision for the internal colour and material palettes … extending through to being a partner, working alongside them in their project in the design of interior elements like joinery and fitout of their home … and even through to designing whole extensions and renovations. It’s a wide pool of work isn’t it!  So, Melissa Wittig of Healthy Interiors is joining me in this episode to share her knowledge about how an Interior Designer can help your project, and some key tips to help you along the way.  Now, Melissa is a “health focused” Interior Designer. What does this mean?   Well, Melissa can explain that a little more, but basically, our indoor environments are not always the healthiest places for us to be. Choices we make in materials, soft furnishings, paintwork, and other things we live and work around everyday can impact the air quality and how well we thrive in these spaces.   So Melissa’s work not only focuses on Interior Design, but also in helping homeowners understand how to make choices that create healthy interiors.  Melissa’s work and knowledge has been published in various publications including, Sanctuary and House & Garden Magazines. She is also the author of several award recognised design resources including an App and a book called The Smart Living Handbook, which she co-authored with Danielle King.  In fact, it’s via this book that I found Melissa. I personally was doing some research for Alexx Stuart’s Low Tox Life Community about how to renovate and build in a Low Tox way. I found and bought a copy of Melissa and Danielle’s book, and have had it sitting on my desk since. I use it for the members of my online program Your Reno Roadmap, as some have families with allergies, so choosing carpets or other items for example, that don’t cause problems for them, is a key concern in renovating their homes. If renovating or building in a healthy way is something you’d like to learn more about, the book is a great place to start.  Melissa has over 15 years experience and a culmination of skills and knowledge that assists clients to create beautiful, functional homes with consideration to lasting functionality and property value.  And Melissa is also passionate about helping homeowners and their families discover how to create a beautiful home that is energy efficient and supports good health.  I’m really excited to be sitting down with Melissa.  This is about the WHO, the WHAT, the WHEN and the WHY of using an Interior Designer for your renovation or building project.    Our “Get it Right” podcast partner for Season 4 is COLORBOND® steel and their Matt range.  COLORBOND® steel Matt is a great choice for creating a stunning, sophisticated and subtle look for your home. With a beautiful and neutral look, it has an elegance I know you’ll love, and diffuses light for a soft, natural, textured finish.   And not only does COLORBOND® steel Matt look gorgeous … It’s also durable, strong, 100% recyclable, high tech, tested and designed for the Australian climate, a choice for bushfire zones, able to give your home a contemporary and sophisticated feel, AND has 50 years of history behind it as a brand.   Head to www.colorbond.com/undercoverarchitect for more info. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we head outside … and into the gardens and exteriors of our homes.  When we’re renovating or building our home, we are often seeking a big improvement in our lifestyle at home. This can mean enlarging our home, or building a bigger one. And generally it means creating fantastic living / kitchen / dining spaces, that then flow to outdoor entertaining areas and functional gardens.   Our connection with nature, with our environment, can make a big difference to how we feel, and how our homes feel. Creating gardens and outdoor areas that are safe, secure and that add lifestyle to our homes, can make a huge difference to our finished project.   BUT … and it’s a big but …   Often they get left off the budget altogether. Or cut off at some point during the project when money gets tight. Or set aside as a DIY job with some Weekend Warrior, Backyard Blitz action planned … that never quite happens like we plan for it.  And yet, they’re such a big part of helping our projects feel finished … and also helping our homes work well. To have that space around your home – be it compact or generous – that is well designed and beautiful to be in, is so significant for our homes and our lifestyles in them.  Homeowners are often surprised at the cost of their landscaping. It can vary based on your site, and the nature of topography, how easy access is for machinery, and what you’re seeking to create in your project.   As you can imagine, it can be fairly labour intensive – especially if your site is hard to get gear into, and work is being done by hand. And dirt has this handy way of expanding in size when you pull it out of the ground, and so moving it around, and getting it off site, can get expensive. Add to that any retaining and services you want to add, plus the style and design of your hardscape or paved areas, and planting … it’s like designing another room to your home. And it’s so worth the effort when you get it right, so it’s great if you can give it attention and budget in your project.  I think too, it’s one of those areas that we think we can all tackle ourselves. But when you see landscaped areas that have had design input from a professional, it can be amazing what a difference it makes to how the garden and outdoor areas function and feel – both in the daytime, and at night.  So, I’m really excited to be sitting down with Luke Jones of LARC Collective.  LARC Collective formed in 2012, when Luke returned from a year-long adventure. Experiencing the extreme landscapes of the Mexican desert, freezing waters of New Jersey and rocky mountains of Canada from the solace of a van - he became acutely aware of space and thus space-saving solutions.   LARC Collective specialise in what they call “unique solution-based design”. This means that they listen carefully to clients' needs to collaboratively create with these objectives in mind.  They work in a range of project types, including commercial, multi-residential and single residential.   Their work has been published in Inside Out magazine, and they have this fantastic collaborative approach to all their work.  Luke is actually based near me, and connecting with him recently is a funny story. See Luke and I actually worked in the same office about 17 years ago. When I worked for Arkhefield in Brisbane, we shared an office with a Landscape Architecture practice that Luke worked with. It was called Stephen Pate Landscape Architects – or SPLAT for short. Arkhefield and SPLAT teams would often all have morning tea together, do Xmas parties together and we also enjoyed working together on certain projects.  I was at a friend’s birthday dinner recently, and was introduced to Luke – who now sports a beard – and he was keen to hear about how my hubby runs our property as Luke has recently bought one of his own in the hinterland.   He looked familiar, but I couldn’t work out why. And then Luke remembered me from Arkhefield before I recognised him through his beard, but had this hilarious experience of thinking “Oh my gosh that’s Luke!” (and pulling from my memory the image of his clean-shaven face!)  Luke himself has over 15 years of experience in various Landscape Architectural practices. He’s worked on a huge range of projects of all scales.   It is with great pleasure that I sit down with Luke to talk about the role of the Landscape Architect, and his tips on how to get the most from working with one, plus answers to some of the key questions you may have about the landscaping component of your project.  This is about the WHO, the WHAT, the WHEN and the WHY of using a Landscape Architect for your renovation or building project.   Our “Get it Right” podcast partner for Season 4 is COLORBOND® steel and their Matt range.  COLORBOND® steel Matt is a great choice for creating a stunning, sophisticated and subtle look for your home. With a beautiful and neutral look, it has an elegance I know you’ll love, and diffuses light for a soft, natural, textured finish.   And not only does COLORBOND® steel Matt look gorgeous … It’s also durable, strong, 100% recyclable, high tech, tested and designed for the Australian climate, a choice for bushfire zones, able to give your home a contemporary and sophisticated feel, AND has 50 years of history behind it as a brand.  Head to www.colorbond.com/undercoverarchitect for more info.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we’ll learn all about how a structural engineer will help you in your project, and why you need one.  Josh Neale is a Structural Engineer. He’s also the NSW Office Manager and Structural Project Engineer for Westera Partners.  Westera Partners is a highly respected Australian consulting engineering firm that has been practicing on the Gold Coast since 1981, Brisbane since 1998 and Northern New South Wales since 2009, in both structural engineering and civil engineering.   The company has extensive experience residential housing, higher density projects such as townhouses, and apartment buildings … right through to factories, warehouses, aged care facilities, retail, office buildings and schools.  Westera Partners seek to provide educated and informed feedback to minimise construction costs and reduce construction times. Their service ensures every project is designed or supervised by a senior engineer with over ten years experience. So they are approachable, reliable and experts in their field.  Josh himself has 16 years designing diverse structural engineering projects. His special fields include the design of medium density and complex architectural housings, resort structures, complex and luxury housing, renovations to existing structures and various commercial projects.  Josh has a thorough knowledge of timber framing, steel work, concrete and masonry structures, with a particular interest in sustainable design. He provides consultancy services to architects, builders and developers regarding structural optimisation, cost effective materiel planning and construction techniques. Josh prides himself on presenting his clients with creative and economic solutions while maintaining a high attention to detail.   A structural engineer becomes a key part of your team when renovating or building your home. The structural design of your home – basically how it stays standing, and doesn’t move too much, deflect or fall down over time – is an important part of its longevity. And a big part of your budget can be spent on the structure of your home. So being efficient with it, and it being well integrated with the overall design, is necessary in getting it right.   It’s fantastic to get Josh’s help in explaining more about how structural engineers can work with you, your designer and your builder, to help your project overall.   And he’s also going to help us understand about some of the other information that’s helpful in your structural design.  This is about the WHO, the WHAT, the WHEN and the WHY of using a Structural Engineer for your renovation or building project.    Our “Get it Right” podcast partner for Season 4 is COLORBOND® steel and their Matt range.  COLORBOND® steel Matt is a great choice for creating a stunning, sophisticated and subtle look for your home. With a beautiful and neutral look, it has an elegance I know you’ll love, and diffuses light for a soft, natural, textured finish.   And not only does COLORBOND® steel Matt look gorgeous … It’s also durable, strong, 100% recyclable, high tech, tested and designed for the Australian climate, a choice for bushfire zones, able to give your home a contemporary and sophisticated feel, AND has 50 years of history behind it as a brand.  Head to www.colorbond.com/undercoverarchitect for more info  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The requirements for working with a Town Planner, when you’ll need one and what you’ll need one for, will vary from state to state, suburb to suburb and house to house. However, there are some key consistencies to know, and ways they can make your journey simpler overall. So listen carefully for tips for your project.  Let me introduce Nuala Dewhurst.  Nuala grew up in the Blue Mountains west of Sydney and after living and working in Sydney and Broome WA, she moved back to the mountains and has raised her 4 kids there.  Nuala decided on a career in town planning after getting sick of the lack of pram ramps she experienced as a young mum in the suburbs. She’s been in the industry now for over 20 years.  With extensive experience in the Blue Mountains, Nuala specialises in character and heritage assessments and preparing Statements of Environmental Effects. These are a required document when you lodge a Development Application in with Councils in NSW, and whilst I’ve seen some homeowners have a crack at writing these reports themselves – or use other consultants, such as their designer, to write them – my recommendation is it’s a job best done by a Town Planner. And Nuala will explain in more detail why.  Nuala has worked for State and local government and has always been passionate about the way our communities work. Her career has included assessing proposals for development and preparing city wide plans. She has worked as a town planner in local government for over 15 years before moving to consultancy planning. So she’s worked both sides of the desk – in assessing applications inside council, and in making applications for her clients’ projects. It’s a great set of skills to have – as someone who’s worked on the inside can often provide great insight into how to get your project approved.   Nuala has now established her own business - Griffin Planning. She and I actually met when a client of mine brought me a preliminary planning report she’d commissioned Nuala to prepare on the block of land she planned to build on. I was so impressed with how comprehensive it was, and how much information it gave me in order to design a home for this block, I connected with Nuala. She was also kind enough to attend my last Sydney Workshop and assist attendees with queries they had around Council approvals and Council rules.  It’s great to sit down with Nuala Dewhurst and talk about the role of the Town Planner. I think you’ll learn a lot, wherever your project is located.   This is about the WHO, the WHAT, the WHEN and the WHY of using a Town Planner for your renovation or building project. Listen to the podcast now.  Our “Get it Right” podcast partner for Season 4 is COLORBOND® steel and their Matt range.  COLORBOND® steel Matt is a great choice for creating a stunning, sophisticated and subtle look for your home. With a beautiful and neutral look, it has an elegance I know you’ll love, and diffuses light for a soft, natural, textured finish.   And not only does COLORBOND® steel Matt look gorgeous … It’s also durable, strong, 100% recyclable, high tech, tested and designed for the Australian climate, a choice for bushfire zones, able to give your home a contemporary and sophisticated feel, AND has 50 years of history behind it as a brand.  Head to www.colorbond.com/undercoverarchitect for more info   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we’ll be diving into the role of Building Designer. Aaron Wailes is a Brisbane-based licensed Building Designer, with over 15 years industry experience.    Now, Aaron is a friend and colleague I’ve known for many, many years.   Aaron and I first met at Mirvac over a decade ago. When 5 colleagues and I set up our architectural practice, DC8 Studio, Aaron was our first crew member.    And, Aaron and I have continued to partner each other to deliver projects in our respective businesses. In fact, if you’ve checked out the Project Diary on the UA blog, where we’re following the renovation of a Queenslander cottage, you’ll see Aaron was responsible for the documentation and on site management of the project.   Aaron set up AWBD – or Aaron Wailes Building Design in 2009. He and his wife had been living and working overseas in the United Kingdom for some time, and they returned to Brisbane to set up AWBD Design Consultants.  Aaron is incredibly passionate about good design. He’s worked across many different project types, from retirement living, housing developments, apartments and office buildings … both here in Australia, Europe and the Middle East.  One of the things I love about how Aaron works is the way his practical construction knowledge gets brought together with his design skills. When you work with a designer, you want them mentally building whilst they design. So, what I mean by this, is that as they’re drawing lines in a design concept, they’re also thinking about the constructability, the structural design … how all these things come together to meet your brief and your budget. Aaron works in this way with his clients to help deliver them great results.   Aaron is also a gun on Revit, which is a 3D computer documentation tool. So, Aaron will ‘build’ the project inside the computer, before it gets built on site. It’s a great way to uncover and anticipate any issues at the drawing stage – which in turn manages your risk on site during construction. And whenever a designer works with you in 3D, it helps you see the solution before the solution is built, and have that design vision communicated to you.  It’s great to sit down with Aaron to talk about the role of the building designer, and his tips on how to find one, how they’ll help and the way to get the best in working with one.   This is about the WHO, the WHAT, the WHEN and the WHY of using a building designer for your renovation or building project.   Listen to the podcast now.  Our “Get it Right” podcast partner for Season 4 is COLORBOND® steel and their Matt range.  COLORBOND® steel Matt is a great choice for creating a stunning, sophisticated and subtle look for your home. With a beautiful and neutral look, it has an elegance I know you’ll love, and diffuses light for a soft, natural, textured finish.   And not only does COLORBOND® steel Matt look gorgeous … It’s also durable, strong, 100% recyclable, high tech, tested and designed for the Australian climate, a choice for bushfire zones, able to give your home a contemporary and sophisticated feel, AND has 50 years of history behind it as a brand.  Head to www.colorbond.com/undercoverarchitect for more info   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

So we’re in for a treat in this episode. The first interview in Season 04 is with Shaun Lockyer of Shaun Lockyer Architects.   Now, if you’re based in Brisbane and planning your renovation or new home, chances are you’ve already come across Shaun’s work. It’s prolific and award winning and a huge body of new and renovated homes all over Brisbane – and in fact, in other parts of Queensland and Australia … and even overseas!   Shaun Lockyer Architects (or SLa) has a huge following on social media, an enviable list of clients, projects and awards, and a great reputation for beautiful, sustainable and efficient design solutions that add value to the lives of their inhabitants.  Shaun himself has over 20 years of international design experience, including four years as an associate at SAOTA in South Africa, and nine years as Director and Partner at Arkhefield in Brisbane, QLD.   In fact that’s where Shaun and I first met … in 2001, when we started at Arkhefield, 2 weeks apart from each other. Both fairly new to Brisbane, we sat opposite each other and – as Shaun reminded me the last time I saw him - we actually had to be separated at one point because we spoke too much and made too much noise. We’ve been friends since that time.   Personally, I’ve watched with huge admiration and pride, as my friend has built an extraordinary career with such commitment, incredible client service and sheer hard work. In the early days when we were at Arkhefield, he would always talk ad infinitum about his love of designing individual homes: the opportunity to work closely with clients in a trusting relationship, the love of crafting a container for their family lives, and exploring space and volume, light and materials that would surround them each day. He’s always been passionate about residential architecture.   In 2009, he started his own practice, Shaun Lockyer Architects. This practice engages in the design and delivery of bespoke architectural homes for private clients who value a collaborative and transparent design process. Each commission employs a versatility and passion that transcends scale and budget.  The outcomes of all the work at SLa are a reflection of the extraordinary efforts of the team which is comprised of Shaun Lockyer, Jen Negline, Lucy Hyndman, David Gockel, Michael Ford, Ash Hughes, Adam Laming, Kevin Li, Lyle Mitrovich, Katy Roberts, Alex Kean, Ivy Verlaat  They’ve won a mountain of awards … Shaun himself has been recognized for the contribution he’s made to architectural education – and he’s as committed to his role as an industry mentor as he is to being an architect.  It is with great pleasure that I sit down with Shaun to talk about the role of the architect, and his tips on how to get the most from working with one, plus answers to some of the key questions we, as architects, often hear from homeowners about getting us involved.   This is about the WHO, the WHAT, the WHEN and the WHY of using an architect for your renovation or building project. So, let’s get into the episode.  Listen to the podcast now.  Our “Get it Right” podcast partner for Season 4 is COLORBOND® steel and their Matt range.  COLORBOND® steel Matt is a great choice for creating a stunning, sophisticated and subtle look for your home. With a beautiful and neutral look, it has an elegance I know you’ll love, and diffuses light for a soft, natural, textured finish.    And not only does COLORBOND® steel Matt look gorgeous … It’s also durable, strong, 100% recyclable, high tech, tested and designed for the Australian climate, a choice for bushfire zones, able to give your home a contemporary and sophisticated feel, AND has 50 years of history behind it as a brand.  Head to www.colorbond.com/undercoverarchitect for more info   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you confused about who you’ll need on your team to renovate or build your home?  Homeowners often tell me they are. They’re not sure who to speak to first, what costs to expect from everyone, how to know if they’re finding the right people, and when to get them on board.  And sometimes they also don’t understand why they’ll need a specific professional.  I’m not talking about tradespeople here. This is about all the various roles and professionals you may have on board up to the point you commence construction. And then some you need to keep on board, and some you don’t – whilst you build your home.  Some professionals are essential. For example you legally require them to get your project finished, or they’re necessary, because they perform a required role as part of you getting your project built or renovated.   And other professionals will be a choice. For example, you might get an architect, a building designer, or a draftsperson to design your home. Or you may choose to design it yourself. Now – of course, that’s not something I recommend – but it is possible!  And it’s important, when setting your budget, that you have an understanding of who you’ll need, why you’ll need them, what they do and will charge for it, and when they need to come on board.  In this episode, I go through a list of professionals you may need for your project – and outline the role that each performs. I also help you with recommendations about where to start, and how to assess their fees.  Listen to the podcast now.  Our “Get it Right” podcast partner for Season 4 is COLORBOND® steel and their Matt range.  COLORBOND® steel Matt is a great choice for creating a stunning, sophisticated and subtle look for your home. With a beautiful and neutral look, it has an elegance I know you’ll love, and diffuses light for a soft, natural, textured finish.   And not only does COLORBOND® steel Matt look gorgeous … It’s also durable, strong, 100% recyclable, high tech, tested and designed for the Australian climate, a choice for bushfire zones, able to give your home a contemporary and sophisticated feel, AND has 50 years of history behind it as a brand.  Head to www.colorbond.com/undercoverarchitect for more info.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Season 4 is called “Know Your Team”, and in this season, we’ll be exploring the roles of the various professionals that can help you when you’re designing, building or renovating your home.  Often homeowners tell me that they’re confused about who they need to get on their team and which person or role they hire first. And this is the thing about the construction industry … there are loads of different specialisations and professional roles. To be honest, it can be confusing to know:  who does what  who is necessary and compulsory, vs who you might feel you need help from  who is really going to help you achieve what you want to do  what these different professionals will all cost  where to find them  how to make sure they’re a good fit for you and your needs  when you need to get them on board  and why you need to get them involved in your project  So that’s what Season 4 is all about.   Regardless of where in Australia – or in fact the world – you might be listening to this podcast, there are going to be some amazing tips and information for you in this season. My guests are all incredibly experienced, and have been amazingly generous in providing their expertise and knowledge as we talk about their role in renovations and new builds.  I can’t wait to get this season kicked off. So, join me next time for an overview of the many and varied roles you can have on your project – whether you’re building or renovating your home.  And then from the following episode, we start the interviews. There are 10 episodes where I speak to the 10 key professionals you are most likely to come into contact with, need the help of, or want to consider for your new home or renovation project.  I worked out that, between all my guests, there’s over 160 years of experience in the residential industry of design, building and renovating … so this an extraordinary brains trust I’m tapping into!   I’m really hoping this Season 4 helps you understand more about the various professions that can assist you with bringing your home dreams to life. And their key tips on getting it right in your project.  Listen to the podcast now.  Our “Get it Right” podcast partner for Season 4 is COLORBOND® steel and their Matt range.  COLORBOND® steel Matt is a great choice for creating a stunning, sophisticated and subtle look for your home. With a beautiful and neutral look, it has an elegance I know you’ll love, and diffuses light for a soft, natural, textured finish.   And not only does COLORBOND® steel Matt look gorgeous … It’s also durable, strong, 100% recyclable, high tech, tested and designed for the Australian climate, a choice for bushfire zones, able to give your home a contemporary and sophisticated feel, AND has 50 years of history behind it as a brand.   Head to www.colorbond.com/undercoverarchitect for more info   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are lots of mistakes that I see homeowners make when it comes to building and renovating their homes. Mistakes that cost them extra time, money and stress along the journey.  Some of the main mistakes – the most stress-inducing mistakes – come from how homeowners manage their communication. So, I’m referring to their communication with their team, with establishing their vision and in managing the elements of the project along the way. I have 3 key mistakes to share with you so you know what to avoid in your renovation or new home. These mistakes relate to how you communicate, and what you might avoid communicating – to the detriment of your project. What are these mistakes? They are: #1: Getting lost in the weeds #2: Giving accusations not feedback #3: Hanging on for too long. Listen to the podcast now for more information on these mistakes, and learn how they can really cause problems on your project. I also share critical ways you can avoid making these mistakes yourself. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We continue our interlude - examining how to use communication as the powerful tool it can be, to get it right in our renovation or new build. In the last episode, I took you through the first 3 Communication Tools you can use in your project to help it go more smoothly, and achieve success overall. Do you remember what they were? They were: Your team, Your brief, and Your language. In this episode, I’ll take you through 4 more Communication Tools, and explain how to use them effectively as you move towards the building stage, and during construction. These 4 Communication Tools are: Your quotes Your legals Your project management Your result Listen to the podcast now to learn more about these last 4 Communication tools so you can get it right. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I want to take a moment to deep dive into one key area that can be the cause of loads of challenges in your renovation or new build.  I’m not overstating it, when I tell you that this one thing can be at the heart of most building disputes, errors and costly mistakes. In fact, a lot of serious litigation cases can be credited to this one thing failing or missing.  So what is it? This one crucial tool?  It’s  … COMMUNICATION.  When it’s done well, it helps projects run smoothly, achieve great outcomes and create homes that are a joy to live in.  And when it’s not. Well, it’s how projects unravel, money and time is wasted, loads of stress is caused as well, and the whole experience of renovating or building made awful.  When you build or renovate your home, there are so many moving parts to pull together. Different team members, different ideas, decisions, processes … boxes to tick, rules to satisfy, budgets to meet …  And in the middle of all of that will be you, and anyone else in your family who gets a say, figuring out what you want from your finished home – and how to bring it to life.  That’s the sometimes-hilarious-sometimes-frustrating thing isn’t it? Not only do you have to get it right in communicating your vision to those helping you design and build it. You also have to get on the same page as your partner, or your family members, in actually creating that vision in the first place!  No wonder it can get hairy sometimes.  So, in this episode and the next, I’ll take you through some of the most important elements of communication for your project, and how to use them successfully to get great results, and save yourself headaches along the way.   And then in the third episode of this interlude, I’ll share some of the key mistakes I see people make, so you can avoid those too.   What are the first 3 Communication tools? They are:  Your team  Your brief  Your language  Listen to the podcast now to learn more about these first 3 Communication tools so you can get it right.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As you begin to design and plan your new home or renovation, chances are you’ll be:  looking at the spaces you want to create  how you want to wrap them up (their size, shape, etc )  and what you want to put in them (finishes, fixtures, furnishings, etc)  When you start to allocate your budget to these dreamed and imagined spaces, finishes and fixtures, it can be a surprise to see how quickly it gets consumed.   And often, in my experience, the reaction can often be “But where is all the money going?”  There are many things required to create a working, finished new or renovated home, and they can chew up a significant chunk of your budget – and yet be almost invisible in the finished product.   So in this episode, we go through the main areas where money can disappear in any project, so you can manage them in yours. I share the main hazards to be aware of, and how you can protect your budget in each of these areas.   Of course, the ones I’m listing here are not exhaustive – the best way to manage your budget is to manage all of it!    However, I’ve seen these areas regularly surprise homeowners, and end up costing them far more than they intended.   I take you through 4 main areas that can swallow your budget for a seemingly invisible result. I also share key tips to help you protect your budget in these areas – and overall.  Money gobbler 1:Services (especially electrical and plumbing)  Money gobbler 2:Excavation and retaining  Money gobbler 3:Your home’s skeleton (the structure)  Money gobbler 4:Extra living expenses during your project   And one last word on this …   I see some homeowners behave like it’s a foregone conclusion that their project will blow budget and timelines. Renovating and building doesn’t have to be that way.  The renovating and building journey is not a one-step process. It’s a step-by-step journey of discovery and selection. Sometimes you only have 2 options. Sometimes you have 200. Sometimes you may feel like you’re crawling, and at other times it feels like big jumps towards the finish line.  The most straight-forward way to avoid nasty surprises on your reno or new home journey is to start with good information and a reliable team. Then you can also work to make informed choices as you go. Checking and adjusting along the way. What did we say in an earlier episode? ADAPT AND INNOVATE!!  Revisiting your design, your budget and your timeline at each of these stages will help you do this, and make the best choices for you … your budget, your site and your life. That’s the way you create the perfect home for you.   Listen to the podcast now to learn more about these 4 main areas, and how to protect your budget, and manage your risk overall.  This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED.  Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.   Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who I’ve personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in my own projects, and in client projects.    And so I’ve been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you’ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.    Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now!   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the things I often see occurs is that homeowners will be so diligent during their early phases of their projects. Total ninjas when juggling competing demands, sorting their priorities, hunting down bargains, making strong decisions so they meet their budget.  And then construction will start.    They’ll head to site and start seeing progress. And then they’ll start changing things. Or they’ll see a material or fixture somewhere, fall in love with it, and have to have it – even though it’s more than what they’d originally budgeted for, or already selected.  This might be because construction feels like the last point at which you can be sure you’ve got it right. Your last opportunity to ensure you’ve made the best choices, because once it’s in, it’s permanent and you’ll be living with it.  And perhaps too, it’s because it can be hard to visualise things when they’re all on paper. You’re looking at lines on a page that represents rooms and spaces and joinery. Often homeowners will walk on site and say “Oh, is THAT what it looks like” like it’s the first time they’ve actually realised.   When you make changes on site: be it because you’ve not understood how something actually was designed … or you see an alternative product or material you would rather use … or you change your mind about anything you’ve previously selected or included in your design … these changes rarely save you money.    More often than not, they cost MORE in time and money.  And it’s in these changes that homeowners can blow their budget. They’re spending a little extra here and there. All those ‘little extras’ add up over time, get a builder’s margin added onto them, and can end up being a big budget blowout.   In this episode, I share the ways you can spend your budget wisely, and stay on track for your project, as well as the tools you can use. I go into detail on these three specific strategies:  Strategy 1: Start how you intend to finish … and finish how you started  Strategy 2: Monitor your progress – in time and money  Strategy 3: Be realistic about your own abilities  Following these strategies will help you to manage the spending of your budget with the same discipline you set it with. And ultimately that will help you stay on track in your renovation or new build, and deliver the finished result without huge financial headaches.   Listen to the podcast now to learn more about these strategies and stay on track with your spending!   Links mentioned in the podcast  Microsoft now has a template you can use to set up your budget in excel  https://www.microsoft.com/australia/madewithoffice/article/how-to-keep-track-of-your-diy-renovation-in-excel.aspx  Pocketbook is one of my favourite apps for streaming your bank account and tracking / categorising transactions  https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/pocketbook-personal-finance-expense-tracker/id653330894?mt=8  Renovation Budget Tracker ($4.50)  https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/renovation-budget-tracker/id381991960?mt=8   AMP Budget Tracker  https://www.tracker.qandamp.com.au/  Tom’s Planner  https://www.tomsplanner.com/  LED Lighting and how to get it right  http://undercoverarchitect.com/what-is-led-lighting/   This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED.  Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.  Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who I’ve personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in my own projects, and in client projects.   And so I’ve been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you’ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.   Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now!  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When homeowners find out – often with total shock – that their expectations for their renovation or new home project don’t match the reality of its cost, a readjustment has to occur for them to keep going on their journey.  The challenge is that many homeowners often wait far too long to get to this point of readjustment.   They hop on a train towards their destination (that is, their new or renovated home), without checking that they’re on the right train. It’s only several stops along their trip that they check, and discover they’re on an express train to somewhere they didn’t mean to go.   So, how do you avoid this? How do you avoid the hurt of derailing a train (ie your project) and it ending in disaster?  Simple. Get your expectations meeting reality as early as possible. If you can readjust early, then you can hop on the best train for you.  Part of this is working out the cost of your renovation or new home. Homeowners often feel this is a one-step process, however it’s definitely not.  This is how Amelia recommends you source costing information on your new home or renovation project … and when. And then manage your budget and spending along the way.  There’s several steps, and in this podcast, we move through them one by one …   Step #1: At the very start  Step #2: To help you choose the best design concept to move forward with  Step #3: Before you lodge for your Council Approval (DA, Development Application, Development Approval)  Step #4: Before you get Building Approval   Step #5: Before you sign a contract with a builder  Step #6: During the construction project  Step #7: Before making the final payment  If there’s anything you take away from this season of the podcast, Amelia would love it to be this …  Determining what your project will cost is an incremental process.   You set your budget at the beginning, and you keep testing and adjusting as you go. Providing more information, resolving more detail, and finding out cost estimates along the way.  Amelia has said it before, but it’s literally like moving through a funnel … one that gets narrower as you go … and moves you towards where you want to get to as you sift and filter all the info you need along the way.  Listen to the podcast to learn more about these steps, how to get costing information, and who to talk to.    Links mentioned in the podcast  Definition of Provision Sums and PC Items: http://www.build.com.au/prime-cost-and-provisional-sum-traps  This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED.  Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.  Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Amelia has personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.   And so Amelia has been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you’ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.    Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now!  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s a saying that goes something like this …  “A new home or renovation will always cost twice as much, and take twice as long, as you expect it to”  It’s usually given as a warning to those embarking on their project. And often it’s handed out at school gates or BBQs or in the workplace … where well-meaning friends and colleagues who’ve been through a project of their own, share learnings from their own experience.  However, in Amelia's opinion, there’s a big issue with this piece of advice. What she actually finds is this:  Homeowners in fact start  their project expecting that it will take half as long, and cost half as much as it actually will.  Amelia dooesn't know how expectations and reality got so far apart. Perhaps it’s a diet of reality TV programs and big shed hardware stores.  So, let’s look at what can happen when you realise your budget is unrealistic, and how to get yourself back on track so you can keep going on your project.   There are four main areas where Amelia see homeowners run into trouble and discover their budgets are unrealistic for what they’re seeking to build or renovate.   These 4 main areas are really categorised by red flags, or warning signs, so Amelia's going to talk about them in that way so you can keep them on your radar for your project.   These 4 main warnings or red flags are:  Looking for magic pills  Not understanding the impact of your decisions (and this extends to those you’re working with not advising you either)  Not listening to warning from your professional team  Not tracking your budget  So, is your budget unrealistic for your project vision? Listen to the podcast now to get help on what to do if it is – and keep you moving forward towards your finished home.   This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED.  Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.  Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Ameilia personally has had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.   And so Amelia has been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you’ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.   Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now!  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you’re first starting out on your project, you’re generally looking for a designer or a builder (or both). And ultimately you’re trying to find someone you can trust, and who is a good fit for your project.  It can be tricky to know how much to say, and whether to admit you don’t know what you’re doing. This episode is all about how to have that first conversation with your potential designer or builder.   Amelia shares what goes wrong when you don’t choose well, and what can go right. And she also gives key tips for how to speak with them when first on the hunt for yours.  Amelia thinks that when you understand what can go wrong, and what it looks like when you get it right, it helps you be more alert and aware in your search for your team at the outset.  When you find the right designer and builder for you, these two professionals can be the ones to facilitate a great outcome for your project, and help you create a home you love to live in.  Finding the right designer for you:  What can go wrong:  Not be able to communicate effectively  You’ll take a long time to reach a design resolution  The designer will overspend your budget and timelines  What happens when you get it right:  Process overall will be simplified  It will also be more efficient  You’ll have more certainty around cost and time   Tips for how to have the first conversation with your potential designer:  Speak about your budget in ranges  Let them know what the budget needs to include  Look to designers with demonstrated experience in projects similar to yours   And finding the right builder for you:   What can go wrong:  You expect your builder to be a designer as well  Communication breakdowns occur  Poor management and quality in your project   What happens when you get it right:  The builder is efficient, polite and organised  Site is a great place to be  Honest and open communication skills  Tips for how to have the first conversation with your potential builder:  Review the language you use  Check previous experience  Check credentials and licenses  When it goes well with your design and builder – and it can – your reno or new home project can be enjoyable. Even when unexpected challenges come up, having the right team around you can make those experiences so much simpler to tackle.   And relying on your team to carry you, support you and share your journey, can help you feel confident that all the effort, time and money will deliver the home – and lifestyle – you’re hoping for.  This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED.  Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.  Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Amelia has personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.   And so Amelia has been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you’ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.   Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now!  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amelia wants to take you through some of the early mistakes she sees homeowners make. Ones that can cause budget blowouts down the track – before you’ve even begun your renovation or new build. These are the components that homeowners can overlook completely. And in doing so, they miss the opportunity it gives them to be strategic in their project. And, they potentially set themselves up for extra costs or cancelled projects. Amelia recommends that you wrap your head, and your budget, around these things as early in your project as you can. Because doing it early can impact the choices you make about how you renovate or build your home. And about how you create your home design. So what are these early components that get missed by many? Well, if you’re renovating, it how you deal with what needs to occur to your home as part of its maintenance and upkeep anyway. And if you’re building, it's how you deal with what needs to happen to prepare your land for a new home. In this episode, Amelia explains how to use early information in your renovation project to impact what and how you renovate. And to bring clarity to your overall budget, and strategic thinking to your decisions and choices. And Amelia also explains how to investigate the land you’ll be building on, to see what it can tell you about how to build, what to build and how to save money doing it. Listen to the episode, as Amelia shares what can go wrong, and what you should do instead. This information can help you make those first steps in your project far more confidently. And they can prevent big budget blowouts that derail and kill projects altogether. This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED. Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project. Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Amelia has personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects. And so she's been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you’ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order. Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now! FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are 5 top money saving ideas Amelia hears homeowners use to explain how they’ll save big money in their reno or new build. In this episode, Amelia share why these can be in fact MYTHS. Huge mistakes that can actually cost you far more in the long run. So what are these money saving ideas? They are … Money Saving Idea #1:“I can get cheap tiles … or paint … or timber … via a friend / family member etc, so I’m going to save loads of money” Money Saving Idea #2:“My friend / family member is a builder / electrician / plumber and will be doing the job for us at cost, or for free”. Money Saving Idea #3:“I’ll save money because I’m going to buy all my fixtures and finishes separate to the builder's contract. I’ll be able to find bargains, and avoid the builder’s margin on these items.” Money Saving Idea #4:“I’m going to project manage my renovation or new build.” Money Saving Idea #5:“I’m going to do my project as an Owner-Builder.” For each of these 5 Money Saving Ideas, Amelia shares what can and does go terribly wrong. She also shares her main tips for each one, to help you avoid the pitfalls. And, she also shares with you what one big key is to saving money on your project. If you’ve been thinking of any of these 5 Money Saving Ideas as the reason you’ll save money on your renovation or new home … or it being the reason you can actually afford your project, then listen to this episode now. Learn why these 5 Money Saving Ideas can actually be myths and cost you far more in time, money and stress. This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED. Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project. Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Amelia has personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects. And so Amelia has been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you’ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order. Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now! FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Often when you’re starting to think about your project, and trying to determine the budget you need to set aside for it, you don’t to have to many public conversations about it. This is for a few reasons. One might be that you just feel clueless. You don’t know who to start speaking to, or the questions to ask. And in feeling like that, you may be worried that you’ll look foolish. Say something you’re not supposed to, or give professionals and builders information that gives away too much. It may be too that you don’t want to give too much away too soon. Show your hand and then be at the mercy of trusting everyone to not be taking advantage of you. Amelia knows that one thing that many homeowners she speaks to fear, is all the unknowns. And whenever you’re in that kind of territory, feeling out of your comfort zone, it’s can be a hard place to be. And to admit that you don’t really know what you’re doing whilst you’re there. Amelia would like to say this to you, though, if this is how you are feeling. You aren’t supposed to know what you’re doing – especially if this is the first time you’ve renovated or built your home. However, you’re sitting at home, and you’re thinking this whole renovation and building thing through. You’ve watched The Block, and House Rules, and Fixer Upper. And you’re thinking, I just want to get a handle on budgets, and how much things cost, before I start bothering anyone, or feeling like I’m wasting anyone’s time. So, how can you do it? Let Amelia give you some places to start. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Finding out what your renovation or new home will cost you is not a one-step exercise. In fact, in Amelia's experience, the best results come from approaching this question from various angles.   When you work out what your project will cost you in a more holistic way, using several inputs and types of information, you ultimately come up with a much more reliable answer. And can be more confident your project will stay on budget, PLUS create a great outcome for you as a finished home.  So, what does Amelia mean by this?   Over the course of this season, Amelia will be taking you through various strategies you can use to determine what your renovation or new home will cost. And what to do when it’s looking like it will cost more than you want to spend. What information to trust, and what not to. And how to stay informed and involved throughout. Because staying on top of your budget is one key factor to staying in control of your project overall.    So let’s start at the beginning. Where do you start when determining your budget? What are the first steps you can take when trying to work out what it WILL cost you to renovate or build your home. Or more to the point – what it COULD cost you and what it SHOULD cost you.   Amelia thinks that’s the key … we’re really looking at three costs here when it comes to setting your budget. What it COULD cost you.  What it SHOULD cost you.  And what it WILL cost you.  And each of those three figures might be entirely different from each other, and also impacted by many other factors.   In this episode, Amelia gives you tips to get started on determining each of these ‘costs’. And she also talks about cost vs value, and how you can use it to gain great clarity for your project.  Listen to the episode now, and learn where to start when determining your budget for your renovation or new build. It’s an important first step in any project starting well.   This season, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED.  Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.  Kiiko LED is founded by Craig Thomas, who Amelia personally had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.   And so Amelia has been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you’ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.   Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now!  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the years Amelia has been working with homeowners, she has often them asked this question …    “What are you most afraid of when renovating or building your home? What makes you most nervous, causes the most stress and brings about that feeling of overwhelm?”   The answer to this gets delivered in different ways. Sometimes with tears, and sometimes with hearty chuckles. Sometimes with quiet whispers like it’s something they don’t want to admit. But it always (and Amelia means ALWAYS) the response is similar.   There are a few main fears, and this one generally jumps out first. This is what you tell Amelia:  You’re nervous about what it will cost you to renovate or build or home  Can you afford to do what you want to do, this dream you have in your head (and heart) about your future home  How can you know you can start and won’t blow your budget along the way, and   How do you avoid being taken advantage of due to your lack of knowledge … being ripped off … being made a fool of … or making expensive mistakes.  These fears are understandable and totally justifiable. For every story of a successful renovation or building project, there’s a disaster story as well. One where homeowners have overspent by huge amounts sometimes. And we’re often talking about sums of money we’re borrowing from the bank, or have spent a long time saving or earning.   And, of course this fear is real because when you stuff it up at this scale, the consequences can be far reaching … financially, mentally, emotionally. It can impact so many areas of your lifestyle and your life – and those that you share it with.  In this podcast episode, Amelia shares the 3 main animal types (!) that homeowners can turn into when navigating this fear during their projects. And what goes wrong when they do.  And, she also asks you to flip your thinking about your project budget … in a way that can fundamentally change the journey, and the outcome you create in your finished home.  Listen to the episode now, and you’ll hear more about what’s coming up in this Season 3 of the “Get it Right” podcast, and how it will help you if you’re building or renovating.  And, for the first time ever, Undercover Architect has a podcast partner: Kiiko LED.  Kiiko LED is customisable, DIY, LED strip lighting, that you can order online to your specifications, for your needs and project.  Perhaps you’ve been looking for that integrated, designed lighting solution, and found it really hard to access as a one-off for your project. It’s expensive to get made to order, or requires your electrician to do a bunch of work on site to make it happen.  Previously this level of customisation and design was only accessible to those in the trade. Kiiko instead brings custom linear LED to you, from their headquarters in Brisbane, Australia.   You can order online via the Kiiko website. So you pick your design, your length, your LED light type. If you need help with designing your LED strip lighting solution, you can always jump on the phone or email to one of their team too.     Kiiko is founded by Craig Thomas, who Amelia personally has had the pleasure of working with for over 12 years now, in her own projects, and in client projects.    And so Amelia has been able to organise with Kiiko a fantastic UA Community only offer. If you head to their website at www.kiiko.com.au/undercoverarchitect you’ll be able to access a $25 discount to use on your first order.    Check it out, and start building your Kiiko LED strip lighting now!  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our homes’ front entries and front gardens are how our homes present themselves to the world.   This episode brings us to the front of your home – which is usually the most public face of it. It’s actually the side of your home that most people see. It presents your chosen aesthetic, personality or style to the street.   And it’s usually the first thing you see as you drive up each day and think “I’m home!”   Amelia has seen homeowners work very hard to decide how they want this side of their home to look and feel. The style to do it in. Design, materials and colour scheme.   In this episode, she specifically talks about the front entry of your home, and the design of your front garden. And she talks about some big design concepts to help you determine how to create the best front entry design for your place. So it’s a chunky episode, but packed full of lots of useful ideas for your place.   Amelia takes you through the four F’s to help you think about what will work for your new home or renovation. She also shares 3 mistakes to avoid, and 3 key design tips to consider for your project.   The top 3 mistakes Amelia shares are:   Mistake #1: is hiding your front entry from the street  Mistake #2: is not putting ‘eyes’ on the street  Mistake #3: is to ignore your front garden as a valuable outdoor space for your home  There are also lots of design tips. Here are the top 3:  Design tip #1: use different levels to achieve privacy and specialness for your home  Design tip #2: be aware of whether your design works with a front door or not  Design tip #3: separate where people and cars move  And, because this is the last episode of Season 2, Amelia shares some final tips to remember as you design your home.   Listen to the podcast now, and learn how to get it right.   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is about your outdoor living spaces … so your alfresco, or deck, or patio, or terrace, or outdoor room. Amelia will also be talking about swimming pools.    In so many parts of the world – and especially here in Australia – we’re blessed with a great climate. This helps us really expand the interior of our homes into the garden around them. So let Amelia share some great tips with you to get it right in planning your outdoor living spaces.  Whether you live in a large home on a big block of land, a compact home on an urban block, or in an apartment, this much is true. Having a great outdoor living space can do wonders for how your home feels.  Adding a deck on, or improving your outdoor area to create a space to live outdoors and entertain, is one of the more common renovations that people do to their home. And getting it right when you’re building new is one of the keys to helping your home flow, and to making the most of your home and your site.  Many places around the world, including Australia, have a great climate where outdoor living is a big part of enjoying our homes. Maximising the use of our outdoor spaces is a great way to expand the experience of your home – to make it feel larger and more spacious – and help you feel better in it.  Research shows that connection with nature is fundamental to our wellbeing too. So it makes sense on lots of levels to create outdoor spaces for your home that are useful, functional and enjoyable to be in.  Amelia takes you through the four F’s to help you think about what will work for your new home or renovation. Amelia also shares 3 mistakes to avoid, and 3 key design tips to consider for your project. And she talks a little about swimming pools to help you if you’re planning one for your place.  The top 3 mistakes Amelia will share are:  Mistake #1: choosing high maintenance materials for your outdoor living spaces  Mistake #2: making the connection to the garden difficult  Mistake #3: thinking that bifold doors are the best way to get a great indoor / outdoor connection  There are also lots of design tips. Here are the top 3:  Design tip #1: provide spaces other than a table to sit at in your outdoor living spaces  Design tip #2: don’t compromise your indoor living spaces to accommodate an outdoor one  Design tip #3: remember to design in privacy   Listen to the podcast now, and learn how to get it right.   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stairs and garages. Whilst it may seem odd to put these two items together, there’s a few things they have in common.   Firstly of course, they don’t need to go into every home. If you’re renovating or building a single-storey house on perfectly flat land, there’s going to be part of this podcast not relevant to you! And not everyone wants to or needs to build a garage.  Secondly, stairs and garages need to be a certain size to actually work – to even be worthwhile including.   And thirdly, and this is probably the most surprising – how they are designed and where they’re located, can be the starting point for the rest of your home design.  So, in this podcast episode, Amelia tackles stairs and garages separately. As Amelia normally does, she takes you through the four F’s. And she also provides you with some mistakes to avoid and design tips to help you get it right.   Amelia's big mistake to avoid with stairs is this:   Not designing the stairs accurately at concept stage. If you fudge the size and layout of them, it can get you into serious trouble as you resolve your design, and don’t have sufficient room for the stairs.  Amelia's big design tip to get it right with stairs is:  Play with the location and design of the staircase and see what it helps you change overall in your home design.  And Amelia's big mistake to avoid with garages is this:   Don’t size them to be too narrow (this happens a lot in new homes, especially project homes). Amelia's big design tip to get it right with garages is:  Be careful about designing your layout so you’re walking from your garage through pantries and other similar spaces to get into your home.   Listen to the podcast for more tips, and also for great information about your garage space (and there’s a bonus in there for carports too!)  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to this episode to learn how to get it right in your study nooks, studies and home offices. Our lives are busy. And whilst we do what we can to bring intention and quiet into them where possible, and focus on one thing at a time … sometimes we are juggling. Often we are juggling. And this seems to be most true in how we balance work and family life in our homes. We find the edges can be a little blurred. So that means that we’re bringing work home. Or we’re building businesses from home. And with kids growing through school and university, they’re also studying at home and needing space to do it. As parents, and often working parents, trying to combine all these activities with everyday family life can be challenging. And it can be critical to give everyone the space and quiet to focus on their work when needed, in order for our homes to work well. So creating spaces and rooms where this work can occur in a semi-uninterrupted way, can help with family sanity overall. Amelia knows personally. She's run businesses from her dining table, and it’s not fun for general family life. So if you’re renovating or building, it can be a simple inclusion to provide a space or room for work in your home, and improve your lifestyle overall. Amelia will start with the four F’s and how they relate to study nooks, studies and home offices. The top 3 mistakes Amelia will share are: Mistake #1: poor furniture planning in the studyMistake #2: forgetting storage and space for all the other things that need to go in a home office or studyMistake #3: forgetting a place for a printer There are also lots of design tips. Here are the top 3: Design tip #1: your power points don’t all need to be down at skirting board heightDesign tip #2: provide seating alternatives to your desk chairDesign tip #3: if sound separation is a big issue for you and working from home, consider extra insulation in your home office. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is all about secondary bedrooms. “Secondary bedrooms” is the terminology Amelia uses to refer to any bedrooms that aren’t the main bedroom. These can include: Nurseries for infant babies and toddlers Kids’ bedrooms, for kids as they grow into their teenage years and beyond Guest accommodation for friends and relatives that may come to stay Bedrooms for elderly family members who may move in at some point – either temporarily or permanently Bedrooms for any other people you may have live in your home – such as a nanny or au pair Of course, Amelia will be sharing the four F’s and how to use them to get it right in these bedrooms. And, she'll also be identifying key mistakes and big design tips to help you design great bedroom spaces. You’ll probably find too that this podcast episode will pose a lot of questions to you. When it comes to family homes, some choices are really personal, and about how you need to live in your home. These choices will be about who lives in your home now, and who might be living in your home in the future. So, Amelia will be taking you through the various things to consider when determining how to include these bedrooms in your home. And she’ll share mistakes to avoid and key design tips for all types of secondary bedrooms. Listen to the podcast now, and learn how to get it right. It’s a chunky episode so Amelia hopes you find it super useful! FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Amelia will be talking about wardrobes, linens, laundries and mudrooms.   She'll also cover walk-in robes and other storage. These spaces can be important to get right for a home to work well, so let’s learn more.   In this episode, Amelia talks about the four Fs upfront and gets through them quite quickly.   Then, she tackles each of these spaces individually, and shares some key mistakes and design tips for each. And in each she talks about where to locate it in your home, and how to connect it to other spaces and rooms so it works as conveniently as possible.  Because convenience is what these spaces are ALL about. When you get it right in these rooms and spaces … when you nail how they work functionally … then it not only assists you in your home. It makes life simpler for everyone, and is a serious sanity saver in family homes.   This is the list of rooms and spaces Amelia talks about in this episode.  Firstly, wardrobes. So these are built-in robes that are a fixed object in a room – and usually a bedroom.    Then there's walk-in robes. These are little (or big) rooms for storing clothing. They’ll sometimes be more like a dressing room, with an ottoman or something similar in the middle.   Next, there's linen cupboards. So these are for storing sheets, towels, blankets, and other types of items required for our beds and our homes. They can also be general storage for other things.  There’s also broom cupboards. These are generally similar to linen cupboards, with less shelving in them, so you can have space for vertical items such as brooms and mops.   Then, Amelia talks about two rooms … mud rooms and laundries. These rooms can be two separate ones in different parts of your home from each other. They can also be right next door to each other, or combined into the same space. Another name for a mudroom is a boot room.   Listen to the podcast now, and learn how to get it right in your wardrobes, linen, laundry and mudroom.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is about the wet areas in our home, namely bathrooms, ensuites and powder rooms.   These are cost-intensive areas in our home. They, as well as our kitchens, will have the highest cost rate in $ / m2 compared with the rest of the home (when looking at your project overall). This is of course because of the electrical, the plumbing, the finishes, and the fixtures in these rooms, all crammed into quite a small area.   These rooms also need to function. In some pretty core and fundamental ways! When these areas aren't arranged well, when elements in them aren't sized appropriately, and when these rooms sit in difficult positions within our homes, they can seriously impact the convenience of daily routines.   In this episode, Amelia gets clear on the terminology used for these rooms, and what generally goes in each of them.    Then, of course, we'll explore the four F's and how they relate to your bathroom, ensuite and powder room.  And Amelia will share 3 mistakes and 3 design tips.   There are some general pieces of advice that apply whether we're considering the bathroom, ensuite or powder room. And then there's info that is specific to particular rooms. So whilst this episode relates to all 3 of these rooms, Amelia will identify some things to know with each room, individually.  The top 3 mistakes she'll share are:   Mistake #1: the toilet is visible with the door open (and is the first thing you see)  Mistake #2: locating your powder room so it’s directly accessed off your main hallway  Mistake #3: not planning the location of the towel rail during design  There are also lots of design tips. Here are the top 3:  Design tip #1: locate your vanity so it's the first thing you see  Design tip #2: ensure you give the bath enough room ... (whether it's free standing or built in)  Design tip #3: choose your tile extents and types early, as it impacts your budget  It may feel like there’s a lot to think of, but next time you’re sitting in your bathroom, look around and make a list of all the things that are permanently fixed in there. There is a lot packed into a relatively small area.   It all needs to function well, be durable and easy to clean and maintain, in order for your wet areas to not cause you issues. So of course, planning these things early will make your process simpler overall.   Listen to the podcast now, and learn how to get it right in your bathroom, ensuite and powder room.   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The main bedroom of the house … Bedroom Number 1. This can be simply a bedroom, or it can be arranged in combination with extra or attached spaces such as a walk-in-robe, ensuite and even a parents’ retreat. Other names for it are the master bedroom, or master suite.   Ensuites and walk-in robes will come in Episode 6 and Episode 7, so Amelia can give you more detail about them separately.  Something to know first about this episode ...  A lot of what Amelia will be sharing is options that are available to you. She'll actually be asking a lot of questions. You can then ask these of yourself, or discuss with your partner, to work out the best design choices for you.  Unlike some other parts of the home, the way a master bedroom is designed isn't too prescriptive in order for it to work. There are of course some fundamental things that work and don't, and she'll be taking you through those.   However, so much of the design aspect of the main bedroom involves super personal choice. And, as with your whole home, Amelia wants you do design it with intention. Actually think about how you’ll use it, and design it to suit you.   Amelia will be sharing the four F's and how to use them to get it right in your main bedroom. And, as always, she'll be identifying 3 key mistakes and 3 big design tips to help you design a beautiful master bedroom for your home. But actually – there’s a lot of mistakes and design tips in this one, so listen out!   The top 3 mistakes Amelia shares are:   Mistake #1: forgetting the circulation space required in this bedroom  Mistake #2: arriving into the master on the side or head of the bed  Mistake #3: not privatising the view into the room from within and outside the home  There are also lots of design tips. Here are the top 3:  Design tip #1: position the door into the room so you can see across the foot of the bed as you walk in  Design tip #2: choose and design your lighting for flexibility of use, and so you can turn off the last one from bed  Design tip #3: consider whether locating your master bedroom close to your kids’ bedrooms is the right choice  The main bedroom can often be the only space in our family homes that feels like ‘our own’. It’s a grown up space that gives us an opportunity to escape from busy, crazy family life. And gives us the chance to be secluded, and get some relaxation space of our own.   Listen to the podcast now. Amelia hopes you find it helpful in getting it right in your master bedroom or master suite.   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s a huge amount to consider when it comes to designing your kitchen. And it, more than any other area of your home, you can feel a lot of pressure that you’ll stuff it up.  This episode is about kitchens … all thing kitchens, which means Amelia will also talk about butler’s pantries, walk-in pantries and appliance cupboards.   Your renovation or new build can the opportunity you’ve been waiting for to finally get a kitchen that works. One with decent bench space, great storage, and a layout that enables you to enjoy being in it, using it, and getting the most from it.  So, in this episode, Amelia will cover the 4 “F’s” and how they relate to your kitchen. She’ll also share 3 mistakes to avoid, and 3 design tips to aim for so you nail this space in your home.   When a kitchen works, it ends up being amazing for improving your time and life in your home overall.   The thing is, for most homeowners she works with have families. And when you have kids, the way you usually entertain is at home. It’s hard, and expensive, to take a tribe of children out somewhere. And even when you do, you never get to actually speak to your friends, because you're too busy watching the kids!  So getting together with your friends and family usually involves being at someone’s home. And having a lovely open plan kitchen / living / dining area, that then flows to outside, is such a winner with easy family living and entertaining. Sounds good hey?  So what are these mistakes? She mentions a lot in this podcast episode, and here are her top 3:  Mistake #1: not planning out the storage you need  Mistake #2: island bench is too stumpy in proportion  Mistake #3: using a corner pantry  There are also lots of design tips. Here are the top 3:   Design tip #1: keep all services out of the island bench (including your sink)  Design tip #2: remember that your fridge is deeper than your kitchen joinery  Design tip #3: consider whether you need an island bench at all  Kitchens are a big deal in our homes. They're the source of a lot of angst when they don't work well, and so can be pretty stressful to get right. And, they also chew up a lot of our budget.   Listen to the podcast now. Amelia hopes you find it helpful in getting it right in your kitchen design.   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is about the second living space in our homes. It goes by lots of different names, but most homeowners planning a renovation or new home want to create one. So, let’s learn more about how to get it right.  This episode may also be a little controversial, as Amelia challenges you to consider whether you really need a second living space in your home. As you stretch your budget and your space to accommodate all the dreams you have for your new or renovated home, you may end up compromising everything.  She's not here to crush your dream. If you want a second living room, can afford one and want to know how to create one that works, then this episode is for you. There are also some suggestions for alternatives if you’ve been weighing up whether you can create this space in your home.   Australian homes are among the biggest in the world.   And, in Amelia's experience with renovating and building, there’s a great mismatch between homeowner expectations and actual costs and timeframes. They say it always costs twice as much to renovate and build, and takes twice as long. Instead, Amelia suggest's that homeowners begin their project thinking it will take half as long, and cost half as much, as it actually will. And the readjustment as they find this out can be super challenging on their journey.  So, how to do you get this second living room working in your home? We dive into the four “F’s” to understand how they apply to this space.   Amelia also shares 3 key mistakes she sees many homeowners make when designing their second living room. She’ll go through these in detail so you can avoid them in your design. What are they? Here’s a summary:  Mistake #1: not being strategic about where you locate this room in your floor plan  Mistake #2: creating a design that is too fixed in how the room needs to be used  Mistake #3: closing the room up too much  She also provides 3 design tips to help you get it right in your second living room. Here’s those 3 tips briefly:   Design tip #1: using it to zone the home, and improve the functionality overall by creating seasonal spaces with how its oriented and what it's connected to  Design tip #2: designing for flexibility in how you fit out the room so it serves lots of different functions  Design tip #3: use the room to provide breathing space to open the home up where needed - for spaciousness and light  This room is usually created to provide separation and choice in a home. But what other functions does yours need to perform? And how can you create it so it suits your family now, and always?  Listen to the podcast now. You’ll be on the way to getting it right in your design for your second living room.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The question we’re asking today is: How do we make our living and dining rooms, great spaces in our new or renovated home? We spend a huge amount of our time in our homes in our main living and dining rooms. In fact, these spaces, along with our kitchen, get prime use in our homes. So, getting it right in these rooms can and will have a significant impact on how our home feels and functions overall. In this episode, Amelia shares some amazing research that will help you understand where to place the lion’s share of your effort, energy and budget in your renovation or new home. It’s a game-changer. She also shares detail about how to achieve the four “F’s” in your main living and dining space. She'll uncover how to tailor this learning to your own design, so you can create a great living and dining space in your home. There’s 3 key mistakes Amelia sees many homeowners make when creating their living and dining rooms. She’ll go through these in detail so you can avoid them in your design. What are they? You’ll need to listen (!) … but avoiding these mistakes will help you … Mistake #1 Avoiding this will help you enhance the relaxation of your living space Mistake #2 Knowing this one will mean you don’t create a modern problem in how you use this room Mistake #3 Not doing this is a sure-fire way to build in flexibility and comfort into your main living room Amelia will also provide 3 design tips to help you get it right in these spaces. She goes through them in detail, how to execute them, and give you some action steps. Design tip #1 Tells you where to locate your living space in your home Design tip #2 Gives you tips about what you should be doing early on in the design process Design tip #3 Outlines how to arrange the room so you see certain elements first (There’s also key tips about your dining room – and how to avoid a big mistake many homeowners make in where they position it in their reno or new home design). Listen to the podcast now. You’ll be on the way to getting it right in your design for your main living and dining spaces. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let’s get down to the fundamentals. This episode introduces the "four F"s Amelia likes to consider when designing any room in your home. And in designing your home overall.  What are these four Fs? They are:   Functionality  Flexibility  Furnishability  Flow  (There’s a secret fifth F too!)  Amelia will share with you what each of these mean, and how to use them to create a home design that suits you now, and always.   She'll also outline what ‘design’ actually means. This isn’t an elite, unrealistic or unachievable design. This is the design that makes your everyday life in your home better, simpler, more convenient and more fun. Sometimes the measure of it is that it’s so good, you don’t even notice it.   This episode sets the stage with the core info you need to know before we dive into the rest of the season. As we move forward to discuss each room or space individually, you’ll have a framework to help you get it right.  This episode also begins to answer one of the most common questions Amelia receives: "How do I create a design that works? Especially when I plan on being in this home for 10 to 15 years? How do I predict what my family will need in the years to come, as well as be great for us now?" Listen to the podcast now. You’ll be on the way to getting it right in your design for your home.   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"What makes you think you're qualified to design your own home?!"  Many of Amelia's industry colleagues will think this when a homeowner designs their own home.   Amelia can understand why homeowners do this, though. It’s your home. Your budget. Your needs. Your family. Your site. Your life. Your future. Your dreams.   Because there's so much at stake, you want to control the outcome as much as possible. At least ensure you'll get it right, and achieve the home you dream of.  At Undercover Architect, Amelia will always recommend you work with a designer to create your home design. Even though it’s not legally required in Australia, Amelia thinks when you find the right designer for you, it helps your home reach the best possible outcome.  However, if you want to design your home, or at least get a head start on it, how can you know you’re getting it right?  That’s what Season 02 of the “Get it Right” podcast is all about … to help you do just this.   Listen to the podcast now. Amelia will introduce you to this season, outline what we’ll be covering, and who should be listening to it.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Episode 11 of Season 1.    In this last episode of Season 1, Amelia uncovers the 4th tool we have available to create spaciousness in our homes: Indoor / Outdoor Connections.  This first season of the “Get it Right” podcast has been taking you through what matters most.   These are the first and most fundamental choices and information you need to get it right in your new home or renovation. When you put these decisions first, then it simplifies the rest of the journey. It also helps you create a home that will feel great – and that you’ll feel great in.   As a client of Amelia’s once said “The wall costs the same, whether you put it in the right place, or the wrong place!” The same can be said for design generally. Great design isn’t any more expensive. It’s about having the knowledge to make the right choices, and making those choices first so you get to a great home at the end of your journey.  So how do you use indoor / outdoor connections to create spaciousness?  Many homeowners want to open up their home to bring the outside in. There’s the practical need to connect to their gardens, supervise their kids whilst they play, and make the most of our great climate here in Australia.   There’s also the desire to make our home feel larger, more light-filled and calm as well.  However, you don’t need a big block to make great indoor / outdoor connections. And cutting lots of holes in the walls of your home isn’t always the best approach either (that’s actually a sure-fire way to cause lots of additional costs in engineering and structure!)   There are 4 key ways to think about indoor / outdoor connections. When you approach your home design with these in mind, you can make sure you get results that work.  Head to the podcast to learn what these 4 ways are >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/indoor-outdoor  Amelia will take you through them, and help you understand how to create spaciousness, whilst maintaining security and privacy in your homes as well. She'll also share some images of projects – they may give you some ideas for your place that you hadn't thought of!  Listen to the podcast now.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Episode 10 of Season 1.    In this episode, Amelia shares how great storage creates spaciousness. This is the third tool we have in our toolkit to create spaciousness in our homes.  Storage can be fundamental in creating a physical sense of spaciousness. However, it is also key in creating mental spaciousness. That sense of calm that comes from feeling organised because there’s a place for everything, and everything is in its place.  The aim is to design our homes to support us, and our lifestyles, all the time. Especially at those hectic moments of the day that test the calm in any family home.   Did you know, many homeowners move house due to a lack of storage in their homes?   This isn’t only about decluttering. This is about creating storage solutions that improve the management of your everyday life. It’s the streamlining of our daily routines to make life more convenient, and our homes more relaxing. How you design your home can make this happen.  Amelia will share 3 specific design inclusions to consider in your new home or renovation. She’ll also highlight 5 tips to consider when sizing and designing storage for your home.   Head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/spaciousness-storage for some fantastic projects which illustrate how to get this right in your new home or renovation. There’s also other useful links for your project there.  And look forward to dramatically transforming how calm and peaceful your home (and you) will feel – regardless of how big it is. This is how to make your home your sanctuary.   Listen to the podcast now.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Episode 9 of Season 1.   In this episode, Amelia shares how light to can create spaciousness. Light is the second tool we have in our toolkit to create spaciousness in our homes.  Amelia will take you through both natural and electric night. After all, you want your home to feel spacious during the day, and after dark, don't you!  Many homeowners, when describing how they want their homes to be, use the words 'airy' and 'light' or 'light-filled'.    And we know intuitively that filling our spaces with light will make them feel great. And we also know that natural light does wonders for our moods and sense of comfort in our home.   We can create a feeling of relaxation that we can tap into almost the moment we walk into our homes. That helps us create that emotional connection with our homes, that make us feel 'at home'.    There are specific ways you can use light to create spaciousness, both during the day, and at night.   Amelia will identify the main mistakes homeowners make when using light in their homes, and the spaciousness and comfort killers they can be.  She’ll also outline 3 design strategies you can use to create spaciousness in your home, using both natural and electrical light.  Head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/spaciousness-light for some fantastic projects which illustrate how to get this right in your new home or renovation.   Amelia also shares some free resources you can use to get help with your electrical lighting design and layout. Yep, free resources!  Listen to the podcast now.   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Episode 8 of Season 1.   This season has been all about what matters most in designing your new home or renovation.  Many homeowners dream of a home that feels spacious. And they fall into the trap of believing that this means their home has to be bigger.   And it's understandable. Especially when we're renovating or building family homes. Often the need to renovate or build will be brought about because we feel we need more space. This might be because of the addition of new family members. Or it will be because our existing family members are growing and becoming more active.  So 'spaciousness' becomes about creating 'more space' or 'extra space'. Bigger rooms, and extra rooms.  There are a few ways to achieve spaciousness. Even in the most compact of homes. And not all of them are about 'more space' or 'extra space'. In fact, it’s worth knowing that 'more space' won't necessarily bring a feeling of spaciousness to your home.  Amelia believes that when our homes are designed well, they make our lives better. Simpler, more convenient, more beautiful, more fun. They work so well, and enable us to seamlessly integrate them into our everyday live. In short, our homes get out of our way. They support us being the best version of ourselves.   It may be hard to imagine this is possible if you're living in a home that is a daily inconvenience. Where your home is another hurdle you have to overcome each day to go about your life of juggling family, friends, work and other commitments.    It is possible though. It's actually the aim.    Listen to the podcast to learn how to use volume in your home to create spaciousness. Amelia will outline 3 mistakes homeowners make that are volume killers, and 4 fantastic design tips to get it right in your home.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Episode 7 of Season 1.   In this episode, Amelia shares some of the other assets you have available that can add great value to your home. At no cost to you. It's simply about knowing what they are, and choosing them first in your design.  So much of designing for new homes or renovation is about unlocking what is possible. About understanding the potential for your home and land, and enhancing it. About realising the potential of the natural assets and enhancing what's already freely available. Bringing these natural assets to the fore so they can make your home and your land really enjoyable. Which in turn, enhances the quality of your everyday life.  So what are these natural assets for your home and land? And how can you maximise them as an asset, or minimise them if they're a drawback?  These natural assets exist in all locations … from the most rural to the most urban. And they can be optimised to enhance the quality of your home. They are:  Sunlight  Shade  Breezes  Landscape  Views  Privacy  These are all things that can and do exist naturally in a home and site. And not all designs make the most of them or do them well.   Amelia will take you through these one by one, and show you how to get it right for your home.   Listen to the podcast now to learn how to get this right and add value to your design for free. Unlock the potential of what is already available to you, your site and your home.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Episode 6 of Season 1.   This episode will give you some free and low cost online resources to help with designing your home for your climate, and the movement of the sun. As well as some others to get you started on your project.  Only a couple of these resources are Australia only, and most can be used globally.   These online resources and apps will help with:  Understanding more about your local climate and how to design for it  Getting specific information about the movement of the sun over your home or site  Using the 4 special days each year to provide information to make your home better  Creating floor plans of your existing home  Designing new floor plans and experimenting with your project  Seeking inspiration and ideas for your renovation or new home  Keeping track of all your ideas and information in a digital filing system  Also managing your budget and expenses for your project – even on the go  Keeping track of all of your online communication and tasks for your project   Head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/episode6-resources for more information, as well as all the links and info about the recommended resources and apps Amelia mentions.  Listen to the podcast now for some seriously helpful tools, apps and online resources to make your home great, and help with those important decisions as you design your renovation or new home.   FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Episode 5 of Season 1.   This episode is the last of our four orientations. Over the last 3 episodes, we've talked about north, east, and south sunlight and orientations.   In this episode, we’ll talk about all things WEST.  This will help you get it right if you’re seeking ways to make your home feel great, and also if you have you have a west-facing home.  So what do you need to be aware of with western sunlight?   This can be the most challenging orientation to deal with. West is the direction our sun sets in, and even in the cooler months, it can still be a harsh quality of light. Yet, there are still ways we can create homes to manage it, and respond to it.   Let’s dive deeply into:  What western sunlight is like  What’s not great about western sunlight  How we need to shade and shelter from western sunlight   You’ll understand in detail:  What rooms need to be facing west  What rooms don’t need to be facing west  5 tools you can use to protect your home from western sun  And if you have a west-facing home, you’ll learn:  What your priorities should be if you’re designing a home for a west-facing orientation  What can go wrong in designing for western sunlight  How to use the strategies to add design value for free  What else you need to know about designing for a west-facing home  There’s a lot of great information crammed into this podcast … you may want to take notes! Listen to the podcast now.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Episode 4 of Season 1.   So far this season, we've been exploring the idea of orientation. And the importance of knowing yours when designing, renovating or building your home. We've talked about northern and eastern orientations and sunlight.  In this episode, we’ll talk about all things SOUTH.  This will help you get it right if you’re seeking ways to make your home feel great, and also if you have you have a south-facing home … or a home that faces south-east or south-west.  So what do you need to be aware of with southern sunlight? (And is there such a thing, given that in the southern hemisphere, our sun moves through the north?)   A southern orientation can be challenging to work with if you want to maximise northern sun in your home.  Amelia will outline 5 specific design strategies you can implement in creating your new home or renovation, that will bring northern light into a south-facing home.  Let’s dive deeply into:  What southern light is like  What’s not great about southern light  How we need to shade and shelter from southern light (it’s actually the sunlight on the edges of our southern orientation)  You’ll understand in detail:  What rooms need to be facing south  What rooms don’t need to be facing south  5 key strategies to use in your design  And if you have a south-facing home, you’ll learn:  What your priorities should be if you’re designing a home for a south-facing orientation  What can go wrong in designing for southern sunlight  Some homework for you as you research your project  What else you need to know about designing for a south-facing home  There’s a lot of great information crammed into this podcast … you may want to take notes! Listen to the podcast now.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Episode 3 of Season 1.    In this episode, we continue on our adventure of uncovering what matters most, and what decisions to prioritise when designing your new or renovated home.   In this episode, we’ll talk about all things EAST.   This will help you get it right if you’re seeking ways to make your home feel great, and also if you have you have an east-facing home.  So what do you need to be aware of with eastern sunlight?   And how should you optimise this to make your home feel great?   This podcast will teach you how to understand morning sun at your home, and manage it effectively year-round.  Let’s dive deeply into:  What eastern sunlight is like  What’s not great about eastern light  How we need to shade and shelter from eastern light  Something you may not know about the sunrise everyday  You’ll understand in detail:  What rooms need to be facing east  What rooms don’t need to be facing east  What to do if you have a view but need to shade from morning sun  Specific solutions to help you with shading   And if you have an east-facing home, you’ll learn:  What your priorities should be if you’re designing a home for an east-facing orientation  What can go wrong in designing for eastern sunlight  What happens when we get this right in our homes  What else you need to know about designing for an east-facing home   There’s a lot of great information crammed into this podcast … you may want to take notes! Listen to the podcast now.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Episode 2 of Season 1.   We continue to explore what matters most, and what decisions to prioritise when designing your new or renovated home.    In this episode, we’ll talk about all things NORTH.   This will help you get it right if you’re seeking ways to make your home feel great, and also if you have you have a north-facing home.  So what do you need to be aware of with northern sunlight?   And how should you optimise this to make your home feel great?   Let’s dive deeply into:  What northern sunlight is like  What’s not great about northern light  How we need to shade and shelter from northern light  You’ll understand in detail:  What rooms need to be facing north  What rooms don’t need to be facing north  A trick if you’re trying to stretch your budget and create great living spaces   And if you have a north-facing home, you’ll learn:  What your priorities should be if you’re designing a home for a north-facing orientation  What to do if your home doesn’t face due north (but faces north-east, or north-west, for example)  What can go wrong in designing for northern sunlight  What happens when we get this right in our homes  What else you need to know about designing for a north-facing home   There’s a lot of great information crammed into this podcast … you may want to take notes!  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Episode 1 of Season 1. This season Amelia is going to be taking you through what matters most. What are the most essential choices when designing your home? And in this first episode of the season, Amelia is diving into the very first choice - the most important thing to know - to make your home great. Whatever your dreams, your location or your budget. Today's episode is going to bring immediate clarity to you as you design, renovate or build your home. And Amelia means immediate. It's a big promise isn't it? It's not one she makes lightly! This is largely because of this fact: renovating and building aren't one big decision or choice. They're a series of choices made one after the other. At any point, you may have 2 options, or 20 options, or 200 options. This is the thing Amelia hears regularly - the difficulty that homeowners have in knowing what option to choose in these myriad of options. What if, instead, you could know the most important thing to prioritise? The first choice to make in your design that will make every subsequent choice simpler and streamline your design overall? There are lots of reasons why knowing this most important thing will help you in designing your home: You can design a home that suits your specific location and site You can design a home that supports your well-being You can design a home that costs you less in the future You can design a home that gets its Building Approval more simply You can design a home that’s good for the planet You can avoid wasting space that you’re paying for anyway You can simplify your design choices, and make your project easier, and life less stressful FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Amelia will be helping you answer the last question, which is “What do you, and your family, actually need from your home – now and into the future?” This may seem like a repeat of the first step, but stay with us here … Australia has the largest average home size in the world. Yes, that’s right. Bigger than our USA counterparts. And it’s climbed quickly.  In 1984, the average size of an Australian home was 162.2m2. In 2012-2013 ABS figures, this had jumped to 241.1m2. And our families haven’t got any bigger – in actual fact they’ve got much smaller. We all want more. The world of home ownership is littered with images to seduce us into wanting more and more from our homes. It’s also human condition to strive to improve and achieve. And there’s nothing wrong with that. However, when you really determine what you need to create a home that works for you, chances are you’ll find it’s actually pretty simple. And this is what Amelia knows, from the countless homeowners she speaks to and work with, most homeowners want from their home …  Space to be together. Space to be apart. Lots of natural light. Heat and warmth when you need it, and cooling breezes when you need those. Flexibility, functionality and durability. Comfort Somewhere to be proud of, to show all your hard work And a home that supports you living your best life – because it doesn’t tax you, stress you, or get in the way of you being awesome.  This isn’t about having less – it’s about simplifying. Keeping this front and centre as you move along your journey will help you navigate the noise and distractions. It will lead you to the home that is perfect for you.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode uncovers question 3: What can your budget afford?  Ugh … money. At some point it was going to get here, wasn’t it?!  Budget is the main thing that concerns homeowners embarking on their project. What will my build or reno cost me? And will it blow out along the way? In the last financial year (2015/2016) Australians spent a record $7.7 billion on home renovations according to the latest ABS figures.  That’s over $150 million a week. The figures for new homes are similar. When most of us tackle a renovation or new build, we have a figure in mind about how much we’d like to spend on our project. So our research and preparation becomes a study in what our money will buy us. How far we can stretch it, and whether it’s enough for the dreams we have for our home. Amelia starts with this advice. Do not ignore your budget. Do not avoid setting one. Doing this work early is one of the most significant things you can do to preserve sanity for your project, and not have it run away from you.  It may sound obvious. However, the countless conversations Amelia has had with homeowners that have got terribly awkward when she's asked “OK, so what is your budget?” shows her the gaping hole in how we plan our projects!! Set a budget early. Of course, it won’t be perfect, or fixed, but don’t let this stop you! Start crunching the numbers and determining rough estimates for your plans. Then you can finesse and firm up as you progress along your journey.  There are many free online calculators you can check out. This is a fave: Home Design Directory And cost guidelines are also useful for new homes: Construction Cost Calculator Flip your thinking … Your budget is actually what is enabling you to undertake this project. Many homeowners see it as a limiter, because it never feels like enough to do all the things they want it to do.  This may sound a little woo woo … but if you see it as a limiter, you’ll be fighting it every step of the way.   Instead, think of it as the tool, the facilitator, of your build or reno. It’s fantastic that you can access these funds to create a home for your family! Don’t be scared to talk about it, and keep tracking it the whole way through. Educate yourself on what things cost, how to stretch your budget, and empower yourself to invest it well.   Amelia is a firm believer that your home can be great, whatever your budget.   How do you get bang for buck? Get professional help Take your time in preparing Be aware of the costs in the things you don’t see Head to the podcast now for more detail on my tips to get bang for buck in your project.  FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, let’s talk about question 2. This question is “What are you allowed to do?”  More specifically, it’s “What does your local authority or council say you’re allowed to do?”  Council rules and regulations can seem like a complete minefield to many homeowners.  It can be a complete dampener on your plans if you let it … but Amelia promises you, it doesn’t have to be like this.   There will be planning regulations as well as building regulations, determining what you can and can’t do in your project. Your local council will enforce planning regulations and help control how your suburbs and streets will look. In some councils, if your project meets all their rules, you don’t need any council approval. Or you'll have a fast-track option to get your approval. Some councils will require a Development Application for all types of work. (A Development Application, or DA, is Council’s formal permission to proceed with any work.) The best place to start is your local council’s website. There’s usually fact sheets, or flow charts starting with “Do I need a Development Application?” that will help you get some information for your project. There are also building regulations that govern how your project can be constructed. These operate at a national level, with state variations. Generally, you’ll need a Building Approval to commence construction. This is when your project is formally checked against these building regulations. A Building Certifier (or Private Certifier) can assist you with these approvals. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the consistent questions I receive from homeowners is “Where do I start?”  It doesn’t matter whether you’re building or renovating. Knowing how to start can be confusing and overwhelming.  There is so much information and advice out there. Finding a simple path through it all can be challenging. It doesn’t take much to get overwhelmed. And it doesn’t take too many wrong turns to be in completely the wrong place.  The thing is that ‘wrong place’ is usually an expensive place to be. It can be costly to reverse decisions, and get back on track. It can also force you to have to live with your mistakes, and pay a mortgage on them as well. That's the double-whammy in building and renovating.  In my experience, all projects start the same way. Building, renovating, subdividing, extending … ALL projects. Whatever your dreams. Wherever you are, and whatever your budget is. This way involves answering four questions.  These 4 questions are: 1.     What would you like to do? 2.     What are you allowed to do? 3.     What can your budget afford? 4.     What do you, and your family, actually need from your home now and into the future? Let’s start with Question Number 1: What would you like to do? Often homeowners start by identifying their desires for their home as a shopping list of rooms and spaces. They try to piece their home together like a jigsaw puzzle. Instead, ask yourself “What am I seeking to achieve?” (Because ultimately, this is the guts of the question “What would I like to do?”) What are your big goals for your project?  Is it to create your forever home?  To give your current home a little more room?  To make life simpler, by downsizing? Or another reason? And then ask “Why”? I’ll be honest here. Any project involving renovating or building is a long-term play – it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Your “why” is your sustenance to get you through. You need to know it, hang onto it, believe in it, and hold it high. Write it down. Put it on the fridge. You may keep talking about your home in terms of what you want it to “do”. But it’s also important to think about “why” you want your home to do these things. And why you want to renovate or build in the first place. Your connection to your home is usually quite an emotional one.  Understanding the “why” of your project honours this. It will help set the framework as you move forward. It will also help you navigate the seduction trap that is Pinterest, Interiors Magazines and Makeover TV Programs. Creating your answer to "What do I want to achieve" saves your sanity, as well as your money and time. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Get It Right! I’m Amelia Lee, the architect behind Undercover Architect, and I’m your secret ally. This podcast will help you get it right when designing, building and renovating your home. In this episode, you’ll learn more about what to expect from the podcast, why Undercover Architect began, and what it’s all about. After you’ve had a listen, hit subscribe so you don’t miss any of our weekly episodes. In the first four episodes released, I take you through the first 4 questions that every project – regardless of budget – needs to begin with in order to go well. If you’ve been struggling to get started on your renovation or new home, these first 4 episodes are for you. FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST CLICK HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.