Getting the Best Build Experience, with Builder, Anthony Hickey, Two Tone Construction

Jun 9, 2025

Join Anthony Hickey, Director of Two-Tone Construction, a Melbourne boutique builder, as he shares insights on ensuring a smooth building experience. He emphasizes the importance of effective communication and regular site meetings for better collaboration. Educated homeowners, he argues, often make projects smoother. Anthony also discusses the necessity of early builder involvement for accurate budgeting and how to select the right builder. He highlights the value of professionalism and continuous learning in the construction industry.

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ADVICE

Use Weekly Site Meetings

Hold weekly site meetings and use them as the primary communication channel to reduce emails and calls.
Use phone or email only for urgent issues outside the scheduled meeting rhythm.

INSIGHT

Client Knowledge Improves Projects

Informed clients improve the build process and sometimes teach the builder new product knowledge.
A builder who welcomes client input benefits from reciprocal learning and better outcomes.

ADVICE

Manage Expectations With Clear Explanations

Explain finish limitations and what is and isn't in scope to manage expectations proactively.
Show clients how things will look and offer options when assumptions differ.

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Hello! This is Episode 360, and I’m back with Part 2 of my conversation with builder, Anthony Hickey, from Melbourne-based Two Tone Construction. Anthony recently completed a renovation project with HOME Method members, Tanya and Paul, and as he said in Part 1, they’ve redefined his benchmark for his ideal client!

In this episode, Anthony and I talk about how to set up effective communication between a builder and a client, especially when you’re a client who has invested in getting educated and informed, and you’re wondering how a builder might welcome your input and involvement in your own project.

Anthony also shares his recommendations for how to find the right builder to work with, how to work well with your builder, and when to get them on board to achieve the best outcome.

[For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/360]

If you haven’t listened to Part 1 of the conversation, head back to Episode 359, where you’ll hear Anthony discuss his pre-construction involvement, and the processes he used to set up a great working relationship with his HOME Method clients. You can find that at www.undercoverarchitect.com/359.

If you’ve been wondering what to expect during the construction of your new build or renovation, and how to have a great project experience by choosing a builder who respects your desired investment and collaboration, you’ll love this conversation.

Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, you can find all of that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/360.

Now, let’s dive in!

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RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST:

For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/360

My free '44 Ways' E-Book will simplify sustainability for you, and help you create a healthy, low tox and sustainable home - whatever your dreams, your location or your budget. Access your copy here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/ways

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.

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