Renovation Progress Update: From Design to Construction, with Louise + Zane

Jan 5, 2026

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Hello! This is Episode 383, and in it, we’re getting an update from HOME Method members, Louise and Zane, about their renovation project. They’re currently under construction in their renovation and extension of a Californian Bungalow in Melbourne.

[For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/383]

If you haven’t heard the earlier parts of Louise and Zane’s journey, head back to Episodes 317 and 318, and then their most recent updates in Episodes 354 and 355.

You’ll hear how they approached choosing their team, what they wanted to create with their Californian Bungalow renovation and extension in Melbourne, and the early preparation they did to set themselves up well.

You can find those at:

In this conversation, Louise and Zane share where the project is at now, and the great news is that construction is moving along smoothly and they’re getting to enjoy that shift where the house starts to feel like a home.

They also talk candidly about the early challenges of bank finance and timing, and how, once that was resolved, they’ve been able to find a really solid rhythm with the build.

We also dive into how they’ve used the PAC Process with their team, why their Design Brief (using the Brief Builder template from HOME Method) has been such an important anchor for decisions.

They also discuss how having their architect also act as their interior designer helped bring forward key selections and reduce pressure during construction. Not all architects work this way, so it’s super interesting to hear how this helped Louise and Zane in their project.

Plus, they share how and why they’ve staged parts of the project, including what they’ve done now to make stage two simpler when they’re ready.

It’s a fantastic update that shows how the preparation, learning and work they did in the earlier parts of their project is now supporting a streamlined, confident and collaborative construction process overall.

And if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, you can find all of that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/383.

Now, let’s dive in!

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST:

For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/383

Accessing my free '44 Ways' E-Book will simplify sustainability and help you create a healthy, low tox and sustainable home. You can download your free copy here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/ways

Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when designing, renovating or building your future home inside my signature online program, HOME Method >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/

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