Get It Right with Undercover Architect

Hello! This is Episode 376, and it’s the final instalment in our 4-part mini-series on how to make confident, clear decisions in your project, across the four key phases that every renovation or new build travels through: Pre-Design, Design, Pre-Build, and Build. We’ve already explored how to lay the groundwork for clarity in the Pre-Design Phase (Episode 373), how to lead with intention in the Design Phase (Episode 374), and how to stay in control as momentum builds in the Pre-Build Phase (Episode 375). Now, we arrive at the Build Phase: the part that many see as the most exciting. It’s where all your planning, decisions and hard work begin to physically take shape on site. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/376] And while it might look like the finish line is in sight, the Build Phase is often where overwhelm can hit hardest.  Construction moves fast.  Questions arise unexpectedly.  You may experience hiccups and hurdles. And your ability to stay confident and clear can feel challenged, especially if communication drops off or decisions start being made without you. In this episode, I’ll walk you through three essential ways to make confident, clear decisions during the Build Phase, and stay actively involved in a way that supports progress, protects your goals, and maintains your sanity. These aren’t just practical tools… they’re mindset shifts that help you navigate this final stretch with greater clarity, confidence and calm, feeling more in control as you see your home dreams become reality. And remember: whether you’re renovating or building a new home, the goal isn’t just to finish your build. It’s to finish feeling proud, informed, and empowered by everything you’ve achieved along the way. As always, if you’d like to access a full transcript of this episode and links to the resources I mention, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/376.  Now, let’s dive in! RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/376 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 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/ 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.

In this engaging discussion, the focus is on navigating the crucial pre-build phase of projects. Key topics include the importance of finalizing decisions and avoiding common pitfalls like rushing through choices. Listeners learn strategic research techniques for finishes and how to effectively review drawings and construction contracts. Amelia emphasizes savvy builder selection and managing administrative tasks to set the stage for a smoother construction experience. These insights aim to enhance confidence and reduce stress for anyone preparing to build or renovate.

Discover how to navigate the thrilling yet daunting Design Phase of your renovation or new build. Gain insights into building confidence and clarity to simplify your decisions. Learn to translate your ideas into functional drawings that reflect your lifestyle goals. Understand the importance of evaluating your project team for smooth sailing. Plus, find out what truly constitutes good design and why it’s more about functionality than aesthetics. Get ready to empower your building journey!

The focus on pre-design highlights how essential it is for successful home projects. Discover why homeowners crave clarity and confidence throughout renovations. Learn about the often-skipped pre-design phase and its serious consequences. Amelia shares insights on local rules and site analysis to inform design choices, emphasizing the value of early professional input to avoid costly mistakes. The message is clear: investing in pre-design builds the foundation for a smoother, more efficient project and minimizes stress.

Join Ben as he navigates the thrilling journey after signing the building contract for his Melbourne Bungalow. Discover how he tackled legal reviews, navigated delicate discussions with his builder, and dealt with insurance delays. Ben shares his personal insights on relationship-building, handling budget contingencies, and ensuring effective communication on-site. His reflections on remaining curious and engaged throughout the construction process provide valuable advice for anyone embarking on a renovation journey.

Join Ben as he shares his journey of selecting a builder, emphasizing the importance of due diligence and effective communication. Discover how he navigated revised quotes that unveiled hidden costs and learned the art of validating builder bids. Ben highlights the crucial steps taken before signing the contract, including locking in detailed selections and managing client-builder relations. He reveals the benefits of structured site meetings and how an informed client can significantly enhance the building experience. This conversation is packed with practical insights for anyone in the construction process!

Join a captivating discussion as a homeowner navigates the ins and outs of designing a sustainable new build. Topics include smart choices for kitchen and bathroom layouts tailored to climate and maintenance needs. Discover creative solutions for windowless showers and the balance of research with budget constraints. The conversation also dives into the financial overwhelm many face, highlighting key documents for discussions with mortgage brokers and the importance of blower door tests for energy efficiency. Tune in for insights and strategies!

Tatiana shares her journey of designing a family home while navigating budget constraints. She discusses the impact of a tight budget on disciplined design choices, including a debate about adding a third toilet. The L-shaped layout enhances functionality, and the design process emphasizes collaboration with her builder. They explore entry design and layout features like a mudroom and alfresco space, all while balancing personal ideas with professional guidance. Insights into planning roof options and maximizing space are also highlighted.

Hello! This is Episode 368, and it’s Part 2 of my conversation with HOME Method members, Jan and Landon, who are currently building a passive house home for themselves in Sydney’s north.  In this episode, we’re diving into a few key updates, starting with their Granny Flat and how its design and construction are coming together. We also discuss interior design selections, and some challenging stormwater issues they’re needing to resolve. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/368] If you haven’t listened to Part 1 of my conversation with Jan and Landon in the last episode, head back to Episode 367 to hear more. You can find that at www.undercoverarchitect.com/367  Jan and Landon first appeared on the podcast in Episodes 338 and 339 to introduce us to their project, so those episodes are there for you to hear more about their journey and where it all began. In this episode, we also chat through a few specific things they’re navigating right now, and I share some suggestions on what their next best steps might be. You’ll hear us talk about how they’re working with their hydrologist and builder to figure out a stormwater solution for a pretty tricky site. We discuss the process of choosing an Interior Designer and building confidence around making selections, especially for kitchen and bathroom finishes. Jan’s been feeling a bit unsure here, so we spent some time talking it through and helping her move forward with more ease. And we also talk about their Granny Flat in terms of airtightness, blower door testing, and what might be possible even though the intention is not to get it certified at Passive House standards. We also talk about white paint, and ALL.THE.CHOICES. there … and which one is my preferred. It’s another great episode if you’re wondering what it looks like to move forward with clarity, even when there are still lots of decisions to make. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, you can find that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/368. Now, let’s dive in! RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/368 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/ 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 367, and in it, I’m speaking with HOME Method members, Jan and Landon, about their new home and granny flat that they’re building as a Passive House in Sydney’s north. Jan and Landon have specific goals for their project. They’re both in their 70s, so they’re considering how they can age in place well, as well as create a home that’s in alignment with their sustainability and lifestyle goals. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/367] Jan and Landon were first on the podcast back in Episodes 338 and 339, where we learned about them selling their home of 39 years, to move to a different part of Sydney, and to a site that’s been in Landon’s family for over 70 years. They’re retired teachers so they’re amazing learners and have really embraced their project preparation and management with a fantastic, proactive methodology using the content of HOME Method.  This is their first project of this scale, and it’s incredibly exciting they’ve moved to the house on the neighbouring lot to where they are building, and work has started on site for their project. The last time we caught up, we discussed how they found their team, and how they set up a collaborative process with their architect and builder, and got going on their design process.  We discussed the priorities for their design, and the qualities of the site, and we also talked about how their builder uses a particular pre-fab panel method to construct a passive house.  If you haven’t heard the first part of Jan and Landon’s project journey in those episodes, I’d highly recommend checking them out. You can find them at www.undercoverarchitect.com/338 and www.undercoverarchtiect.com/339. In this episode, we catch up on how they’ve travelled with their design, their budget, and how the collaboration has continued on their project. You’ll get to hear how their team has worked together, what their role has been, and what’s surprised and what’s challenged them along the way.  It’s a fantastic opportunity to hear about their project progress as we go into all the details in this update. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, you can find that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/367. Now, let’s dive in! RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/367 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/ 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.