Hello! This is Episode 334, and in it, I’m talking with Andy Pace from the Green Design Center in Wisconsin, USA. Andy is joining me to talk about his role as a Healthy Home Concierge and Founder of The Green Design Center, and how he helps and works with homeowners in all locations, to not only supply healthy and sustainable building products and materials, but also provide advice through consultancy, on what’s required to achieve a healthy outcome for both existing and new homes. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/334]. When Andy reached out to connect and chat about coming on the podcast, I thought it was a really great opportunity to compare notes, and discuss the evolution of green and healthy building practices.  We’ve both got over 30 years industry experience, but on opposite sides of the globe. And so, it was brilliant to have this conversation, and discuss the exciting developments we’ve seen in the industry as the demand for healthy homes has grown. There’s lots of similar challenges and opportunities for those that we each help, and commonality in the comparative experiences that homeowners are having as they make health-based decisions for their projects. Especially when it comes to mould and chemical sensitivities. As founder of the oldest healthy building supply company in the United States, Andy has become one of the single most helpful and educational experts dealing with the day-to-day concerns of those individuals who suffer from allergies, asthma and chemical sensitivities.   There’s some fantastic insights shared in this podcast episode that I know will be super helpful for anyone building or renovating with their sights on achieving a healthy home, wherever in the world this information reaches 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/334. 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/334 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 333, and in it, I’m sharing information about an amazing company that’s Australia’s leader in textile recovery and recycling. UPPAREL, based in Melbourne, Victoria, is a BCorp Certified company, and is an award-winning leader in textile recovery and recycling, providing convenient solutions to textile waste for both consumers and businesses. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/333]. UPPAREL first came onto my radar when previous podcast guest, Joost Bakker, shared some of their incredible products on social media.  As Joost is super passionate about zero waste products, he was at the UPPAREL Factory and showing the panels being made from recycled textiles, and it was amazing to see the process and the volume of waste UPPAREL are able to recycle. Waste that would normally go to landfill. So, I knew I wanted to get UPPAREL on the podcast, and put them on your radar, as i think there’s some really exciting opportunities and options about how their products could be used in various applications for your project. So, in this episode, I’m speaking with Riley Aickin who is the Partnerships & UPtex Manager at Upparel. Riley is going to take us through how UPPAREL turns textile waste into a huge range of products we can use in our homes, from pet bedding all the way through to acoustic panelling and site signage.  And given that Australia has just overtaken the USA as the world's largest consumer of textiles globally, and on average Australians purchase 27kg of new textiles and then discard around 23kg into landfill annually … UPPAREL is responding to a huge problem we have here. 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/333. 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/333 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 332, and I’m back with HOME Method member, Elizabeth, and discussing the renovation of her brick home in a Bushfire BAL Rated Flame Zone area. In this episode, we talk more about the investigations Elizabeth will be doing as she dives into her renovation project, and my suggestions on how to keep working to her ideal project timeline.  We also talk through some of the renovation decisions she’s making based on the home being in a BAL Flame Zone area.  [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/332.] If you missed Part 1 of my conversation, you can listen to it in Episode 331. You’ll hear how Elizabeth and her family came to purchase this home, who it's being renovated for and her intentions for it. You’ll find that at www.undercoverarchitect.com/331. We share Part 2 in this episode, and you’ll get to hear more about the construction of the existing home, what that means for renovating it, and the various products and materials Elizabeth has been researching because of the BAL Flame Zone rating.  We also discuss the professionals she’ll need to involve and how to get them collaborating together for efficiency.  Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, you can find that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/332. 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/332 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 331, and I’m looking forward to introducing you to HOME Method member, Elizabeth. Elizabeth has been one of our long-time members, having joined HOME Method, or an earlier iteration of the program, almost 5 years ago in 2019. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/331] In the world of online businesses, that’s a long time … but for me as an architect having worked in this industry since 1994, it doesn’t feel that long!! Elizabeth’s story is a really interesting one, because when she joined, she didn’t know what kind of project she was going to be working on, or where, or with who. You see, Elizabeth’s home sits on land that was rezoned some years ago, which meant that a move was going to be on the cards, but there were a few hurdles to jump through first. Elizabeth decided not to wait for those hurdles, and instead start upskilling herself, so that when they needed to act, she could feel much more comfortable and confident to do so quickly. And, 5 years on - that’s exactly what’s happening right now! A speedy home purchase, a planned renovation, plus some other really amazing things have been happening that I’ll let Elizabeth share with you as we go.  I’m sure you’re going to love meeting Elizabeth, and following along with her story from the start. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, you can find that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/331. 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/331 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.

A couple decides to renovate instead of rebuild, aiming for a cost-effective transformation of their home. They cover the intricate design process, assess energy efficiency, and tackle common renovation challenges. Insights on project management and preparation highlight the emotional aspects of homeownership. The importance of collaboration with designers and budgeting considerations are also discussed. Strategies for improving comfort and energy performance in their double brick home provide practical takeaways for listeners.

Hello! This is Episode 329. In it, you’re going to meet Angela. She and her partner own a block of land with an existing home on it in Tasmania, and after purchasing the home, they started their project journey with the plan to demolish the home and build a new one - otherwise known as a ‘Knock Down Rebuild’ or KDRB! However, once they lived in the home for a little while, their ideas changed. And what was to be a knock-down rebuild project of a new home, has morphed into a planned renovation of the existing home.  [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/329] I think you’ll find it super interesting to hear how Angela and her partner arrived at this project change, and how they’ve sought help and support so they can make informed decisions about creating the right result for them, their budget and their long-term plans. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, you can find that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/329. 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/329 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.

Building a new home can be a rewarding experience, especially with effective planning. Good communication between homeowners and builders is essential to navigate challenges that arise. Janet shares her personal journey, highlighting how proactive dialogue helped reduce stress and resolve hiccups during construction. As they prepare to move in, the excitement of embracing their new home begins. Their story showcases the importance of clear specifications and collaboration for a smoother building process.

Join Janet, who is building a new home in Brisbane after nearly two decades in her old house, as she shares her journey of tackling a challenging block. She discusses the importance of choosing the right builder and custom-designing their family’s dream home. Janet highlights the emotional ups and downs leading to construction, emphasizing effective communication and relationship-building with her builders. Learn about the nitty-gritty of paint color testing and the role of thorough research in ensuring a smooth building experience.

Hello! This is Episode 326, and it’s Part 2 of my conversation with HOME Method member, June, about their new build of their retirement home in the West Australian coastal town of Green Head. Whilst living remotely from the site - 3.5 hours away. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/326] If you haven’t listened to Part 1, be sure to head back to Episode 325, where you’ll hear June discuss how they thought about ageing in place in their design, and the decisions they made for their coastal location with its harsher conditions. You can find the episode and a downloadable transcript at www.undercoverarchitect.com/325. In this episode, we dive into some of the details of windows and external cladding, and choices made for the location’s conditions and climate resilience.  June discusses how she worked with her team, and her realisation that she didn’t have to be the one to solve all the problems whilst she ensured she was getting the quality outcome she wanted in her home. I also discuss how June and her partner managed communication with the builder remotely, and the methods they used to check the build along the way, given they were living 3.5 hours from the site. And June shares how they set themselves up to make good decisions based on knowledge instead of guessing. Lastly, be sure to listen out for the mic drop at the end about June’s home’s energy efficiency star rating. She snuck that in right at the end and blew me away! Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, you can access a free copy by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/326. 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/326 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.

Meet June, a researcher building a coastal home in Western Australia for aging in place. Explore their journey of designing a low maintenance, energy-efficient, and resilient home. Learn about their challenges in remote management, budget adjustments, and incorporating accessible design features. Discover how they navigated the construction process and future-proofed their home for off-grid living.