Get It Right with Undercover Architect

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.