Get It Right with Undercover Architect

Join the free 5 Day Home Design Challenge (it’s running from 29 Jan - 2 Feb 2020) >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/challenge And check out Home Design Masterclass for more help and support in your floor plan design >>> www.howtodesignahome.com It can be common for homeowners to get really caught up in worrying about the finishes, the builder, the quality of construction. But one thing I know for sure is this: you can have a home with all the high-end finishes, built by the most amazing builder to the highest quality, and still have a terrible design that makes the home horrible to live in on a day-to-day basis. I firmly believe that those lines on a page, the drawings that you’re creating either by yourself, or in working with someone, will dictate how you get to live, feel and function both in and beyond your home for years and years to come. And I think it can be the most frustrating and slow part of the renovating or building process for homeowners, for a few reasons. Sooo … is it possible to design your home without an architect? Well, in a lot of places around the world, and especially in Australia, it is. In fact, in Australia, the only part of the process you need a professional for is to prepare your approval drawings, because there are certain benchmarks you need to satisfy to present your plans for council and building approval. However, you’re planning to, or currently creating your design for your new home or renovation … whether you’re working with a professional or not … I did want to share the key ways to approach and work through your design process so that you get it right. So, you can make sure this happens if you’re designing your home yourself OR you can keep your designer accountable to providing this level of service to you as they work with you. There are 3 main investigations I see missing from the design process when a homeowner does it themselves, or they work with a professional who doesn’t use a holistic design approach. And remember I said the things that happen when a home isn’t designed well, it can mean the home is ... uncomfortable to live in,  expensive to heat and cool,  lacks flexibility for family life over the long term, and completely waste the opportunities available for their site and their budget  When certain investigations don’t happen during the design process, it’s, unfortunately, more likely to end up with a home that doesn’t work. Because if you don’t include these 3 things, these methods of examination or investigation, then you completely miss crucial information to inform your design with.  LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Join the free challenge (running 29 Jan - 2 Feb 2020) >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/challenge Learn more about ‘Home Design Masterclass’ >>> www.howtodesignahome.com Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-how-to-design-a-home-without-an-architect for the transcript of this podcast.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! In the last of our special Q & A episodes, Brett has a brilliant question about working out costs early in his project, and Patricia wants some info on skylights. So, let’s dive in. Want to get it right in your home design? Watch my free online workshop, where I share 5 key ways (plus lots of other tips and strategies) >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ THIS EPISODE’S QUESTIONS ... Brett has this question: “Good day Amelia, my name's Brett. I'm from Perth in Western Australia. We've got a young family, two little kids, and we're in the process of planning and designing our future forever home.  Being a mechanical engineer, I'm big with planning, designing and quantifying decisions. While the technical stuff I'm comfortable with, what I'm having trouble with is the costing side.  There's a lot of information out there on general square meterage cost of a typical home for this and that what I'm wondering what resources and how would one go about getting a bit more detail in initial first pass costing for the different concepts and building systems and approaches to building a home. Not looking for high level detail that you'd get from a quantity surveyor, but I'm keen to be able to get a feel for myself as to the differences in costs to use brick over timber framing, using slab floor over timber flooring, and different ways of doing roof systems and the implication of costs.  Just so I can get a feel for the implications of these different designs and building systems and ideas that I've got. And how they're going to change the costs. So I can make these very early stage basic conceptual decisions about where to head with the design of the home before I go jumping in with a desired approach that completely doesn't suit budgets.  Hope you can help. I love your podcasts, have listened to everything single one - extremely beneficial. Keep up the great work.” And Patricia wants to know if she can get more light from her Velux: “Hello, Amelia. My name is Patricia from Victoria. We are planning to build, but in the meantime I would like more light.  There is a Velux in the living room ceiling, 50 centimetre by 1.3 metre. It's not flush with the ceiling. Is it possible to enlarge the casement to provide a wider angle of light, and how much more light could we get? Thank you.” LISTEN TO MY ANSWERS NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Watch the free online workshop now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-question-and-answer-home-design-budgetSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to get it right in your home design? Watch my free online workshop, where I share 5 key ways (plus lots of other tips and strategies) >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ THIS EPISODE’S QUESTION ... Laura’s question: “Hi, Amelia. My name is Laura. I live in Perth in Western Australia. Firstly, I just want to say thanks so much for your podcast. I've gotten a heap of great information and ideas from it. I guess we've got a bit of a situation where we would really love your advice or just thoughts on best ways to move forward. We bought our house six years ago in Perth, right before the market crashed. We bought in a high point, it's since crashed, hence we have no equity in our home. We also bought our home sight unseen, which sounds crazy, but it was actually built by my husband's Pop (grandfather) in 1949. We always used to drive past the outside and we kind of thought how bad can it be inside. Well, let's just say it needs a lot of love, attention, and money spent on it. We're at the point now, after getting married, having our children, where we would like to do some updates to the house. It really needs work. It's full of asbestos, it's tiny, lots of things going on. The first thing we actually wanted to do was pop in a new kitchen. So I recently did your Kitchen Design Challenge, which was awesome. However, just to get our room to the point where we can put in a new kitchen, the quotes I was getting ... I was just blown away. I just thought "this is the start of a very long and difficult process". So we're just sort of weighing it all up. Considering we don't have equity in the home, do we just do these renovations tiny bit-by-bit? It's honestly, I know how much work and money it's going to take. I'm pretty realistic about that. However, we do love our home. We love our block, we love our suburb.  There is the option to actually build, because we have a wide frontage, (so we could) build new next to our existing house and then knock down. However, we are in a bushfire-prone area as well, so those costs need to be taken into consideration and I feel we would actually overcapitalise a little bit. I'm not sure, but all I know is that would be quite a few years away, to be able to do that. Option number three is what my husband is sort of pushing for, and that's to actually just sell and cut our losses. In doing that though, we would have to move back in with his parents, which is fine, they're amazing. But obviously we're in our 30's, we have three kids. It's not really the ideal situation, but we would have to do that in order to save for a deposit for a new home because I feel we would probably actually take a loss on this home just considering how the market's gone. So those are our three options at the moment. I have gone round in circles so many times about what the best course of action for our family would be. I know that you can't answer that for us, but I would just really appreciate your thoughts on this and any advice you might have for us. Thanks, Amelia. Bye.” LISTEN TO MY ANSWER NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Watch the free online workshop now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-question-and-answer-do-we-renovate-or-sell  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to get it right in your home design? Watch my free online workshop, where I share 5 key ways (plus lots of other tips and strategies) >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ THIS EPISODE’S QUESTIONS ... Teri has this question: “Hi, my name is Teri Mason. I'm in Oklahoma in the United States, and we are building a family and event centre, and we're wanting to do it in biophilic design. We've done a tremendous amount of research. It's been quite a process, but with it being a little more unknown, obviously, the resources are a little more scarce, and I would love to hear your input as far as what would you do to bring in more natural elements? Looking for shapes or inspiration areas or resources or just anything you could just speak to that, just make it a great place, I would truly appreciate it.” And Felicity is curious about her windows: “Hi, I'm Felicity from Victoria, doing a renovation. Just wondering whether or not cathedral or highlight windows up high facing north to south should open or just be fixed. The other window in the area is double-hung window across in the living room. Thank you.” LISTEN TO MY ANSWERS NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Watch the free online workshop now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-question-and-answer-biophilic-design-windowsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to get it right in your home design? Watch my free online workshop, where I share 5 key ways (plus lots of other tips and strategies) >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ THIS EPISODE’S QUESTIONS ... Meredith’s question: “Hi, Amelia. My name is Meredith. I'm really enjoying your podcast. Thank you so much for sharing all of your knowledge.  We're currently living in Queensland. We plan on building a retirement/holiday home on acreage in Victoria in the next couple of years.  We've been looking at the option of building a modular home and wondering if you will be covering this subject (modular and prefab homes), in any future podcasts.  Also, at any particular things I need to look out for when designing and planning a modular home. Thank you.” And Gabrielle had this question: “Hi Amelia. My name is Gabrielle. I live on the South coast of Victoria. We've recently bought a block, a beautiful block. It is South-looking, it overlooks a river. It's gorgeous, and we'd love to build our dream home on there. I've looked through and heard all your podcasts and look through lots of the information about building south and we'll certainly incorporate plenty of your suggestions about bringing north light into the home. However, where we live is quite cold much of the year. We only get a handful of really hot days, and so then, when we're designing our living and alfresco spaces, I'm wondering whether we should be designing to the southeast or the southwest. When you're in a really cold climate, is western afternoon, evening sun still the devil, or is it something we can actually utilise to warm up our living areas in the evening? Any recommendations would be gratefully appreciated.” LISTEN TO MY ANSWERS NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Watch the free online workshop now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-question-and-answer-prefab-homes-south-facing-design See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to get it right in your home design? Watch my free online workshop, where I share 5 key ways (plus lots of other tips and strategies) >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ THIS EPISODE’S QUESTIONS ... Elizabeth got in touch: “Hi Amelia. My name's Elizabeth. I'm in Castle Hill in New South Wales. First up, thank you for producing such a fabulous podcast, and providing so much fantastic, informative, entertaining and helpful information. It's made a huge difference to how I'm approaching the design of our new home. And that new home we're planning to build in 2020, just as soon as we settle the sale of our current home, and find the right block of land. I will be living in that home with my husband and our three boys who will be 16, 14 and 11 by that stage, and our two very boisterous Standard Labradoodles, and six budgies live in a large cage in our house. I'm very passionate about this home, embracing all things sustainability, and I'm quite intrigued by some of the alternative prefabricated panel constructions that I've seen on Grand Designs over the years that seem to be more prevalent in Europe than in Australia. I know there are concrete, and structural insulated panels and cross-laminated timbers and a whole lot of other acronyms, but I don't know much more than that. So, I'm wondering, what are the benefits of using the prefabricated panels, and the different types, and how they stack up against regular brick and timber construction? Do they impact the flexibility of the design, the durability of the design, cost, time to build and sustainability, and can they be used to achieve a Passive House status? Thank you. That's a lot of question, but I'm really looking forward to hearing your answer. And once again, thank you for such a great podcast, and all the information you provide to all of us.” And Nicola had this question: “Hi, I'm Nicola. I live two hours north of Auckland in New Zealand. I've been listening to your podcast from day one. Fantastic.  We've just downsized and bought a three bedroom, two bathroom home. We had moved from a five bedroom plus study plus three bathroom home, thanks to your podcasts. And we've been able to renovate.  So my question is … everybody was talking on Houzz (and some of the architects on Houzz), saying that walk-in pantries were so yester-year, and also sort of breakfast bars and bar stools were yester-year. And we actually put in a black kitchen with French Oak laminate drawers, and white around the fridge and the oven. So we've got big black benches, and a couple of those cupboards are black ... so wood and black and white is our kitchen. Have you found with clients that black is staying? It's a very kind of 'out there' colour because it came in a few years ago, and we didn't ever use it in the 1980s. Is black still in and will it stay in for a wee while?  And also this breakfast bar idea. We have a table that we sit at, as well. We don't just perch up on stools. It seems like polls that they do on Houzz and places like that ... half and half people love breakfast bar or they don't. I love mine. I'm happy with it.  And if you think walk-in pantries or butler's pantries, we don't have a sink in ours, it's just a walk-in pantry, are like yesterday's news? I don't think they are. I think they're fantastic, but they seem to be going out of fashion, as well. So just your thoughts on them. Thanks very much. Bye.” LISTEN TO MY ANSWERS NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Watch the free online workshop now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/5ways/ For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-question-and-answer-sips-and-kitchen-trendsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do you need to know about shopping online for tiles? We talk with Floss Kelly, co-founder, about TileCloud. If you’re selecting and ordering tiles, there are key things to know so you don’t run into issues on site. Shopping online can be a great alternative. Florence (or Floss as she first introduced herself to me!) is the Brand Director and Co-Founder of online store TileCloud, and she is one of three faces, of the tile store that Australian's love. And Floss is definitely the design savvy of TileCloud. She has a Bachelor in Design from the College of Fine Arts in Sydney, majoring in Ceramics. Using her design and ceramics background and impressive history in global retail - she and the TileCloud team have changed the Home Renovations and Interior Industry. If you haven’t come across TileCloud yet, you’re going to love (love!) it. TileCloud is an online tile supply business. With a beautiful website, an incredibly gorgeous, curated collection of tiles to choose from, and the ability to order samples through to much bigger quantities, all from the comfort of your lounge room, TileCloud is such an incredible way to source tiles for any project. This ISN’T sponsored content … I just think TileCloud are awesome! I hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  In this full interview featured inside Interior Design 101, Floss and I talk on some other great tiling topics, including …  Why epoxy grout is not common in residential projects Recommendations regarding sealing your tiles Managing batching and stock amounts when ordering tiles at different times What else to order with your tiles to get a great result Tips for getting it right with tile selection So if you’re keen to learn more about those things, then check out Interior Design 101 as the full interview is available in there now. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with everyday.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-tilecloudSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this conversation, Karen Haller, a leading expert in applied color psychology and author of "The Little Book of Colour," shares her insights on the powerful impact of color in our homes. She discusses how color influences emotions and behavior, emphasizing the importance of embracing personal style over trends. Listeners learn about tonal harmony in design and how to interpret their own color personality. By integrating mindful color choices, one can create spaces that truly reflect individuality and enhance well-being.

In this episode, Frances Cosway of White Pebble Interiors and I go into more detail about some of the other materials and fixtures you’ll need to choose for your kitchen.  You’ll learn how to assess these choices not only for their aesthetic appeal, but more importantly, for how they’ll handle the punishment they’re about to endure in your family kitchen! Frances and I talk about: Benchtops Choosing for durability Tapware Your kitchen sink And how to choose your appliances well I hope you enjoy listening to this episode!  INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  In this full interview featured inside Interior Design 101, Frances and I also talk in more detail about flatpack kitchens, and we also talk about hinges, handles and other hardware, and how to choose well for these items … and especially what handles to avoid!  Inside Interior Design 101, I also have a detailed presentation on your kitchen layout with specific dimensions and drawing requirements so you can control the outcome in your finished kitchen. Having seen a lack of drawings cause homeowners SO MANY HEADACHES, I know this presentation will be super helpful to many of you trying to work out how many drawings you need, and what they should look like. And exciting news is that my super popular, 5 Day Kitchen Design Challenge, is now living inside “Interior Design 101” as a special bonus. It’s a great burst of info that takes you through the practical formula to creating a kitchen you’ll love spending time in, and that will work for you and your family. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with every day.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-kitchen-interior-design-details  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your Kitchen Interior Design can create a kitchen that works, is durable and looks great. But are you ready for ALL the decisions and considerations you need to make? Kitchens are a big source of cost and angst in a home. They can be the hero of a family home and often the starting point for Interior Design direction for many homeowners.  They’re often a really sizeable investment, and they can be the whole reason many homeowners renovate or build in the first place. Anyone living with a dysfunctional kitchen knows how frustrating and inconvenient it can be in everyday family life.  However, kitchens that work, and look good, involve SO much many decisions and considerations. And I really encourage you to be thinking about all of these nitty gritty details as you’re designing the kitchen itself, so you know your dreams and budget are tracking in alignment with each other. We’re talking about your Kitchen Interior Design, and specifically kitchen cupboards, kickplates, doors and drawers. I hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. INTERIOR DESIGN 101 Would you like to simplify your choices, and have total clarity and confidence that your interior design will help create your beautiful, functional, feel-good home? Interior Design 101 is a self-study, DIY program. It contains the full version of all interviews from the podcast, plus extra content specifically created for Interior Design 101.  In this full interview featured inside Interior Design 101, Frances and I also talk in more detail about flatpack kitchens. These can be a great alternative, but they’re not always cheaper, and there’s specific things you need to know before going this way with your kitchen. We also discuss splashbacks and the various choices available to you there. And exciting news is that my super popular, 5 Day Kitchen Design Challenge, is now living inside Interior Design 101 as a special bonus. It’s a great burst of info that takes you through the practical formula to creating a kitchen you’ll love spending time in, and that will work for you and your family. You’ll also find full transcripts, videos, checklists, guides and so much good stuff to support you in the Interior Design of your renovation, new home or smaller project.  Interior Design 101 has been designed to help you gain clarity and confidence in all those selections and decisions you need to make for the finishes, fixtures, colours, materials and items you’ll be living with everyday.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-kitchen-interior-designSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.