Get It Right with Undercover Architect

Hello! This is Episode 274, and in it, I want to follow on from my last episode about the 3 challenges when working with a volume builder, and in this episode, share some key tips about how to get it right in a volume builder process. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/274] if you haven’t listened to my last episode, it’ll also be great info for you if you’re considering a volume builder for your project. It’s Episode 273. Now, working with a volume builder is very different to a custom design approach. But it doesn’t mean you have to endure a particular type of project experience, build a substandard home, or get locked out of being involved in seeing your home dreams become reality. Understanding the best way to work with a volume builder is great for improving your project experience, and helping you create a great home as well.  We have HOME Method members that have taken a volume builder approach in their project for a range of reasons, and being educated and informed has helped them make a big difference to the process, and their home. So, listen in, as I share some tips to help you if this is the approach you’re thinking of choosing for your new build. 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/274. 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/274 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 273, and in it, I’m going to talk about a part of the industry that dominates new building in Australia, and in many other parts of the world, and that’s Volume Builders. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/273] Known by a few names, Volume Builders are the part of the industry that offer you a start-to-finish process to deliver a new home, from visiting their displays, choosing one of their pre-designed versions off the plan, and selecting your finishes from their range of pre-selected options, to then seeing your home through its construction process. Also known as Spec builders, Project Home Builders, Off-the-Plan builders, they can vary in how they offer their product and services. They are usually seen as the least expensive way to build a new home, and the fall-back for many who feel it’s the only option they can afford, or when a custom home feels out of reach or too uncertain a process to navigate. However, they’re not always the least expensive way to build a new home. And there can be a lot of challenges with this method of building, especially if you’re seeking a particular kind of home and project experience.  In this episode, I’m going to cover the top 3 challenges I see homeowners experience when building a new home with a volume builder, that impact the home they create, and the project experience they have. 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/273. 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/273 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 272. In it, I’m going to answer a question I commonly receive from homeowners.  And this question is: I want to do my project as an Owner Builder. What do I need to be aware of with this? [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/272] Homeowners will have different reasons for thinking about being an Owner Builder for their reno or new build. However, there are some REALLY big risks to be aware of when becoming an Owner Builder, that many aren’t aware of at all, and can be quite naive about. And so, in this episode, I’m going to take you through ten specific risks I see happen for Owner Builders, so if you do choose this option, you can choose it with your eyes wide open, and fully informed of what you’re taking on.  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/272. 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/272 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 271, and in it, I’m talking with Anthea Maynard, who is the Dilapidation Manager and Senior Building Consultant at Melbourne-based consulting business, BSS Group. And we’re discussing Dilapidation Reports. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/271] Now, for many, the first time you hear of a Dilapidation Report can be when you see it as a condition of your Development Approval to commission one for the neighbouring properties around your home before you renovate or build. Or, you may be super concerned about a neighbour complaining that your project will potentially damage theirs.  Or, you may also suddenly see that YOUR neighbour is commencing a project, and they’ve done nothing to consult you, and you’re concerned about the potential damage it might cause to your property. This is where Dilapidation Reports come in.  So, I’m really looking forward to sharing this episode with you, and getting Anthea’s help to explain them further. 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/271. 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/271 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 270. In it, I’m going to share 5 key points to know about your roof design.  If you’re getting ready for your renovation or new build, or you’re currently working on your floor plan design with an architect, building designer, draftsperson, directly with a builder, or you’re even designing your own home, this episode will be super helpful for you. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/270] And remember, whilst your home is lines on a page, it’s actually not too late to make changes that will fix it, improve it, and ensure it’s a great quality home that improves your lifestyle and makes the aspirations, effort, time and money you’re investing in it all worthwhile. I’ll be taking you through 5 key points to consider when it comes to your roof design and construction, and to be discussing with your team. And the earlier you can discuss this, the better, because as you’ll hear, your roof design is best considered early in your design process, in order to get it right. The roof design has the capacity to completely change the look of your home. And it also needs to be detailed and constructed so it sheds water appropriately, makes maintenance more straightforward for you, and doesn’t cause issues with condensation within the roof structure, keeping roof framing and insulation damp and riddled with mould. Many homeowners don’t really think about their ideal roof design. And they also don’t necessarily know how to describe it, the shape of it, or the specifications for it.  In this whole process, a lot is left to chance, with a lot of assumptions that a builder will appropriately detail and construct it. And yet, so many parts of the industry don’t appropriately detail and construct the roof, creating long term headaches, home degradation and financial issues for homeowners. If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, as well as loads of extra videos, links and photos, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/270. 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/270 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 269. In it, I’m going to discuss a post I recently saw on Facebook that really had me shaking my head about what people are enduring when building and renovating their homes … and I want to help you NOT go through the same thing, so we’re going to talk about it. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/269] The post began: “I’m honestly so done with building. This is my first home and first building experience and I HATE it. I’ll never build again.” And then, at my last check, within 2 days of the original post there were over 100 comments of people in varying levels of agreement with this. Stories of delays in site starts, price rises even though builders promised there wouldn’t be, projects taking two years or more to complete. It went on and on and on. The author of this original post shared their own story, and I could understand why they never wanted to build again. They’d had promises made and broken, extensive time delays, issues with neighbours, and a raft of other challenges.  I didn’t blame them at all for never wanting to build again. I also wondered, if the construction experience had been like this, what was the quality of their home going to be like? And would their home cause them more headaches down the track as they discovered the shortcuts the builder had taken during the build. The whole thing was just heart-breaking. And of course, at this point, they’re well into the process, so changing the situation requires a considerable amount of effort and work. Over my 28+ year career as an architect, I’ve sat down across the table from so many builders, developers, designers and other industry professionals who’ve told me that, because the client doesn’t know better, won’t pay more, won’t be able to tell the difference, there’s no need for them to offer more or better. The inference being: whilst the consumer accepts whatever we’re dishing up, we’re not going to improve, enhance or add to what we’re doing.  This extended from conversations about choosing better, more durable materials, to including better design features, right through to improving the energy efficiency and sustainability of a project. So, one of the many reasons I started Undercover Architect was because I knew that the residential design and construction industry could and CAN do better for those it serves: you, the homeowner. But I knew that for YOU to know it could and can do better, you need to be educated about what “better” actually looks like. And so, my work and mission with Undercover Architect is based on this: if I teach you what the process of building and renovating a functional, well-designed, energy efficient, sustainable and good quality home looks like, you’ll then be better equipped to find the right people and processes to achieve that for yourself.  And through your education, you have the ability to demand better. And then the standard and professionalism of the industry is elevated overall, as it rises to deliver better to educated clients. Listen now to the episode to learn the 7 ways to navigate your project so you don’t get to the end saying “I hate it, I’ll never build again!” If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, as well as loads of extra videos, links and photos, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/269. 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/269 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 268, and in it, I’m going to dive into 5 problems I commonly hear from those who are starting their renovation or new build project. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/268] If you’re listening to this podcast episode, and you’re dreaming about your future home but not sure when you’ll make your project formally happen … Or perhaps you’ve decided this year is going to be the year to get serious about bringing those future home dreams to life … Or maybe you’re already on the way, and either choosing your team, or already working with them … Then this episode will be helpful for you. I want to take you through the 5 problems I regularly hear about from homeowners when starting their renovation or new build.  However, before I jump in, I want to mention this: it’s worth understanding how differently the word ‘start’ can be defined for people in their project journey, and what ‘start’ actually represents.  Because, if you think you’re still dreaming about your project, BUT you’re listening to this podcast, then as far as I’m concerned, you’ve already started your project journey.  And it’s now a case of when you’ll turn this preparation and research into action, and take the necessary steps you need to. But many don’t think of their early investigations as ‘starting’. And so they waste a huge amount of effort, energy and time as a result. So, I’m going to help you be more efficient and productive in that regard. Because frankly, who has any time to waste and fluff around these days! You’re here: so you’ve already started your project. Even if you’re still dreaming up ideas, you’ve still started. So, I’m really glad that Undercover Architect can help you get it right. Don’t think you haven’t started just because you haven’t got serious about things, or spent any money. If you’re here listening. You’ve started. So get started well, avoid these common mistakes, and be productive with your time and resources so you don’t get misled. Listen now to the episode to learn the 5 problems to avoid when starting your renovation or new build. If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, as well as loads of extra videos, links and photos, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/268. 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/268 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 267, and in it, I’m continuing my conversation with Joost Bakker, and learning more about his Future Food System, and approach to building and living without waste. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/267] If you haven’t listened to Episode 266 and Part 1 of this conversation, I recommend you head back and catch that episode first, as this episode will then make a LOT more sense! You can head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/266 to do that now. In this episode, we talk about the nuts and bolts of some of the materials and construction of Future Food System, particularly reviewing the floor and wall systems, and the choice of products and materials to meet Joost’s criteria of recyclability and biodegradability at end of life. And at the end of the conversation, Joost actually gives us a walk around of his own home to explain some of the design decisions he makes and suggests for your project (I’ve included that video in the resources for this podcast if you’d like to see it!) If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, as well as loads of extra videos, links and photos, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/267. 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/267 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 266, and in it, I’m so SO so looking forward to bringing you my amazing guest, Joost Bakker. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/266] In this and the next episode, Joost generously shares with us his zero waste approach to his projects and work, and in particular, his latest project: Future Food System.  Future Food System was built as a temporary home in Melbourne’s Federation Square, with the goal of “reimagining the home as an ecosystem that provides shelter, energy and nourishment for its inhabitants.”  And as with well-functioning ecosystems, Future Food System was fully self-sufficient: producing its own energy, water and food, and managing, recycling and utilising its own waste, all within an urban environment on a very compact and well-designed, 2 bedroom, 89m2 footprint. Joost shared the journey of construction openly, and once the building was completed, Chefs Matt Stone and Jo Barrett lived on site. And once COVID restrictions eased, they held tours and served meals to guests in an intimate setting.  The project was an amazing demonstration of what is possible in residential living and lifestyle with the Future Food System approach. I can’t wait to share this conversation with you, as you’ll hear more about Joost’s work, his philosophies and views, and his incredible wealth of knowledge about how we can build and live differently, that’s been established over decades of creativity, research, experimentation, testing and validation. If you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, as well as loads of extra videos, links and photos, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/266. 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/266 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 265, and in it, I’m talking with architect, Emilio Fuscaldo of Nest Architects, about Green Roofs and all electric homes. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/265] If you haven’t listened to Episode 264, that was Part 1 of my conversation with Emilio, where we discussed the green roof he did on his own home.  Emilio shared a lot of information about the design, materials, construction and detailing of that green roof, so it’s worth listening to if you haven’t.  Just head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/264 for more information. In this episode, Emilio continues to share some learnings from that very first green roof he did on his own home. And, we also get to talk about a more recent project he’s completed for clients in Melbourne, Victoria.  They also included a green roof in their renovation and extension.  Plus, they decided to do an all electric home, focussing on air tightness, various methods of heating and cooling and specific strategies to save energy overall.  It’s a great run through of a recent project and how effective certain design decisions were in improving their home overall. 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/265. 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/265 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.