Get It Right with Undercover Architect

Hello! This is Episode 207. In this episode, you’ll learn from architect, Antony Martin of MRTN Architects, how you can think about the Pre-Design Phase of your project. Often when homeowners start their project, their priority is to think about the floor plan design, how it will get created, and who will help them. And, if you’re planning on working with a design professional such as an architect or building designer, you may expect that your very first steps with them are going to be seeing pen put to paper (or mouse to CAD program!) as floor plans of your future new home or renovation get created based on your wishes and wants. However, and you’ve probably heard me talk about this before - and it’s definitely something I teach inside my online courses and program, the HOME Method - getting your design started is nowhere near as important as starting the RIGHT design. When you take the time at the beginning of your project to ensure you’re starting the RIGHT design for your future home, you’ll find your whole project experience far simpler, and far more enjoyable.  You’re able to be more strategic about the time and money you’re investing in your project.  And, it’s a fantastic way to prevent ending up in a home that doesn’t suit you, or you outgrow, or it frustrates you on a daily basis. So, what to do before you design your home: Are you not sure about what to do in this pre-design phase?  Well, you’ll love this conversation with Antony Martin then. Because it’s going to clarify a lot of the kinds of things to consider, and how helpful this process can be for shaping your thinking, your design and your project journey. And remember, to access the resources and information mentioned in this episode, you can head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/207, as I’ve popped them all there for you.  So, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focusing 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. In this episode, Antony and I discuss: Antony’s experience in the industry and how he came to start MRTN Architects How MRTN Architects have created the methodologies and processes they use in their work with clients Antony’s views on something I heard him say at the Architeam Conference, which was this: “Design is a speculation on a future outcome” and that “thorough understanding of the problem means we can create a truly long-term solution” Why MRTN Architects prize the Pre-Design phase so highly, and how they communicate this to clients when they first start working with them The three main aspects they explore during the Pre-Design Phase, and what they involve (Experience, Knowledge and Inspiration) What the main outcome is of starting a project this way Listen now. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/207 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 205. In this episode, we wrap up our little mini-series on the PAC Process, or Paid As Consultant Process, with a fantastic conversation I really think you’re going to enjoy. I’m speaking with Bec and Glenn, who recently completed a renovation of their Queenslander home in Brisbane, and used the PAC Process during their design phase. After working with me to create some initial design concept options, they worked with building designer, Aaron Wailes, who you met in Episode 203, and builder, Duayne Pearce, who was on our last episode. As a collaborative team, they developed their preferred design concept into costed construction drawings, kicked off the renovation on site, and then completed the home in early 2021. Bec and Glenn were also members of my online program, the HOME Method both before and during their project. I know it’s going to be great for you to hear their experience first-hand, and I’m super grateful for them jumping on the podcast, because it’s so valuable to get these types of insights. And remember, to access the resources and information mentioned in this episode, you can head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/205, as I’ve popped them all there for you.  So, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focusing 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. In this episode, Bec, Glenn and I discuss: Their home and project, and what they were hoping to achieve with their renovation  Why they chose to do a compact home, and the way they established their brief How and when they kicked off the PAC Process How they overcame concerns they had, plus how things changed for them from their initial ideas What really helped their project be enjoyable and go smoothly The things they love about the home, and what surprises them about it as well Plus LOADS of tips and helpful suggestions for your project! Listen now. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/205 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Get the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 204. In this episode, I am speaking with a builder who only uses the PAC Process in his residential construction business. He no longer does tenders and quotes, and will only work with clients right from the initiation of their project, so he can be Paid As a Consultant and get involved during the design phase. For him as the builder, the PAC Process is the best and only way to work with clients. Because he believes it improves the client experience, the project, and also the way he does business. I’m speaking about Duayne Pearce, and he was a guest in Season 4 of the podcast, and also my co-host for all of Season 7. He’s also a collaborator inside my online program, the HOME Method.  And now, he and I now have another business together, called Live Life Build, where we’re working with builders to improve the way they do business, so we can elevate the professionalism of the residential construction industry overall. This is the fourth episode I’m doing about the PAC Process. So, if you haven’t listened to the previous three episodes, be sure to do that now, because this episode will make a lot more sense with that background information. The PAC Process, is where you bring a builder on to be Paid As a Consultant during the pre-construction phase. They become a collaborative member of your design team, working alongside you and your chosen designer, to provide input on cost and buildability as your design develops and gets resolved. It’ll be great for you to hear just how much Duayne gets involved, and what you can expect from the PAC Process with other builders - because it’s far more than simply paying for a quote. And remember, to access the resources and information mentioned in this episode, you can head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/204, as I’ve popped them all there for you.  So, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focusing 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. In this episode, Duayne and I discuss: DPearce Constructions and the type of work they do How many designers Duayne works with using the PAC Process Why the PAC Process is the only way he takes on projects What happens as part of the initial query (when a client first gets in touch) The most common questions and concerns from clients about the PAC Process How Duayne views his role as the builder in the design process, and what he ensures he stays focussed on The greatest source of confusion in this process Plus his big tips to get it right when using the PAC Process Listen now. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/204 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 203. In this episode, I speak with a building designer who is using the PAC Process with his residential clients to improve the design process, and the client experience in their project. You may recall Aaron Wailes, who featured as our Building Designer in Season 4 (Know Your Team) here on the podcast. Aaron Wailes is the Founder and Owner of GreenCoast Building Design, a residential design practice focused on delivering form, function, personality and lifestyle to residential housing. Based in Wynnum, Brisbane, they work with clients all over SE Queensland and beyond. Remember, our PAC Process, is where you bring a builder on to be Paid As a Consultant during the pre-construction phase.  They become a collaborative member of your design team, working alongside you and your chosen designer, to provide input on cost and buildability as your design develops and gets resolved. Aaron has some great insight to share about how he sees this process working for homeowners in real life, plus tips to help you get the most from the process and your design experience, and some really great ideas about building the right team for your reno or new build. And remember, to access the resources and information mentioned in this episode, you can head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/203, as I’ve popped them all there for you.  There’s also a full PDF Transcript you can download - I don’t usually transcribe the interviews because it’s such a big job compared to my solo episodes, but we had some challenges with internet stability in this interview, so I thought it would be helpful for you to have a version you could read as a backup!  So head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/203 to grab that free PDF transcript too. So, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focusing 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. In this episode, Aaron and I discuss: GreenCoast Building Design and how things have changed since the last time he was on the podcast. How many builders he works with using the PAC Process What happens as part of the initial query (when a client first gets in touch) The most common questions and concerns from clients about the PAC Process The main things Aaron has to be aware of as a designer, knowing he’s working for, and commissioned by the client The greatest source of confusion in this process Plus his big tips to get it right when using the PAC Process Listen now. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/203   Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 202. In this episode, I’m continuing the conversation about the PAC Process, where you bring a builder on board your design team and they’re Paid As a Consultant during the pre-construction phase. In the last episode, I shared some information on why this process can be a great way to commence your project, and what you can achieve with it, plus some key things to be aware of as well - including what the PAC Process is NOT.  So, if you haven’t listened to that episode, I encourage you to stop listening to this one, and head back to it now. You’ll get to hear the WHY of the PAC Process. And we’ll be waiting here for you when you get back. In this episode, I’m sharing more about the WHAT of the PAC Process. I’ll be talking about what the PAC Process actually looks like as a step-by-step process, as well as key things to be aware of and how it can vary depending on the builder you work with. Now, remember you can download a PDF Transcript of this episode for free at https://undercoverarchitect.com/202 - so be sure to do that so you can save these notes for your records to review later. So, let’s dive in. If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focusing 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. So, let me explain how the step by step process of the PAC Process can go.  This can vary though, based on the builder and designer or architect you’re working with, the fee you’re paying, and the type of project you’re doing.  As I’m taking you through these steps, my expectation is that you’re at the beginning of your project - ie, you haven’t started your design process yet. Listen now. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/202 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello, this is Episode 201. If you’re frustrated at hearing all the stories about those who spend loads of time on their home design, only to find at the point of getting quotes that they’re significantly over budget, you’re going to love this podcast episode. You can create a custom new build or renovation that’s on budget and simpler to build - you just need the right process and the right team on board. In this episode, and actually across the next few episodes as well, I’m going to dive into detail into what I call the PAC Process, or the P - A - C Process.  This is a process where you, as the homeowner, bring a builder on board to be Paid As a Consultant (hence the P-A-C initials).  You bring them on to be Paid as a Consultant during the design phase, and they work collaboratively with you and your chosen designer (be it an architect or building designer), whilst your design is being developed. And remember, you can grab a full transcript of THIS episode as a free PDF download by heading to https://undercoverarchitect.com/201, so be sure to do that so you can review this episode as needed. So, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focusing 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. In this episode, I’ll help you understand WHY the PAC Process can be such a useful way to work through your design phase. In the next episode, I’ll be diving more into the WHAT of the PAC Process: that is, the step-by-step process, so you can have a clearer understanding of what it really involves, who does what, and what you can expect from them as well. It’s really great to be sharing this detailed information with you about the PAC Process, because I believe it to be such an awesome way to get a great outcome and experience from your renovation or new build, right from the start.  And I’m seeing time and time again how much it improves budget management, creates strong relationships within project teams, and makes projects far more enjoyable overall. And, I’m also seeing the proliferation of ‘getting paid for quotes’ or ‘charge for quotes’ info being spread through the residential building industry, and builders getting taught terrible information about how to implement this in their business. So, let’s help you get it right. Learn more about how the PAC Process can help you create a home design that’s on budget and simpler to build. Listen now. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/201 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Episode 200. Can you believe it? Sometimes I pinch myself that I’m here, that you’re here, that we’re on this journey together and it’s now 200 episodes in and almost 4.5 years old.  And so, in this episode, I want to celebrate this journey with you. Consider this my very sincere and possibly corny, love letter to you, my gorgeous podcast listener.  And, perhaps I’m showing my age, but in a nod to Heath Ledger, I’ve titled this podcast “10 Things I Love About You” as a listener of the Get it Right podcast.  (Anyone remember the movie “10 Things I Hate About You”? I think it’s on Netflix if, like me, you enjoyed that genre of movies!) I’m also going to share some personal info about my own renovation project, as my hubby and I are starting the process of renovating our own family home.  And remember, you can grab a full transcript of THIS episode as a free PDF download by heading to https://undercoverarchitect.com/200, so be sure to do that so you can review this episode as needed. So, 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. I know I can promise you that it will be all worth it. And I believe you totally have it in you to make this happen.  It may not be easy. It may be challenging at times.  You may need to have tough conversations, hear tough feedback, change tack, or pivot on your ideas and plans.  Things may get in the way. You may not progress as fast as you would like.  You may make mistakes, get frustrated with the performance of those you’re working with, or frustrated with your own performance.  You may feel uncomfortable, slow, even silly or stupid. You may feel like it’s not worth it. You may want to chuck it all in, and sell up everything and hit the road in a caravan for a year. You may want to win the lottery and just pay for someone to take care of all of it for you.  At any point, or at all the points, you may feel annoyed with your partner, with those you’re working with, with yourself. Anything that involves this much money, and this much time and effort … these feelings are inevitable. They will and can exist in small doses at different points in your project.  Please know, if they’re the constant experience, however, then you need more support and help - so look for where you can access that. Because you can and should enjoy your project. It shouldn’t be a stress-filled, difficult experience from start to finish. It can have its moments and ups and downs, but it should still, on the whole, be enjoyable. However, when something matters this much, and has this much meaning in your life, and in your long term future with your family - plus it’s something you don’t have any or much experience in - you can feel these challenging things. When you get it right though: when you access the support and guidance you need, when you get clear on your goals and create a great team who is on the same page, with a passion for helping you achieve those goals, and you know what you need to know (or have somewhere to turn to get that help), then this is definitely true: The journey will be so SO worth it - as will the home you create as well. I know it will.  From my 25 plus years of doing this, with all the projects I’ve worked on and all the beautiful people I’ve had the privilege of working with, I know this to be true for you too. So listen to my somewhat corny but very sincere love letter to you.  Episode 200 feels like a big milestone, and it’s great to be able to have a conversation with you like this one, so I do hope you find it really helpful too.  Listen now. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/200 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Episode #199. In this episode, I’m continuing on with information about what to consider if you’re planning on supplying your own fixtures, finishes and fittings when constructing your renovation or new build, and excluding them from your contract with your builder. This is Part 2 of this topic. So if you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, it’ll make a lot more sense if you go back to Episode 198 and listen to it first (https://undercoverarchitect.com/198).  Then you can come back, and listen to this episode - it will be waiting here for you. And remember, you can grab a full transcript of THIS episode as a free PDF download by heading to https://undercoverarchitect.com/199, so be sure to do that so you can review this episode as needed. So, 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. In the last episode, I went through the first two of the five main reasons I hear both homeowners and builders use to explain why it’s a good idea to source and supply your own fixtures, fittings and finishes in your project. These reasons I described are: Being able to get exactly what you want in your home, because you choose and buy it from the places and people you want to. Not having to pay for the builder to shop for you, and generally avoiding paying the builder’s margin. And in this episode, I’ll be taking you through the remaining three main reasons I hear discussed by both homeowners and builders. They are: Knowing that the items you want are in stock and available. Being able to start on site sooner rather than later. Purchase things on sale or discontinued / end-of-line items and save serious money. In this episode, I also want to spend a little time highlighting specific areas of your contract to be aware of, especially during times when (as it is at the time of recording this episode), we’re experiencing time and cost pressures in home building and renovating projects.  RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/199 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode #198, and I’m diving into the topic of supplying your own fixtures and finishes for your renovation or building project. Many homeowners seek to save money in their building project by extracting specific supplied items from the building contract. They organise to do this with their builder, and sign a contract that doesn’t include these items.  This means they (as the homeowner) then go and personally shop for, purchase and supply, all or various fixtures and fittings for their reno or new build. And at the time of recording this episode, where we’re dealing with huge demands on products, materials, trades and sub-contractors, there are builders actually recommending to homeowners that they take care of their own supply items when signing their contract. And remember, you can grab a full transcript of this episode as a free PDF download by heading to https://undercoverarchitect.com/198, so be sure to do that so you can review this episode as needed. 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. In Episode 198, I share the main reasons I hear both homeowners AND builders cite to pull the supply of fixtures, fittings and finishes out of the building contract, and make them the responsibility of the homeowner to source, purchase and supply. Listen to the episode, as I take you through the whole issue of supplying fixtures and finishes, discuss the much-held belief that you’ll save money on not getting the builder to shop for you, and that you’ll also get to avoid a builder’s margin by paying for things yourself. I’ll be doing this topic over two episodes, because it’s quite a lot of subject matter, and I want to do it justice. So, this is Part 1 of this conversation. And be sure to tune into the next episode to listen to Part 2 (Episode 199). RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/198 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is Episode #197, and in it, I’ll be talking about using a Design Construct Builder or Company for your new home or renovation.  Design Construct builders or companies can seem like a great way to manage cost and still get a custom design approach inside a one-stop shop, with a single point of contact.  However there are a range of reasons why it may not work for your project, and where it can be problematic. And remember, you can grab a full transcript of this episode as a free PDF download by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/197, so be sure to do that so you can review this episode as needed. 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 on 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. In this Episode 197, I share some key things to establish before working with a Design Construct Builder or Company. These key things can include, but are not limited to: How long will the design phase go for? How many reviews are included? What type of agreement are you signing to commission the design phase? Who owns the products of this design phase? What will this phase cost in fees? How will budgetary information be provided during the design phase? What assumptions are being made in that budgetary information? What other steps will be taken in this design phase? Listen to the podcast now as I take you through these considerations, plus loads more help, when it comes to choosing a Design Construct Builder or Company for your new home or renovation project. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/197 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode #196, and in it, I’m going to share with you how to create a comprehensive and effective design brief for your renovation or building project. This is something EVERYONE needs to do - whether they’re renovating or building new - and so, it’s worthwhile learning what to include, and the kinds of things to think about, plus specific topics to discuss with anyone else you’re doing your project with. And good news: you can grab a full transcript of this podcast episode as a PDF download by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/196 so be sure to do that, and use it as a guide for creating your design brief. So, let’s dive straight 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. Your design brief is a really critical part of planning your renovation or building project. And creating one can be a misunderstood process. I’ve seen such a range of how these get done, and how homeowners create them.  And I’ve also seen big challenges because designers don’t always do a good job of extracting the right information from a homeowner before they start their project. This means they can miss things and waste time in the design process, because the design brief wasn’t established properly upfront. I’ll talk more about this and other mistakes that get made with design briefs as we move through this episode. This is the thing: it’s not only that creating a design brief is a necessary step in your project. It’s also that the actual exercise of creating one, is an important process for you to go through in your project planning.  Creating a design brief forces you to think about, and write down, specific things that will make your project goals more clear, and then enable you to communicate the most important parts of your project with others.  And this will set you up for success as you navigate choosing your team, moving through the design phase, and being sure your design is actually delivering on the things you want in your future home. Creating a design brief is something I get a lot of questions about, so I thought I’d use this episode to take you through the things to ponder for your project, so you can get started on creating your own design brief. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/196 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode 195 of the Get it Right podcast. In this episode, we’ll be talking about the stories we tell ourselves that may sabotage our renovation or new build project. I’ll be bringing you a special guest who has bucketloads of experience in helping people bust their stories wide open. Her name is Lisa Corduff, and she’s got a huge amount of wisdom to share that I know is going to be amazing for you. Her work is something I’ve had personal experience in. And in the work I do with homeowners all over Australia, and around the world - both male and female - I know it’s going to be relevant for you too.  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. Let me share a little about Lisa Corduff, but not too much, as you’ll hear here share more of her story in our conversation in this episode. Lisa helps women upgrade their mindset, get unstuck, and change the stuff that’s not working in their life.  A solo mum of 3, she’s all about skipping straight to the hacks and techniques that actually work, while avoiding the perfectionism and overwhelm that can so easily keep us trapped.  Like it or not, we have these embedded beliefs and versions of reality we carry around in our behaviour, habits and thought-patterns, that can impact how we navigate our projects, the types of homes we create, and how well the whole journey goes for us as well. And once you’re aware of these beliefs, these stories - well, it’s seriously powerful for changing your experience, creating different opportunities, and also showing up as a truer version of yourself (which actually then enables you to create a home that really works for you). LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/lisa Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode 194 of the Get it Right podcast. In this episode, I’ll be covering the kick-off stage of your project.  This is where you’re past the ideas stage, and know you want to get going, but you’re not sure about who to hire or next steps, and who you should speak to first.  We’ll be covering the mistakes to avoid, the key ways to get it right in this stage, and an action step for you to make great progress in the right direction. 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. Well, in this episode, our 194th episode, I want to take you through something that will not only help you in your project, but in lots of other areas in your life as well.  And it’s something I learned many, many years ago, and I still use to this day.  What is it? Well, it’s a really powerful communication model, and it’s super simple to remember and use. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/194 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode 193 of the Get it Right podcast. In this episode, I’m talking about those of you, who have got your plans locked and loaded, and it's now time to sign contracts with a builder and hit go! Before you choose your builder and before you start construction, listen to this episode. So, 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, including the transcripts of this season (all packaged in a downloadable PDF E-Guide). Getting ready to sign a building contract and start construction is an exciting point in your project, because it means everything is about to become real. All the planning, preparing and decision-making you’ve been doing, is about to turn into real floors, walls and roof on your site.  However, it’s also the point at which you’ll be legally bound to someone, plus handing over loads of money on a regular basis.  Homeowners can get it so wrong at this stage. From stress and frustration, right through to half-finished homes and bankrupt builders, the risks at this stage are high.  It is possible to enjoy this stage though, and to get yourself prepared and informed so you can be actively involved in, and confident through your construction phase.  LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-before-you-start-construction Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode 192 of the Get it Right podcast. In this episode, I’ll be talking about being stuck. That frustrating feeling when you’re in the midst of your project, and you’re just finding it super hard to take any action. You’re paralysed. Unable to move forward.  It may be because you have a design you don’t love, and you’re not sure what to do now. Or you may have a design you DO love, but it’s totally over your budget, and you’re not sure what steps to take next.  Or perhaps it’s to do with a professional you’re working with, a selection you have to make, or one of the many other things involved in making your reno or new home happen. You just can’t take the next step. You’re stuck. 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, including the transcripts of this season (all packaged in a downloadable PDF E-Guide). This episode will also help with any other kind of stuckness you’re experiencing in your project. Basically that inability to make the necessary decision to move to the next stage of your project, and continue moving on your project plan. Being stuck is not great. There can be big reasons like signing off your design, choosing a team member or submitting to council, right through to small reasons, like the inability to decide on a tap or showerhead. And everything in between. That general feeling of stuckness which can come at all steps of the process, and either be something about your own situation or it can be forced upon you by a poorly performing professional or builder.  And being stuck is unfortunately super common. People can get stuck for years sometimes. I receive many emails from homeowners who are stuck, wanting help - hence why this episode is being created! Because I’ve seen this is actually a stage in many homeowners’ project journeys, so it warrants its own episode and the opportunity for me to give my suggestions here.  And in fact, knowing what happens when you get stuck, how to get out of it, and what it looks like, can often help you avoid getting stuck in the first place. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-get-unstuck-designing-building-renovatingAccess my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode 191 of the Get it Right podcast. In this episode, I’ll be talking about those who are working with someone right now on your home design, exploring all the options, reviewing sketches of floor plans being presented to you, and you’re loving all the possibilities and ideas.  If you’re working with an architect or a building designer, or who are planning to, this episode will show you what you need to consider to maximise that relationship, and really get a great outcome not only for your future home, but also in the experience you have in your project.  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, including the transcripts of this season (all packaged in a downloadable PDF E-Guide). Many homeowners get confused about how much they need a designer for, and what will add value to their project experience, and the home they create. Especially when they’re trying to juggle their budget, and determine what they’ll spend in fees vs what they’ll keep aside for the construction phase.  My perspective on this is that, for any money you spend on professional fees with ANY consultant you’re using in your project, the value they add and the money they save you should dramatically outweigh the cost of their fees.  When projects go well, that’s the feedback homeowners give. That it was SO worth it to have those people on their team and that the expertise they added and mistakes they helped them avoid far exceeded the cost of their fees. Of course, I know not everyone wants to use an architect, and an architect is not the only designer who will work with homeowners on their renovation and building plans. Of course, we also have building designers, and interior designers as well.  I’m very clear about the fact that it’s not about you only using an architect - because, as with any industry, there are those that are great at their job, and those that aren’t, but still can hang a shingle and charge people for their work.  I’m passionate about you choosing the best fit for your project, and finding the right designer for you, and then having the ability to check that they’re taking care of you and providing you with quality guidance and professional advice.  There is a perception that an architect is the most expensive design professional to use, but that’s not always the case. There is also a perception that architects only do high-end homes, and you use other designers for everything else. This is also not the case. So, it’s always worthwhile doing your research, dropping some of those preconceptions you have about any of the designer roles in the industry, and finding who’s going to be right for you. I’ll mention more about these different industry roles as we dive a little further into the podcast.  LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-home-design-architect-building-designer Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode 190 of the Get it Right podcast. In this episode I’ll be talking about those who are DIY’ing their design, and know that soon they’ll be on the hunt for a builder to make it a reality. There are many, many homeowners who design their own home from scratch, and then go straight to a builder. They see it as a means of maintaining full control on the process, and getting what they want in their future home.  But there’s some key things to pay attention to if this is your approach, so that you don’t end up making mistakes, or just overlooking the things that can make your home truly special and enjoyable to live 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, including the transcripts of this season (all packaged in a downloadable PDF E-Guide). When I practiced traditionally as an architect, I had no idea how many homeowners fully designed their own new homes and renovations. I knew that people drew up sketches with ideas for their future homes, but I thought that was where it stopped … and then they found a designer or an architect to continue the process. Since starting Undercover Architect in mid 2014, I have learned just how many of you do design your homes from scratch. As in fully design them: deciding on the floor plan, the elevations, the interior design. And even go so far as to learn software like SketchUp to be able to model them in 3D and really push and play with the design. Some homeowners just really want to do it this way.  Be it because they have a love of design and have always been really passionate about creating their own home.  Or they’ve had a bad experience with a designer in the past, and feel they want full ownership of things this time.  Or because they just feel that to maintain control and get what they really want, they need to be the one creating the design themselves. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-diy-home-design Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode 189 of the Get it Right podcast. In this episode I’ll be covering the kick-off stage of your project.  This is where you’re past the ideas stage, and know you want to get going, but you’re not sure about who to hire or next steps, and who you should speak to first.  We’ll be covering the mistakes to avoid, the key ways to get it right in this stage, and an action step for you to make great progress in the right direction. 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, including the transcripts of this season (all packaged in a downloadable PDF E-Guide). I’m super excited to be diving into this episode, where we’re talking about your first steps in kicking off your project.  This is the stage where you’re past the ideas stage, and know you want to get going, but you’re not sure about who to hire or next steps, and who you should speak to first.  We’ll be covering the mistakes to avoid, the key ways to get it right in this stage, and an action step for you to make great progress in the right direction. If you’re heading somewhere you’ve never been before, and all you’re doing is figuring out the next step as soon as you’ve made the last one, it won’t take much for you to get lost, bamboozled or taken advantage of. So, there’s two parts to this.  One is getting an understanding of the roadmap ahead. The steps you’ll need to take to get from your kick-off stage to that completed home that’s ready to move into - and even beyond, as you navigate defects liability periods and warranties after the builder is gone. Knowing this roadmap, the step-by-step process, is so critical to your success, because it means you can always anticipate what is coming up next, and who you’ll need to help you. And it means you can streamline things overall, rather than dealing with one bucket of tasks and work, and having a big gap in time before you find out what’s next. Or worse still, having to trace back over previous work because you didn’t do all the things you were supposed to do before you moved forward. The second part is about not only knowing your roadmap, but also knowing your strategy. Knowing your strategy is about making sure you start the right project, or choose the right approach to your design, your planning approvals, your overall project.  There’s loads here to help you kick-off your project with the best first steps. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-first-steps-renovating-building Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode 188 of the Get it Right podcast. In this episode, I’ll be helping you learn how to get it right if you’re at the stage in your project where you’re dreaming up ideas, and scrolling Pinterest, Houzz and Google. 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, including the transcripts of this season (all packaged in a downloadable PDF E-Guide). In this episode, I’m talking about the initial phase that homeowners enter when they know a renovation or new build is on their horizon, but they’re not taking any active steps forward into their project planning just yet. This is the stage where you’re dreaming up ideas, scrolling Pinterest, Houzz and Google, and generally getting inspired about what’s possible for your future home. Now, if you’re already past this stage, don’t tune out - because understanding what generally happens here, and what should be happening at this stage … well, that will help you ensure you haven’t missed anything you need to cover in your overall project journey. So what does this stage look like for a homeowner? It can look a few different ways. First is, you may not be even living in the property you plan to renovate, or you may not have yet bought the land you plan to build on.  Or you may be hatching plans for a rental property you already own. Or, it may be an intended renovation for the home you’re currently living in. I know I’m at this stage with our place. I’ve been in this stage for a while. There’s definitely plans to renovate, but what that looks like, how big a renovation it is, when we get started, what we do and how much we spend - well, that’s all still a bit up for grabs. It doesn’t stop the dreaming though does it! LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-dreaming-about-future-home Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is episode 187 of the Get it Right podcast. In this episode, I’ll be talking about getting serious about your project, and how this can be THE pathway to having real fun whilst you design, build and renovate your family home. 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, including the transcripts of this season (all packaged in a downloadable PDF E-Guide). I’ve really been a little nervous about publishing this episode, and sharing this information with you.  However, there’s been something I’ve especially come to realise over this past year, and I think it speaks volumes about the kinds of homeowners who end up inside the Undercover Architect community, and especially inside my online programs, that it’s worth chatting about.  Because, in sharing this information, it lets you know whether this place, this podcast, my business, the UA Community … whether it’s the place for you, and what you’re looking for. The kind of help you’re seeking for your new home or renovation.  Then if it’s not, you can sign off and not waste any more time here.  And if it is, we can double down and really get things done together. I know it can seem seductive to just pursue the fun stuff. The light-hearted stuff. To focus on the pretty parts, the bits that involve where we shop for styling items or we pick all our colours and finishes, and to pick a ‘name’ for our style and all that stuff.  But … what I’ve come to realise after all this thinking, reflecting and really diving into it, it this: When you want to do serious stuff, and get serious stuff done, you want people around you who take it, and you, seriously too.  But, that doesn’t mean we can’t have fun as well. Because we do. We definitely do. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-how-to-enjoy-your-renovation-new-build Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This season is all about helping you take action. This season is going to help you, whatever stage you’re at, take your next best steps. To avoid the mistakes many make, and have some goals to aim for, and clear action steps to achieve them. And in this episode, I kick off this season by sharing the story of how Undercover Architect all began, and the confronting lessons I had to learn in order to bring it into reality. Listen to the episode now, and stay tuned for a fantastic season! 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, including the transcripts of this season (all packaged in a downloadable PDF E-Guide). This is the 186th episode of the podcast! I can’t quite believe it.  Those 4 years have flown, and over the course of that time, I’ve been able to share a huge amount of information and awesome people with you here on the podcast.  I’m not stopping anytime soon.  I’m making plans for 2021 on the podcast, and the what and the who I’ll be bringing you over the year ahead. It’s super exciting to think of a fresh new year, and what’s ahead.  So stay tuned, tell your friends, and know there’s lots more good stuff on its way here on Get it Right. Before we jump into those episodes though, I’m spending this episode talking more generally about Undercover Architect.  I’ve realised that, even though I’ve shared in lots of other places the how and why Undercover Architect began, I’ve never really shared it here, on the Get it Right podcast.  So, tune in, as I share some nitty gritty details on how and where Undercover Architect began, and some tough lessons I needed to learn to bring it into reality! LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-about-undercover-architect-amelia-lee Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I’m super excited to be bringing this episode to you. Because in it, I’m going to share with you some really fantastic news if you’re designing, building or renovating your future home, and share with you some great insight into what will ultimately create that feel-good home you can’t wait to live in. SHOW NOTES: Since I started Undercover Architect in mid 2014, I’ve been able to help thousands and thousands through the website and this podcast.  In fact, the podcast is now at over 750,000 downloads, which is incredible.  And through Undercover Architect’s online programs, I’m directly helping, and have been able to personally help, over 1,600 homeowners with various aspects of designing, building and renovating their family homes. I’m always looking for what creates true enjoyment and success in residential projects. Whatever the scale or size, budget or location, what is it that really matters and makes not only the experience of building and renovating an enjoyable one, but that also creates a fantastic, feel-good, family home at the end of that journey. I’ve come to realise that it comes down to four key ideas. There’s 4 things that make designing, building and renovating your family home do-able, enjoyable, worthwhile, and save you time, money and stress along the way. Before I dive into these 4 things, these 4 key ideas, I want to briefly mention my exciting news - and be sure to stay tuned until the end of this episode, because I’ll share more detail. So what is this exciting news? Well, it’s this. We’ve made some big changes to how you can work with me more closely in your new build or renovation project. Announcing, The HOME Method. (Head here to learn more >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/) The HOME Method is available to join now, and it offers incredible value for you to get such comprehensive support and help in your project.  As well as accessing these much-loved online programs, I’ve also increased our Q & A’s to fortnightly so I can provide more regular help and input to member’s projects.  And you still get access to our great member benefits as well. So, if you’d like to learn more and join us, then head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ for more information. Ok, so I’m going to dive into these 4 things, these 4 key ideas that improve your project experience, and the type of home you create. And I’m going to take you through them one-by-one. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-the-home-method   To learn more about The HOME Method, head here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is a special episode where I’ll be sharing how to choose the right builder and some of the mistakes I see homeowners make when it comes to selecting the builder for their new home or renovation project. SHOW NOTES: Before we jump into the episode, I want to mention a mini-course that I created a little while ago and have been super excited to see well over 100 beautiful people jump into already. It’s called ‘Choose Your Builder’, and it’s designed to give you actionable and practical information so you can be more confident when researching, interviewing and selecting your builder.  (Head here to learn more >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/choose-your-builder/) Inside, you’ll find my video workshop, “The 5C’s to Choosing Your Builder” where I give you a simple framework to remember and use as you’re looking for, and speaking with builders - plus I outline all the right questions to ask. I also have a series of short videos outlining the common mistakes many homeowners make when choosing a builder, and working with them in their project - so you can totally avoid these in yours. There’s also some helpful resources curated for your builder checks, and a PDF download you can use to interview your builder, and remember all the questions I want you to ask them … because this is how you get the answers you need to make an informed decision. And, when I created this program, I ran it live and we had one of the most epic Q & A sessions that went for 90 minutes … and that’s also included in the mini-course. We covered so much ground, so many varying topics in that Q & A, your questions are bound to be answered in there too. All of this is packaged up and ready to dive into, and move through at your own pace, and make it super easy to get informed, plus the resources you need to make a confident decision about your builder. Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/choose-your-builder/ to join now. A fair few weeks ago, I posted a question in my instagram stories. It said: “What makes you nervous about selecting a builder?” It was great to see the responses I received, and they were all very common nerves that I’ve heard from homeowners many, many times before. They included worries such as: Unexpected costs  Whether they’ll be there for the entire project Integrity of the company Transparency Being ripped off The builder claiming to be able to build just to win the job That their workmanship will not be of a good standard Plus lots more along similar lines. And really a lot of these nerves boil down to this: Can I trust this builder? Can I trust them to do a good job of building my home, to do what they say they’ll do, to be honest and have integrity in the way they run their business, build my home and the way they take care of me? So, I want to share with you 3 really useful things to remember when you’re choosing your builder so you can find one you can trust, and then work with them really well in your project.  And don’t forget, if you want to dive into this in much more detail, then the ‘Choose Your Builder’ mini-course is a great way to do that. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-how-to-choose-the-right-builder To learn more about my Choose Your Builder mini-course, head here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/choose-your-builder/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! I’m back with Part 2 and more of my recap of the Australian Bushfire Building Conference.  There was a consistent theme to the conference about the role you as a homeowner, living in your home, can do to ensure its bushfire resistance - that can actually have a more significant impact than its construction. Something that’s not just about its construction.  So in this episode, I’ll be talking about that. Let’s dive in (and check resources for more helpful links and the transcript to this episode). SHOW NOTES: In my research for this ‘Rebuild + Build Better’ season, I saw a lot of examples where properties were only saved because someone had been there to defend them.  There was a vivid example from the recent fires where a woman returned with her family to find her home was still intact - and she was shocked because so many others were lost. As she surveyed her home, she found an area of charring on the back of the property, up the rear wall, but that was the extent of damage.  Later, she crossed paths with a volunteer who had stayed and walked the streets with other volunteers to help defend from the fires. And this volunteer, on finding out where this woman lived, said that she had seen flames ignite the home, but she’d been able to put them out before they took hold of the home.  When I attended the Australian Bushfire Building Conference in September, I was really interested to hear a lot of discussion about this topic: focussing on the importance of defence in any bushfire building strategy.    In the last episode, I shared a lot of the information that was focussed on what we can do in regards to designing and building for bushfire prone sites, or in bushfire prone areas.  In this episode, I want to take you through what was discussed in regards to active defence, and its role in protecting your property and home in the event of bushfire - or any fire for that matter.  So, let’s hear more. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-australian-bushfire-building-conference-part-2  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! It’s been an amazing season on the podcast so far, and it’s been great to hear from those of you who have found this information helpful.  And thanks to those of you who have been reviewing the podcast so it can reach more people, and also sharing this resource with others who need to hear it. I’m so, so grateful that you’re getting this podcast out there, and to know that homeowners all over are learning how to Get it Right with Undercover Architect. In mid September, I attended the Australian Bushfire Building Conference. Held in the Blue Mountains, they opened it up to virtual attendance, which was fantastic. It was 2 days of incredible speakers, so many insights shared, and such great info, that I wanted to share it here on the podcast as well.  In this episode and the next, I’m going to be sharing the highlights and big takeaways from the Conference. There’s something here for everyone, so, let’s dive in (and check resources for more helpful links and the transcript to this episode). SHOW NOTES: This conference I wanted to talk about in this episode is called The Australian Bushfire Building Conference … and I was grateful to be able to hear from so many speakers from all around Australia at this event.  The Blue Mountains is, as cited during the conference, the most bushfire prone area in Australia for properties - with 73% of properties on bushfire prone land.  The speakers were largely from NSW, with other speakers presenting virtually from other locations around Australia. They covered a huge range of topics - and had a huge amount of experience in this area. The Conference was … heavy.  I think with the year that 2020 has been, the immediacy of just what so many went through during those Black Summer fires, and have endured in the past fire events as well, may seem like a distant memory for many of us.  It was quite confronting to be reminded of the intensity, the scale and the sheer destruction those fires caused, and what fire fighters, volunteers, and local communities were and are dealing with in facing those fires, and on their recovery paths now. I thought it would be worthwhile to take you through the highlights and big learnings for me, the big a-ha’s I felt would be relevant to anyone who is rebuilding, or wanting to build a better, more resilient and bushfire resistant home. Speakers that I share on this podcast include: Commissioner Rob Rodgers Shane Fitzsimmons (Resilience NSW) Justin Leonard, CSIRO Dr James Davidson and Clive Ba-Pe, JDA Co. Sam Vivas, Viva Living Homes So, let’s hear more. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-australian-bushfire-building-conference-part-1  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! It’s the last part of my conversation with David Keane from Solve My Claim, in what’s been an amazing interview (over 5 episodes) full of such helpful information and insights into home and contents insurance, insurance claims, and how to ensure you’re protected when you need to be. Solve my Claim provides expert support and assistance to anyone struggling with their insurance claims.  And it’s been fantastic to hear members of the UA Community have been getting in touch with Solve My Claim to get the help they need - and have been sharing this incredible information with others as well. David has more great information to share in this episode. So, let’s dive in (and check resources for more helpful links and the transcript to this episode). SHOW NOTES: Solve My Claim exists to provide expert guidance, to help you navigate through claims disputes and problems that can be difficult to resolve. They provide an extraordinary service to people who can often feel so worn and lonely.  First they’ve often been through a traumatic experience that’s resulted in significant loss or damage to their home and belongings. And then they’ve had to battle their insurance company to get the money they thought they were due, to help them get back on their feet.  I know from personal experience, it’s a harrowing experience, and you can feel like all the insurance company is doing is trying to wear you down so you settle for what they’re offering.  Solve My Claim does such important work in being in your corner, and providing you with the expertise and support you need to argue your case in the necessary language and parameters required, so you can get what you’re owed. So, let’s hear more. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel (can you link that to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-current-home-insurance-solve-my-claim-part-2  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! In this episode, I’m back with more from David Keane, Solve My Claim. Solve my Claim provides expert support and assistance to anyone struggling with their insurance claims.  David is an expert on all things home and content insurance, and he’s going to help us understand and decipher the differences between insurance policies, and what to check so we know we’re covered. This is essential listening for anyone choosing a home and contents insurance policy, or wanting to review their existing policy to ensure they’re covered properly. So, let’s dive in (and check resources for more helpful links and the transcript to this episode). SHOW NOTES: David is the Director of Solve My Claim, and he has been involved in the insurance industry for more than 24 years. During this time, he was constantly amazed at how many people came to him with insurance problems, complaints, disputes and claims problems. In every instance, he was able to resolve those claims. He realised that there was nowhere for these people to turn, and that realisation started a process that resulted in the creation of Solve My Claim in 2014. Many people feel disempowered when making an insurance claim, because the company has a team of experts acting for them, and you are all on your own. Well not any longer! Solve My Claim is levelling the playing field, and ensuring that you have the best possible opportunity to solve your claim. David Keane is an expert in how to choose insurance policies for your home and contents, and what to be aware of in assessing and deciphering those PDS documents!  It’s definitely worthwhile understanding the pitfalls and hazards of insurance policies BEFORE you have to make a claim. So, let’s hear more. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel (can you link that to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-the-right-home-insurance-solve-my-claim-part-1See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I’m back with Part 2 of my conversation with Amy Beattie, Mortgage Broker and owner of Good Green Home Loans. We’re covering more info about financing your new build or renovation.  This will include talking about some of the many factors that banks and lenders consider to determine your viability, and the fact that banks can put black marks on postcodes or specific criteria that can be completely outside of your control.  All super helpful knowledge to have when you’re seeking finance for your new home or renovation, especially if your site is challenging or in a bushfire-prone area. If you haven’t listened to Part 1, pause this podcast, and head back do that now. We’ll be here when you get back.  Otherwise, let’s dive into Part 2 now. SHOW NOTES: Good Green Home Loans is here to help you find the right home loan at a great rate – using only environmentally responsible lenders who aren’t using their profit and power to support the fossil fuel industry. Good Green Home Loans helps you make sustainable choices with your home loan, which is fantastic for exercising your buying power. When we feel powerless to create change, it’s important to remember how powerful our personal spending decisions can be. We can send a great big message to the companies who seek to serve us, by demanding better from their businesses. Amy is a wealth of knowledge and experience in helping those buying, building and renovating, find suitable, competitive loans, from ethical lenders. So, let’s hear more from Amy now. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-home-loans-101-lending-criteria-amy-beattie-part-2See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I’m looking forward to this episode and introducing Amy Beattie to you. Amy is a Mortgage Broker and owner of Good Green Home Loans, a mortgage broking business that puts sustainability at the forefront of its lending decisions. This is part 1 of my conversation with Amy, and in it, she shares loads of helpful information about borrowing for your renovation or new build. And especially what you need to know when your site is more challenging, or in a bushfire prone area. Let’s dive in now. SHOW NOTES: Good Green Home Loans is not your typical mortgage broking service. Good Green Home Loans is here to help you find the right home loan at a great rate – using only environmentally responsible lenders who aren’t using their profit and power to support the fossil fuel industry. Amy Beattie is a mortgage broker. However, she’s not like most mortgage brokers I know. And when I first heard about her business, Good Green Home Loans, I was so excited that it not only existed, but that it was being driven by someone with such purpose and commitment to their mission, they were willing to build a business on it. Amy believes that Australia’s largest corporations have a responsibility to be leaders when it comes to protecting the environment. With their continued investment in the fossil fuel industry they aren’t there yet. The greatest way we can encourage change is by moving our valuable business elsewhere. This is where Good Green Home Loans can help. When you’re about to set up a potentially decades-long relationship with a lender for one of the biggest investments in your life, Amy helps you not only achieve a great outcome for your mortgage, but vote with your dollar for a future that improves the environment, reduces your carbon footprint, and she also makes a donation on your behalf to a charity or not-for-profit organisation helping the environment as well. So, let’s hear more from Amy now. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw] for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-financing-your-new-build-renovation-amy-beattie-part-1See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This episode is Part 2 of my conversation with Andy Marlow and Dick Clarke from Envirotecture. In this episode, we’re talking about Passive House, and specifically discussing the opportunity it provides to protect your indoor air quality. The bushfires and smoke pollution that many areas in Australia suffered from really tested the air filtration capacity of the Passive House system.  We’ll also be talking about the active systems you can use to create better fire protection for your home. And we’ll be talking about Andy and Dick’s other business, Passive House Design and Construct, and what it offers for those wanting to manage budget and sustainability whilst creating a passive house certified home. If you haven’t listened to Part 1, pause this podcast, and head back do that now. We’ll be here when you get back.  Otherwise, let’s dive into Part 2 now. SHOW NOTES: Let me introduce you to Dick Clarke and Andy Marlow from Envirotecture. Dick Clarke is principal of Envirotecture, is an Accredited Building Designer with over 35 years experience, focusing exclusively on ecologically sustainable and culturally appropriate buildings, as well as sustainable design in vehicles and vessels, and has received many Design Awards. Andy Marlow is a Director at Envirotecture, holds both Bachelors and Masters degrees in Architecture, is a certified Passive House Designer and has extensive experience in sustainable design at a variety of scales. Andy is currently a Board Member of the Australian Passive House Association.  And recently, they started a new business, Passivhaus Design and Construct. Frustrated by the big challenge many experience in their new home journey - that is, creating a sustainably designed home that can be delivered on budget, they decided to marry together the design and construction in a total delivery model. You’ll enjoy cost certainty, quality design, an excellent build and a certified passive house… because it’s their passion to make homes that are better for everyone. And remember too, you can grab a full transcript of this episode, plus get all the links I mention by heading to the show notes. So, let’s hear more from Andy and Dick now. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel >>>  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-passivhaus-design-construct-envirotecture-part-2See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is the first of 2 episodes where I’ll be sharing my conversation with Andy Marlow and Dick Clarke from Envirotecture, a building design and architecture practice in Sydney specialising in sustainable and passivhaus homes. This conversation is packed full of fantastic advice and insights into how you design a home that is affordable and sustainable, and what to do if it also needs to be bushfire resistant as well. Both Andy and Dick have such great knowledge to share - I’m really looking forward to sharing their wisdom with you. So, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: Let me introduce you to Dick Clarke and Andy Marlow from Envirotecture. Dick Clarke is principal of Envirotecture, is an Accredited Building Designer with over 35 years experience, focusing exclusively on ecologically sustainable and culturally appropriate buildings, as well as sustainable design in vehicles and vessels, and has received many Design Awards. Andy Marlow is a Director at Envirotecture, holds both Bachelors and Masters degrees in Architecture, is a certified Passive House Designer and has extensive experience in sustainable design at a variety of scales. Andy is currently a Board Member of the Australian Passive House Association.  And recently, they started a new business, Passivhaus Design and Construct. Frustrated by the big challenge many experience in their new home journey - that is, creating a sustainably designed home that can be delivered on budget, they decided to marry together the design and construction in a total delivery model. You’ll enjoy cost certainty, quality design, an excellent build and a certified passive house… because it’s their passion to make homes that are better for everyone. And remember too, you can grab a full transcript of this episode, plus get all the links I mention by heading to the show notes. So, let’s hear more from Andy and Dick now. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel >>>  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-affordable-sustainable-design-envirotecture-part-1  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This episode is Part 2 of my conversation with architect, Julie Firkin. In this episode, we’re talking about Bushfire Community Centres, working with architects in the recovery efforts, and what it means to help someone after such a traumatic event. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 of my conversation with Julie Firkin where we discussed the Bushfire Homes Scheme, pause this podcast, and head back do that now. We’ll be here when you get back.  Otherwise, let’s dive into Part 2 now. SHOW NOTES: For over 10 years, Julie Firkin Architects has been bringing creativity and problem-solving prowess to projects big and small in and around Melbourne. An award-winning firm, headed up by architect Julie Firkin, they pride themselves on a personal and people-focused approach to architecture. Julie has a hands-on approach to all projects and designs by visualising herself in the space which helps to create homes that are a joy to live in and spaces that are both practical and beautiful. In the article from MARK Magazine I mentioned in our previous episode, in Julie’s interview with Marg Hearn, Julie said this: “I’m always interested in innovation and in new solutions, as opposed to architects who find a groove and do what they do well all of the time. It was obvious from media reports that people in bushfire-affected areas had a lack of community refuges to go to. In speaking to the CSIRO, I discovered that providing official community refuges is a contentious undertaking, because authorities generally encourage people in high-risk areas to evacuate, and with a refuge to go to, they might decide to stay. Nevertheless, new codes and standards for community bushfire refuges are being developed.  Following the fires, some 52 locations were identified by the state premier and the chief officer of the CFA [Country Fire Authority] as being at the highest risk for bushfire. These locations became candidates for the development of New Township Protection Plans. In setting up the design studio, I selected Forrest, a beautiful hamlet in the Otway hinterlands, as the working site. Each student was asked to design a unique concept that would serve as a community refuge during fire season and a public amenity at other times. They explored the broadest possible variety of building types – town halls, schools, visitors centres – and, as part of the process, sat in on a town meeting and sought input from a local council. Should the opportunity arise for that township to gain a refuge, both council and community will have access to 15 design concepts as a source of inspiration for further discussion.”  I wanted to hear more about how Julie had worked with students in exploring what Bushfire Community Centres could offer as a strategy for building more resilient and defendable communities in the event of a bushfire.  And I was also super keen, given Julie’s experience in New York after 9/11 and in the 2009 Black Saturday fires recovery, to hear her views on how she saw architects could work with people recovering from such a traumatic event.  And remember too, you can grab a full transcript of this episode, plus get all the links I mention by heading to the show notes. So, let’s hear more from Julie now. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel >>>  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-bushfire-home-design-julie-firkin-part-2See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, I’ll be talking about what’s been done in the past to help homeowners with the design of their homes when rebuilding after bushfire. I’ll also be sharing some specific resources you can access if you need design help with your rebuild. And I’ll be introducing architect Julie Firkin to you. She’ll be sharing some insights about bushfire home design, and her involvement in a scheme established by the Victorian Government after the Black Saturday fires in 2009. So, let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: For over 10 years, Julie Firkin Architects has been bringing creativity and problem-solving prowess to projects big and small in and around Melbourne. An award-winning firm, headed up by architect Julie Firkin, they pride themselves on a personal and people-focused approach to architecture. Julie has a hands-on approach to all projects and designs by visualising herself in the space which helps to create homes that are a joy to live in and spaces that are both practical and beautiful. Julie studied and practiced internationally and worked for several years at renowned practices. She brings this breadth of experience to her private practice, weaving a local approach and an international perspective into everything she does. While Julie Firkin Architects has the skills and expertise to deliver a range of projects, from residential to commercial, small to large, Julie has a personal interest in both sustainable and bushfire-resistant design. Her design for a bushfire-resistant house was featured by the Bushfire Homes Service following the Black Saturday Bushfires in 2009 and Julie has also taught extensively on the subject. In this episode, I wanted to take a little time to talk about a scheme that was launched by the Victorian government after the Black Saturday fires of 2009. It was called the Bushfire Homes Service. I’ll be sharing some information on what it involved, and also introducing architect Julie Firkin to you, who will tell us about her involvement, and the house she designed for it. And I’ll also be talking about what’s been done in the design industry to provide support and help to those impacted by the 2019 / 2020 fires, and where you can go for help with your home design and build right now. And remember too, you can grab a full transcript of this episode, plus get all the links I mention by heading to the show notes. So, let’s hear more from Julie now. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel >>>  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-bushfire-home-design-julie-firkin-part-1See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is Part 2 of my conversation with Jeff Dau, from Ember Bushfire Consulting.  In this episode, I’ll be talking more with Jeff about building and renovating in bushfire prone areas, or on land that has a bushfire overlay.  Specifically, we’ll be discussing how to manage a BAL 40 or BAL Flame Zone rating, understanding distances to vegetation, sprinkler systems, and some of the other strategies you can use in building well in these areas. Plus other info I know you’ll find helpful. If you haven’t listened to Part 1, pause this podcast, and head back do that now. We’ll be here when you get back.  Otherwise, let’s dive into Part 2 now. SHOW NOTES: Jeff Dau, is a Bushfire Consultant with Ember Bushfire Consulting. EMBER Bushfire Consultants are a team of qualified, accredited and experienced fire industry professionals. They are all accredited Bushfire Consultants under the Fire Protection Association of Australia accreditation scheme, and their accreditation is your assurance that their knowledge and advice is current and that our delivery of service is of the highest level. Co-Founder, Jeff Dau, has had 23 years of experience as a professional in the fire services industry. Jeff has a Bachelor of Applied Science (Environmental Science) and two Graduate Diplomas being Fire Safety Engineering and Bushfire Protection. Ember takes a “whole of life” approach, offering consulting services for all stages of development. This includes a range of consulting services focussed on assessing new development and construction on Bushfire Prone Land, and prescribing bushfire protection measures to minimise the potential impact of bushfires on life and property. Ember services local government areas across the Central Tablelands, Southern Tablelands, Snowy Mountains, South West Slopes and South Coast in NSW.  So, let’s hear more from Jeff now. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw] for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-bushfire-consultant-jeff-dau-part-2  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we meet Jeff Dau, who is a bushfire consultant.  If you have a bushfire overlay, or discover any type of bushfire requirements on your land’s zoning, a bushfire consultant will be an essential team member to help shape your design, and your approach to building well. This is part 1 of my conversation with Jeff Dau, and is packed full of helpful know-how and insights.  Let’s dive in now. SHOW NOTES: EMBER Bushfire Consulting are a team of qualified, accredited and experienced fire industry professionals. They take great pride in delivering professional consulting services in a personalised, cost effective and service oriented manner. Their work is provided at the highest industry standard and they are all accredited Bushfire Consultants under the Fire Protection Association of Australia accreditation scheme. Co-Founder, Jeff Dau, has had 23 years of experience as a professional in the fire services industry. Over recent years, this has been in a range of fire safety fields including fire safety engineering, bushfire protection, building certification and regulation and urban planning.  Ember takes a “whole of life” approach, offering consulting services for all stages of development. This includes doing bushfire assessments, as well as pre-purchase advice, and larger scale advice for developments and subdivisions. Ember services local government areas across the Central Tablelands, Southern Tablelands, Snowy Mountains, South West Slopes and South Coast in NSW.  Many of these areas have been heavily impacted by the Black Summer fires in Australia, and so I’m really looking forward to talking with Jeff about how homeowners in bushfire prone areas can build homes that are more resistant and resilient to bushfire events, and what we’ve seen in these bushfires that can help us build better in the future. In this episode, Jeff will be sharing some really helpful info, including understanding more about Bushfire Attack Level, or BAL Ratings; what to know about Asset Protection Zones, and more details about AS3959, the Australian Standards for Construction in Bushfire Prone Areas … plus loads more.  So, let’s hear more from Jeff now. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw] for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-bushfire-consultant-jeff-dau-part-1See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is Part 3 of my conversation with David Clarke from Solve My Claim. In it, David will be helping us understand some specific terminology in your insurance policy, and also how to protect yourself when making your claims. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 or Part 2, pause this podcast, and head back do that now. We’ll be here when you get back.  Otherwise, let’s dive into Part 3 now (and check resources for more helpful links and the transcript to this episode). SHOW NOTES: In November, 2008, we went through The Gap storms. A big Silky Oak fell on our roof and cracked it open. Rain poured in through the ceiling and window heads, over furniture and rugs, and through the timber floorboards into the garage below. A few days later, heavy rains came again, and flooded the home. Then ensued a 13 month battle with our insurer debating what was ‘flood damage’, what was ‘water damage’, what was damage made by a ‘storm-created opening’. We finally settled for 5X what they initially offered … it was the difference between $20,000 and $100,000.  The stress was beyond anything I’d experienced. We really felt each step was an attempt to wear us down and settle for what we were being offered. My hubby and I both seemed to alternate being stubborn and not wanting to back down, so we just kept going.  David Keane started Solve My Claim in 2014 after realising people in this situation often had nowhere to turn. For David, this is about levelling the playing field, and about providing social justice at times when people really need it.  Having worked inside the insurance industry for so many years, David got fed up with seeing it unfairly handle people’s claims, and then what that would mean for the long term livelihood and lifestyle of those impacted. In an industry full of jargon and specific processes, it can be unnerving for anyone tackling it for the first time, especially when they have lost their entire home and belongings. And so, Solve My Claim provides support and fairness for those struggling with their insurance claims. They use their knowledge of how insurance policies work to argue for those making claims. And they’ve achieved more than $35 million worth of increased claim settlements in the past 3 years alone. Solve My Claim provides expert support and assistance to anyone struggling with their insurance claims. Their main office is in Alice Springs, and they assist with claims across the whole nation of Australia. In Part 3 of our conversation, David will help us understand some specifics about your insurance policy so you know what you’re entitled to. And what to do about getting independent information to check what you’re being offered is fair.  And, we discuss the steps straight after you’re dealing with damage and loss, so you can notify your insurer as required PLUS get you ducks in a row as well. So, let’s hear more. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel (can you link that to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1yGH5xSdvyYipHiSvPfbxw for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-making-an-insurance-claim-solve-my-claim-part-3See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we’ll be talking with David Keane, from Solve My Claim. We’re specifically talking about insurance claims, and what might happen if you don’t want to rebuild what you lost, or have only suffered partial damage to your property. If you haven’t listened to Part 1, pause this podcast, and head back do that now. We’ll be here when you get back.  Otherwise, let’s dive into Part 2 now (and check resources for more helpful links and the transcript to this episode). SHOW NOTES: Solve My Claim provides expert support and assistance to anyone struggling with their insurance claims. Their main office is in Alice Springs, and they assist with claims across the whole nation of Australia. Solve My Claim’s director, David Keane, has been involved in the insurance industry (primarily in the area of claims management, loss adjusting and assessing services), for more than 24 years.  Solve My Claim has expertise in property, motor vehicle, business and other commercial claims, and can assist in a wide range of circumstances. They are unique in the industry, in that they are genuinely independent.  They have no affiliations with any insurance company or brokerage, and they do not receive any commissions from any source. In essence, they are their clients’ very own ‘claims department’, and they only work for them. Solve My Claim has helped many hundreds of Australian families resolve disputed claims from Cyclone Marcia (Rockhampton 2015), Cyclone Debbie (Whitsundays 2017), Sydney Hailstorms (December 2018) and Townsville Floods (February 2019), plus a large number of regular non-catastrophe claims, and have achieved more than $35 million worth of increase claims settlements in the past 3 years alone. In Part 2 of our conversation, I ask David about some specific insurance claim scenarios, and what he suggests to best navigate them so you can protect yourself, and set yourself up for a successful process. So, let’s hear more. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-making-an-insurance-claim-solve-my-claim-part-2See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! In this episode, I’m kicking off a 3-part episode conversation with David Keane from Solve My Claim. Solve my Claim provides expert support and assistance to anyone struggling with their insurance claims. And having gone through this personally, I’m so glad to introduce David Keane to you. If you ever need to purchase insurance for your home, or need to make a claim on your policy, what David will be sharing is essential knowledge so you don’t get caught out.  David is an experienced and wise voice to help you navigate what can seem confusing. And especially during the stressful time of making a claim, this is such helpful guidance. So, let’s dive in (and check resources for more helpful links and the transcript to this episode). SHOW NOTES: David is the Director of Solve My Claim, and he has been involved in the insurance industry for more than 24 years. During this time, he was constantly amazed at how many people came to him with insurance problems, complaints, disputes and claims problems. In every instance, he was able to resolve those claims. He realised that there was nowhere for these people to turn, and that realisation started a process that resulted in the creation of Solve My Claim in 2014. Many people feel disempowered when making an insurance claim, because the company has a team of experts acting for them, and you are all on your own. Well not any longer! Solve My Claim is levelling the playing field, and ensuring that you have the best possible opportunity to solve your claim. Personally, and I’ll share more about this in a future episode, my husband and I once spent 13 months battling our insurance company to secure our claim. During the storms that went through The Gap in November, 2008, our home suffered a fair amount of damage including that from a large Silky Oak tree that fell on the house.  After dealing with our insurer, and then their underwriter, and then the Ombudsman, we finally received a settlement that was over 5 times the initial claim offer; an amount actually reflected the true value of loss and damage.  Which was a great result, however all up, it was 13 months of stress and battle, and needed huge determination and tenacity. A massive folder thick with letters and schedules and quotes. I was pregnant and had our 2nd bub during this time. After the storm, we were left with one room in the house that was liveable. We were also mid renovation, and so we were having to fix up the damage to the house at our own expense as well.  If Solve My Claim had existed, I would have used them in a heartbeat.  With the recent bushfires in Australia, and then also other significant weather events such as hail storms and flooding, many homeowners are now dealing with how to move on, and navigate the insurance process to enable them to rebuild and restore some normalcy to their lives. If this is your situation, I am so sorry you’ve had to go through this. David Keane has helped many homeowners get much better outcomes from their insurers and be in a better position to plan their recovery. In fact, they’ve achieved more than $35 million worth of increased claim settlements in the last 3 years. In Part 1 of our conversation, you'll hear why Solve My Claim exists, some specific things to know about insurance claims involving total loss and your sum insured, and specific policy inclusions that may give you extra scope (such as additional benefits clauses etc). And also how to assess early cash settlements being offered. So, let’s hear more. Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-making-an-insurance-claim-solve-my-claim-part-1  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Be sure to subscribe to this season, and also head to Undercover Architect’s YouTube Channel for video interviews. All interview transcripts are available at www.undercoverarchitect.com/rebuild Welcome to the first and introductory episode of Season 12, Rebuild + Build Better. This season of the podcast is a range of conversations with some fantastic experts and professionals.  And we’re diving into a range of topics related to rebuilding after bushfires, building or renovating in bushfire-prone areas, and, more generally, designing and building more resilient homes. In this introduction episode, I’m going to introduce the season give you some background information, and  highlight some of the guests we have coming up.  And I’m also going to encourage you to stay tuned, even if you aren’t rebuilding or building in a bushfire prone area, because there will be some incredible gold nuggets of advice and wisdom shared in this season that can really help anyone who is wanting to build a more resilient home. And it’s also worth mentioning that we’re sharing the videos of these interviews on Undercover Architect’s YouTube channel as well, and all the transcripts will be available on the blog too.  So whether you like to listen, watch or read, we’ve got you covered. I know some rebuilding don’t have internet access still, or are working off their mobile data, so I thought maybe a friend may be able to print the transcripts and pass them on … so please do that if you know of someone who needs this info. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For resources mentioned, and a full transcript of this episode, head to >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-rebuild-and-build-better  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This episode is a one-off I’m doing to catch you up on a few things that have been happening behind the scenes at Undercover Architect and to also share news on what’s on the horizon. I’ve got some super helpful info in this episode, so stay tuned. SHOW NOTES: It’s been a very strange time (COVID19, preceded by fires, floods, and where we live, plagues of insects). I hope wherever you are, and whatever has been happening for you, that you’re faring well, and staying safe through all of this. Yet, in the background of all of this, I have been passionate about creating and producing things that can be really helpful for homeowners who are planning to renovate and build, or already in the process of navigating that journey. In this episode, I update you on some fantastic help I’ve been creating over the past couple of months. Firstly, if Kitchen Design is something you need help with, and you’d like to learn the practical formula to designing a stunning kitchen you'll love spending time in ... and that works for you and your family, check out the Kitchen Design Challenge we’ve created at https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/kitchen-design-challenge/ Secondly, if you’re wanting to learn how to find out what it will cost you to build or renovate your home, have reliable information that you can then move forward with, and know how to stay on track (and manage your costs) along the way, then find out more information about How to Set and Stick to Your Budget here https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/set-stick-to-your-budget/ Thirdly, kicking off next Monday, the 18th of May, you’d like to spend 6 weeks getting personalised support from me, as well as learning the best way to navigate your journey towards your future home, and be really well set up as a member of “How to Get it Right”, then head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ And be sure to tune in in a few weeks time, plus tell those you know it’ll help, that we’re starting a new season called REBUILD + BUILD BETTER to help those rebuilding after bushfires, and also help anyone wanting to build more resiliently, or build in a bushfire prone area … which frankly, is a heck of a lot of areas these days given the mapping. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: The Kitchen Design Challenge can be found here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/kitchen-design-challenge/ How to Set + Stick To Your Budget >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/set-stick-to-your-budget/ Our LIVE Round of “How to Get it Right” (starting 18 May, 2020) >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ Read the transcript of this episode here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-the-latest-help-renovating-building  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This, believe it or not, is our final episode for what has been an epic season called “Interior Design Basics”. So, stay tuned, as I do a wrap-up for the season, give you some extra tips and ideas for your home’s interiors, and share some other great info with you. SHOW NOTES: As I said upfront, Interior Design Basics has been an epic season … with this episode being Number 25, and it’s been running since October last year. Phwoar hey? So, let’s do a bit of a wrap-up and reminder of the episodes, and I’ll share some extra tips along the way. You can use this as a reminder of episodes you might want to relisten to, or perhaps missed during the season. Throughout this season, I also shared with you information about our online course, Interior Design 101.  It’s an amazing course, which contains the full versions of all of the interviews I conducted throughout this season, plus loads more helpful info.  What’s brilliant is that we’ve broken each of the interviews into each of the individual questions, so you can literally find exactly what you’re looking for very quickly.  There’s also a design layout video for both bathrooms and kitchens … and I’ll talk a little bit later about the taster quickstart course I created, called the Kitchen Design Challenge, as you may be curious about that too.  If you haven’t checked out Interior Design 101, be sure to do so. It’s a DIY, self-study course, so you can jump in, take your time to work through it, and then grab the template interiors schedule that’s in there, and start working away on your selections for your home. Head to www.interiordesign101.com.au to learn more about the course, and dive in. Alright, let’s begin the season wrap-up! I really hope you enjoy this episode. Listen now. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: Learn more about the online program, Interior Design 101 >>> www.interiordesign101.com.au Learn more about our fantastic Kitchen Design Challenge >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/kitchen-design-challenge/ For other links mentioned on this podcast, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-id101-interior-design-basics-guideSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re back this week with the gorgeous Jessica Bellef, freelance stylist and author of the amazing book “Individual: Inspiration for creating a home that is uniquely your own”.  This is part 2 of my conversation with her, so if you haven’t listened to the last episode and Part 1, then stop now … and go back to do that straight away. We’ll be here when you’re done. Otherwise, let’s dive into Part 2, and continue hearing from Jess right now. SHOW NOTES: “We all deserve to live unapologetically in homes that reflect who we are. Instead of a cookie-cutter approach, we crave spaces that make us feel secure and connected, nurtured and enriched.” - Jessica Bellef, “Individual” “Individual” is described as a visual feast of 15 quirky Australian interiors brimming with the personality of their owners, where the inspiration is not about buying more stuff but putting your personality into your place. Jessica Bellef is a freelance stylist and writer, who contributes regularly to major interiors publications such as Inside Out and Home Beautiful. She was Temple & Webster's founding Head of Styling, which cemented her position as a home styling commentator and gave her insight into how Australian's make a house a home. Jessica has taught extensively on the topic of creative design. You’ll continue to hear in this episode how knowledgeable Jess is about ways that you can style your home’s interior to really bring out the best of it, and you.  Through the way you choose the colours, furniture, textures, materials and objects you surround yourself with, you can, as Jess says” create an authentic space in which you can thrive. I really 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.  Inside Interior Design 101, you’ll also find a huge range of interviews on all things Interior Design, including 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-individual-jessica-bellef-part-2 Buy Jessica’s book, “Individual” here >> https://amzn.to/33PJTeWSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the first in a 2-part interview with Jessica Bellef, freelance stylist, and author of “Individual: Inspiration for creating a home that is uniquely your own”. I’m super excited to be bringing Jess to you, and sharing all her amazing insight and tips for creating a home that truly suits and reflects you. Let’s dive in. SHOW NOTES: A showroom is no place to live. It’s like the set of a play … A showroom isn’t a personal space in which to be. It’s no place for the tangle of layered memories and the mercurial nature of daily life. - Jessica Bellef, “Individual” Jessica Bellef is a freelance stylist and writer, who contributes regularly to major interiors publications such as Inside Out and Home Beautiful. She was Temple & Webster's founding Head of Styling, which cemented her position as a home styling commentator and gave her insight into how Australian's make a house a home. Jessica has taught extensively on the topic of creative design. Her book, “Individual: Inspiration for creating a home that is uniquely your own” was published in Oct 2019. “Individual” journeys to 15 truly unique homes that are authentic reflections of the people who inhabit them, from an art-filled city terrace to a magical seaside shack and a 1970s-era palace in the ’burbs.  It’s packed full of practical, actionable tips, and Jessica has a brilliant way of giving you how-to’s that are achievable regardless of the size or type of home, and whether you would call yourself stylish or not. I really 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.  Inside Interior Design 101, you’ll also find a huge range of interviews on all things Interior Design, including 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-individual-jessica-bellef-part-1 Buy Jessica’s book, “Individual” here >> https://amzn.to/33PJTeW See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

My guest for this episode is Craig Thomas, Managing Director of Caribou. With over 20 years in the industry, he is SUPER passionate about lighting and the impact it can have on how our homes look, feel and function. He’s got loads of helpful tips to share with you. SHOW NOTES: Homeowners often create their lighting design through early conversations with their electrician. By then, you can already have missed the opportunity to create a beautiful, functional result in your home, through successful (and affordable) lighting design. Craig Thomas, Managing Director of Caribou, has over 20 years in the business, and has a huge wealth of knowledge and experience to share when it comes to achieving brilliant results with your lighting design and selections. Caribou is a professional, dedicated and experienced team providing lighting solutions for residential, retail, commercial and industrial projects. Based in Brisbane, Australia, Caribou works directly with architects and designers, lighting engineers, developers and builders, wholesalers, electricians and homeowners.  For the UA home-owning audience, Caribou offer architectural interior and exterior lighting solutions to create a lifestyle that enhances your home inside and out. They understand that each project is unique and personal. Their extensive lighting collection ensures they have the solution to suit your home. And if you need help with your lighting design, they can do this too. There’s loads of helpful information packed into this episode. I really hope you enjoy it - listen now. I really 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.  Inside Interior Design 101, Craig answers additional questions such as: How to provide creative and functional lighting solutions in your bedrooms. He has some great tips for subtle lighting that helps with night-time navigation in the home, and creates a great effect. We also talk about the assumptions people make with lighting that he finds he’s regularly busting And he takes us through in detail how to choose the right lighting for your main areas based on lumens, watts and the other metrics that describe lighting types and fixtures. The full interview with Craig is now inside Interior Design 101. 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-lighting-design-caribou  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is the second of a 2-part interview I have with Evan Montero, Co-founder and managing director of DIY Blinds … so if you haven’t listened to the last episode, stop now, and go back and listen to it now. Or, stay tuned to listen to part 2 of my conversation with Evan. SHOW NOTES: Plantation Shutters have become a popular choice for window furnishings. They’re a big investment, and so getting it right is essential to avoid disappointment and cost blowouts. DIY Blinds is an online ordering site for window furnishings. With a huge range of products from blinds, to curtains, to plantation shutters, you have the ability to request fabric samples, choose your fabric, learn how to measure and install your blinds, and order them online … all from your sofa.  The DIY Blinds website does a great job of stepping you through the things you need to consider, and how to make your selections. And they’re made in Australia, mostly available within 2 weeks, and also have a 5 year warranty. Co-Founder Evan Montero and I are continuing our conversation by talking about plantation shutters. These are a super popular choice and also can be a big investment, so Evan has some great tips to think about.  We also talk more about key design decisions and some fantastic things you can do with your window furnishings if you think about them during the design of your home.  And Evan shares more information on the mistakes he sees homeowners make. Plus, he talks us through how to confidently order your window furnishings online.  Having done it myself, I know it can feel a little nerve-wracking that you may stuff up your measurements and end up with a bunch of window furnishings you’ve paid for but that don’t fit properly.  DIY Blinds has got some great support and online resources to help you do this, and can also talk you through how to get it right for your home. I really 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.  And as a member of Interior Design 101, Evan is offering a fantastic saving on your DIY Blind orders … which frankly could pay for the cost of the course on its own! 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-diyblinds-plantation-shuttersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People who are renovating or building new will often leave window furnishings until the last minute, or until after they’ve moved in. As a result, they miss huge opportunities.  So, this episode and the next will be brilliant for you to see what’s possible, and why thinking about them during the design phase is so important. DIY Blinds is an online ordering site for window furnishings. With a huge range of products from blinds, to curtains, to plantation shutters, you have the ability to request fabric samples, choose your fabric, learn how to measure and install your blinds, and order them online … all from your sofa.  The DIY Blinds website does a great job of stepping you through the things you need to consider, and how to make your selections. And they’re made in Australia, mostly available within 2 weeks, and also have a 5 year warranty. Evan is really passionate about homeowners knowing what they need to know, and also what’s possible in really elevating the detailing and finish of a home when you get these things factored in early to your project.  And he’s also really passionate about giving homeowners access to more affordable and great quality products by offering them online, and empowering them to directly access what they want, in a way that’s easy to understand. In this first part of our interview, Evan shares info about why DIY Blinds started, some of the biggest mistakes homeowners make about window furnishings, and specific info on blinds and curtains.  I really 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.  And as a member of Interior Design 101, Evan is offering a fantastic saving on your DIY Blind orders … which frankly could pay for the cost of the course on its own! 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-diyblinds-curtains-blindsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Choosing the best paint product can seem confusing. Are they really that different? The answer is “YES”, and this episode shares why. Josh is the Interior Products Technical Manager at the DuluxGroup. What does that mean? Well, Josh and his team are the ones responsible for all the science and technology behind the paints and products created by Dulux. If you’re picturing labs and white lab coats, you’re not far wrong.  Josh has a Bachelor of Applied Science in Chemistry and has worked as an Industrial Chemist. He’s won awards for his skills as a technologist, and I’m super excited to be bringing him to the UA Community. I see homeowners get really focussed on their colour and material selections for their interiors, but then will often not get involved in the actual product specification process.  This is particularly relevant for painting, when you may be using a painter for your project, and often simply going with the product and brand they use and recommend.  It’s worth understanding though, that not all paints are the same, and specific areas require specific products for long-term performance, durability and ease of maintenance. In this interview, Josh helps us understand more about the science of interior paint products, and what to consider when making your selections, whether it’s: for different surface types such as your woodwork or walls or ceilings for different rooms such as your wet areas or living spaces and for different gloss levels as well.  It’s amazing to see how much testing and research goes into the creation of the paint products we use, and how that can help us have products that stand the test of time and survive family life in our homes. I really 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, Josh and I talk through in detail about specific things to know for your Interior Paint Product selections, and making the best choice. 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-dulux-paintSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Frances and I see homeowners regularly make some common mistakes when it comes to their interior design.  This can be related to  who they choose,  how they go about their design and selections,  decisions they make about specific elements of their interior design elements they forget to consider in the design phase that then get stuffed up during construction right through to missed opportunities and expensive errors So, it made sense for us to talk about the ones we feel are not only regularly made, but have the most significant impact in diminishing the feel and functionality of your home. Listen carefully, so you can learn how to avoid these for your project, and hopefully save yourself money, stress and drama not only in the process of your interior design, but in the result you create in your finished home. 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.  Inside Interior Design 101, Frances and I share additional mistakes that we see people make, and our recommendations for what to do instead, so your project can go more smoothly and you can get the result you want in your home’s interior design. 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-worst-interior-design-mistakesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’re designing your new home or renovation, have you started thinking about the lighting design?  I find many homeowners will leave their lighting design quite late in their project. Some even leave it as late as construction, waiting for their walk-around with their electrician at frame stage to finalise their choices on lighting numbers, types and positions. As you can imagine, waiting until your walk-around can cause extra costs and disappointment, as often your contract will not have a sufficient allowance for light fixtures, and you’ll be hit with a variation … and the higher margin to go along with it. Lighting can and should be a design process you work through similarly to the rest of your interiors. Considering how it will work functionally, as well as the feeling and mood it’s capable of creating, means you’ll optimise what’s possible for your budget and your home.  There’s a lot of terminology when it comes to lighting, and specific things to look at when choosing light fixtures that will provide the atmosphere you’re seeking. Whether it’s to light a specific task, to create a focal point or feature in a room, or to provide flexibility in the various ways a room or space needs to function, so much is available to you with lighting design.  Lighting is an aspect of your interior design that can have a HUGE impact on the feel and function of your home. So, including it in your design process is essential for maximising what’s possible. 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.  Inside Interior Design 101, Frances and I talk in more detail about lighting design, so be sure to 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 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-lighting-design-interior  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you create the ideal Interior Design ‘look’ for your family home? Liz Hayward from Hayward & Co gives us tips on moodboards, creating interior palettes, and making confident choices for your interior design. Liz is a firm believer that a quality, thoughtful, tailored interior should be available to everyone and that amazing results can be achieved on almost any budget. Following her years spent in professional roles working in and around the interior design sphere, the establishment of a bespoke interior decoration agency represents a new and exciting phase in Liz's creative journey. Based on her instinctive ability to see the possibilities of any space she enters, Liz has developed a design process that is as calm and considered as the interiors she ultimately creates. Combining the many snippets of inspiration she collects from the decors she encounters each day with the tastes and input of her clients', Liz designs timeless interiors that reflect the unique personas of the people that inhabit them. Liz’s work and skill of creating beautiful spaces was recently recognised when she was awarded a top finalist position in the Home Beautiful - 50 Most Beautiful Rooms competition. Hayward & Co is based in Sydney, and offers a range of interior design and decorating services, from full collaborations for the duration of your project, through to one-off consultations. They also provide a great e-decorating service where you can work with them online to get assistance quickly and affordably.  And Liz has recently launched a new on-tap interior design online service as well, so there are loads of ways you can access interior design support for your project, and work with her. 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.  Inside Interior Design 101, Liz and I talk in more detail about creating your interior design palette and choosing finishes and fixtures that will truly suit you, your lifestyle and help you feel confident about the home environment you’re creating. Check out Interior Design 101 as the full interview is available in there now, and available as video and audio version. 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-liz-hayward-interior-designer  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.