When Sustainability Meets Real Life: The Perfect Home, with Shauna

Hello! This is Episode 364, and in it, HOME Method member, Shauna, is back with Part 2 of our conversation about building her new family home. In this episode, we dive deeper into the long-term view Shauna took with this home, and how that shaped her decisions around budget, investment, and design. And you’ll hear how she tested her thinking along the way, continually asking herself if her choices were still delivering a better result than the alternatives. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/364] If you haven’t listened to Part 1 of my conversation, be sure to head ot Episode 363, where you’ll hear Shauna introduce her project, and discuss how she embarked on her design process balancing sustainability goals, her budget and a complex site. You can find it at www.undercoverarchitect.com/363 In this episode, we explore how Shauna navigated her decision to go with a Design-Build builder, and how she set herself up for success in that relationship. She followed my guidance on risk awareness, and you’ll hear the smart ways she ensured clear communication, transparency, and alignment right from the start. Shauna shares how she handled the contract and construction process, and the tools and mindset that helped her manage changes, call out errors, and advocate for what she needed, without fear of how she’d be seen or friction in her communication. And we also talk about how she decided where to invest her time and energy, and the thoughtful, strategic trade-offs she made to suit her lifestyle, family needs, and values, while still achieving a high-performing and deeply satisfying home. As someone who has the benefit of living now in her finished home and being aware of what she’s achieved, as well as her key learnings along the way, I know Shauna has a wealth of knowledge and information to share with you that will be hugely beneficial for your project - whether you’re building new or renovating. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus links to some helpful resources, you can find that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/364. Now, let’s dive in! RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/364 Accessing my free '44 Ways' E-Book will simplify sustainability and help you create a healthy, low tox and sustainable home. You can download your free copy here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/ways Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 363, and in it, I’m chatting with HOME Method member, Shauna, who has recently completed her new family home.  Shauna is a sustainability practitioner by profession. So, what does someone who works in sustainability do when creating their long-term family home?  Well, you’ll hear how she approached her new build with intention, clear objectives, and a pragmatic approach that balanced the realities of her budget and site with her overall goals and wishlist in her newly built home. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/363] In this episode, I talk with Shauna about how she identified her objectives, and worked to create an incredibly comprehensive Design Brief, using the HOME Method Brief Builder Template and Room Notes as her guide and template.  You’ll hear how she very quickly realised that this wasn’t about striving for perfection - which in fact can be paralysing for many in their projects, and a slippery slope in all the competing demands of a renovation or new build project journey.  Instead, Shauna focused on what mattered most - identifying her key objectives, understanding her constraints, and making deliberate, well-informed choices to do the best she could within them. We talk about how she navigated some serious challenges: purchasing a derelict home in a brilliant location, tackling a steep and complex site, managing the project as a single parent, and balancing her values with a realistic budget.  Along the way she made trade-offs whilst provisioning for future upgrades and created a home that supports the sensory needs of her family. You’ll hear us discuss how she used a Design-Build builder who handled the design inhouse and how she was actively involved throughout, ensuring she could get access to site and review works as they progressed.  Throughout the project, Shauna stayed clear on her values, true to what she was seeking to achieve, and used her Design Brief and well-researched preparation to guide her, backing herself to make the best decisions along the way.  What I love most is how this project has ended with Shauna feeling proud, confident, and content, not only because she’s created a comfortable and functional home, but also now lives in an authentic expression of her priorities and purpose. This is such a fantastic conversation, especially for those who worry that they can’t do “everything perfectly.” Shauna’s story shows what’s possible when you stay connected to what matters and give yourself permission to build the best you can, with what you have, right now, ensuring you’re prepared and well-researched to realise the full potential of your budget, site and life. I hope you find this conversation super helpful as you get ready for your project. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus links to some helpful resources, you can find that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/363. Now, let’s dive in! RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/363 Accessing my free '44 Ways' E-Book will simplify sustainability and help you create a healthy, low tox and sustainable home. You can download your free copy here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/ways Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 362, and in it, I’m sharing what to do if you’re not using the PAC Process - or Paid As Consultant Process - but still want to ensure you don’t get massively disappointed when your project gets priced before you start construction. Perhaps you still want to competitively tender your project? Or you’ve found out about the PAC Process too far into your project? Or your architect or designer isn’t interested in doing it at all, or has another method they’re suggesting to you? This is something I get asked about a lot. So, in this episode, I want to give you clear guidance on what you can do instead. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/362.] Because if you can’t, or don’t want to, use the PAC Process, there are still really practical ways to reduce your risk, get accurate cost feedback, and avoid the heartbreak of working for months, and spending a lot of money, on designing a home you ultimately can’t afford to build. We’ll talk about using Quantity Surveyors and Building Estimators, what to look for in a designer or architect’s process, how to get more meaningful builder input even without a formal collaboration, and what to understand about ECI (or Early Contractor Involvement) and Negotiated Tender if they’re options you’re considering.  More importantly, I’ll address some of the common fears around this, such as whether early builder involvement locks you in, or removes your ability to compare prices.  So whether you’re at the start of your project, midway through your design, or about to go to tender, my goal is to help you feel more informed and empowered to navigate this next stage with clarity. As always, if you’d like to access a full transcript of this episode and links to the resources I mention, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/362. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/362 Accessing my free '44 Ways' E-Book will simplify sustainability and help you create a healthy, low tox and sustainable home. You can download your free copy here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/ways Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 361, and in it, I’m answering the questions I didn’t get to during our recent live webinars. I hope these answers are interesting to hear, and perhaps help you feel more equipped and confident in navigating your own project. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/361.] Whenever I host a live session, I’m always blown away by the type and curiosity of the questions that come through. They show me just how thoughtful, considered, and committed you are when it comes to getting your home right - and how much you’re navigating behind the scenes as you do it. Sometimes, though, we run out of time before I can respond to everything. So in this episode, I’m circling back to answer the questions I didn’t get to live, but that I know many of you are wondering about too. We’re covering a whole range of topics: from how to know if you’re adding value to your property, to managing issues with tradies, planning your kitchen design, dealing with appliances purchased too early, and getting your builder on board during pre-construction. So whether you’re choosing materials, talking to trades, or just starting to explore what your project could look like, I know there’ll be something here that helps you feel more informed and in control. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/361. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/361 Accessing my free '44 Ways' E-Book will simplify sustainability and help you create a healthy, low tox and sustainable home. You can download your free copy here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/ways Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 360, and I’m back with Part 2 of my conversation with builder, Anthony Hickey, from Melbourne-based Two Tone Construction. Anthony recently completed a renovation project with HOME Method members, Tanya and Paul, and as he said in Part 1, they’ve redefined his benchmark for his ideal client! In this episode, Anthony and I talk about how to set up effective communication between a builder and a client, especially when you’re a client who has invested in getting educated and informed, and you’re wondering how a builder might welcome your input and involvement in your own project. Anthony also shares his recommendations for how to find the right builder to work with, how to work well with your builder, and when to get them on board to achieve the best outcome. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/360] If you haven’t listened to Part 1 of the conversation, head back to Episode 359, where you’ll hear Anthony discuss his pre-construction involvement, and the processes he used to set up a great working relationship with his HOME Method clients. You can find that at www.undercoverarchitect.com/359. If you’ve been wondering what to expect during the construction of your new build or renovation, and how to have a great project experience by choosing a builder who respects your desired investment and collaboration, you’ll love this conversation. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, you can find all of that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/360. Now, let’s dive in! LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/360 My free '44 Ways' E-Book will simplify sustainability for you, and help you create a healthy, low tox and sustainable home - whatever your dreams, your location or your budget. Access your copy here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/ways Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 359, and I’m super excited to bring this conversation to you. For some time on the podcast, we’ve been hearing the stories of HOME Method members in all different parts of their projects. Some right at the beginning, some mid-way through and keeping us updated over their project timeline, and some who have moved into their finished newly built or renovated home. I’ve been getting so much great feedback from you about these episodes. About how much you’re loving these stories, as well as the people and homes in them, and how helpful they are for understanding more about your own project as well. However, we’ve only been hearing from the homeowner's side. And so, in this episode, I want to introduce you to Anthony Hickey, the Director and Builder in Melbourne-based building business, Two Tone Construction. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/359] Anthony recently finished a renovation for HOME Method members, Tanya and Paul. And this is a great opportunity to hear about how he found it to work with educated and informed homeowners, and how it impacted his work and the renovation project overall. I regularly get messages from homeowners who are nervous to upskill themselves further in their project, concerned they’ll frustrate their professional team, or their designer, architect or builder will find it difficult and annoying to work with a client who is wanting to know more, be better prepared and informed as a collaborator in their own project. If that’s what you’re worried about, or you’re simply curious about the role you can play in your project, and how your team may potentially receive that, then this episode will be fantastic for you. And if you’re keen to understand what a builder thinks makes a great project and a great client, and their suggestions for how to ensure your project goes well, stay tuned. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, you can find all of that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/359. Now, let’s dive in! LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/359 My free '44 Ways' E-Book will simplify sustainability for you, and help you create a healthy, low tox and sustainable home - whatever your dreams, your location or your budget. Access your copy here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/ways Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 358, and in it, I’m sharing something a little different. Over the years of running my signature online program, HOME Method, we’ve welcomed hundreds of homeowners who are navigating all kinds of new builds and renovations.  And when someone joins, we ask them a few questions - not just to get to know them, but to better understand how they’re feeling, what they’re hoping for, and where they need support. In today’s episode, I want to share some of those answers with you. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/358.] Because whether you’re just starting out or already mid-project, I know it can feel like everyone else has it figured out - and you’re the only one who’s unsure or overwhelmed. But that’s simply not true. So in this episode, you’ll hear the real, honest reasons people join HOME Method - in their own words. What they’re afraid of. What they’re excited about. What they want to learn. And what stage of the project they’re in when they start looking for help. My hope is that by hearing this, you’ll feel seen, supported, and reminded that you’re not behind in your renovation or new build - you’re just creating something that really matters to you. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus information on the resources we discuss, you can do that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/358. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/358 Accessing my free '44 Ways' E-Book will simplify sustainability and help you create a healthy, low tox and sustainable home. You can download your free copy here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/ways Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 357, and it’s Part 2 of my conversation with HOME Method member, Ellen, about her new build and the construction process of her family home in Ballarat, Victoria. It’s been under construction for around 7 months. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/357] If you missed Part 1 of this conversation, head back to Episode 356 so you can catch up on what we’ve discussed. You can find that at www.undercoverarchitect.com/356. Remember too, that Ellen originally appeared on the podcast  in Episodes 336 and 337 to discuss all the steps and decisions that led up to construction, so if you’d like to learn more about the design process, builder and team selection, and feeling prepared for a project like this, I’ll pop the links to those episodes in the resources for this podcast. Now, as I wrapped up Episode 356, we were discussing this idea of ‘there is no perfect’. There was more to that conversation, so we kick off this episode talking more about this concept of ‘there is no perfect’ and how you can empower yourself to still realise an incredible outcome for your project, whilst not overwhelming yourself with an unattainable goal of perfection. I also ask Ellen about her thoughts on the psychological aspect of calibrating your standards and expectations for your project with the demands a project can place on you, so you don’t get apathetic or fall into overwhelm. Ellen talks about finding the balance, especially when there’s competing priorities. Ellen also shares with me what helped her overcome her initial overwhelm in her project journey, and the importance of understanding the work you’ll need to do. In her words: “You may as well do the work well-informed”! Plus, we talk about making bold choices with selections, and Ellen also talks about what she’s most looking forward to when the home is finished and they get to move in. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus links to some helpful resources, you can find that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/357. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/357 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 356, and in it, HOME Method member Ellen is back to give us an update on the construction of her new home in Ballarat, Victoria. Ellen and her partner are doing a knockdown-rebuild, and creating a single-storey home for their family, which includes Ellen and her partner, and their two teenage kids. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/356] Ellen was on the podcast in Episodes 336 and 337 discussing her project journey up to commencement of construction. If you haven’t had the chance to listen to those episodes, I encourage you to check them out as you’ll hear more about the earlier parts of the process, choosing her team and getting the design right. This has been a long process for Ellen and her family, so it’s super exciting to have her back to talk about the build process itself, and how she’s set herself up for success and a smooth process overall. In this episode, Ellen and I talk about the early signs she started getting from her builder that communication and collaboration was going to be a positive experience during construction. We also discuss how useful it’s been to make selections earlier in the project, so that construction itself can be managed more effectively and calmly. Ellen also shares how she’s developed confidence in her selections, and how she’s worked with her team to feel comfortable that the significant and impactful factors for her home and build are taken care of as construction commences. Plus, Ellen is a psychologist by profession, so I love understanding her insights into human behaviour in a project such as this, and her suggestions for dealing with hiccups, managing your mindset and well-being and overcoming concerns as the project unfolds. This is a fantastic conversation with so many gems of wisdom - I hope you really enjoy it. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus links to some helpful resources, you can find that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/356. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/356 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello! This is Episode 355, and I’m back with Part 2 of the latest project update with HOME Method members, Louise and Zane, who are renovating their Melbourne Californian Bungalow. They’re early in their design phase, and whilst they have a floor plan design that’s starting to tick the boxes on their wishes and wants, it’s still sneaking up over their budget.  This is a great insight into the early design stages of a project, how you juggle competing demands and priorities, as well as trying to ensure you’re capturing all the details so you manage your risk and avoid omitting something important down the track. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/355] If you haven’t caught Part 1 of this conversation, head back to Episode 354 so you can listen or read the transcript. You’ll find that at www.undercoverarchitect.com/354. In this episode, I talk with Louise and Zane about how they’re taking their existing home into consideration when renovating, and factoring the potential upgrades into their approach and overall budget. Louise and Zane also share how they’ve navigated receiving feedback and input from family and friends whilst they’re in this design phase. As is often the case, when you share floor plans with your loved ones, they can have an opinion about what they think is missing or not working in them.  These well-meaning opinions and feedback can be based on the personal experience of your friends or family, or because of their own professional backgrounds. However, balancing that input with your own project goals and budget can definitely be tricky. We also talk about how their timeline is working in this early design phase, and I give them some tips on some specific things they can be doing sooner rather than later to help squeeze up timelines and pricing certainty as they move closer to their final documentation. This early part of the design process can be super exciting as you see your dreams start to take shape on the page of your designer’s drawings. And yet, it can also feel like nothing is very ‘real’ yet, which can mean you stay too open to flexibility, and scope and budget creep.  It’s great to touch base with Louise and Zane at this point, and hear how they’re navigating this. And if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, you can find all of that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/355. Now, let’s dive in! SHOW NOTES: If you’re struggling with understanding the overall steps for your project, what you should be focussing on and when, or how to best invest your efforts, energy and money to get a great outcome in your future home, I’ve created something super helpful for you. Access my free online workshop “Your Project Plan” now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan This free workshop will really help you understand the best steps to take wherever you’re at in your project, and how you can avoid some serious and expensive mistakes.  Plus, I’ll share with you what to focus on and when, so you know you’re getting everything in order for a successful project and beautiful home. And you’ll get access to some great bonuses as well. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST NOW. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/355 Access my free “Your Project Plan” online workshop and awesome bonuses now >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/projectplan Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when renovating and building your family home inside my flagship online program >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/ Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.