Get It Right with Undercover Architect

Hello! This is Episode 399, and in it, I’m continuing my conversation with HOME Method members Jan and Landon, who are building a new home and granny flat as a Passive House in Sydney’s north. As a reminder: Jan and Landon are building on a site that has been in Landon’s family for over 70 years.  Their new build project has been driven by clear goals around ageing in place, sustainability and lifestyle alignment, and they’ve worked collaboratively with their architect and builder throughout their project, involving their builder during pre-construction as well. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/399] This is Part 2 of the conversation you heard in Episode 398, so if you haven’t listened, you’ll find it at www.undercoverarchitect.com/398. And if you’re new to their story, I’d really encourage you to start at the beginning, because following their journey from the very first episode makes this one even more meaningful. We’ll pop all the links you need in the resources for this episode. In the last episode, we heard all about their construction progress, and how their builder’s prefab wall cassette system put the entire shell of their home up in just five days. In this episode, we kick off the conversation with a reflection on something that’s been really striking to witness, and that’s the sense of calm and confidence Jan and Landon have brought to this project. I ask them directly how they’ve arrived at that place, and what’s helped them trust their own decisions, even when those around them expected them to feel anxious. We talk about where they’re up to with their interior selections. This can be a stage that trips up a lot of homeowners, however Jan has taken a really thoughtful approach here, and it’s a wonderful example of knowing when to wait for more information before committing to a decision. We also cover the delightful surprises that construction has brought, the beautiful relationships that have formed with their architect and builder along the way, and I ask Jan and Landon what they are most proud of, and the advice they’d give to anyone who is right at the beginning of their own project journey. If you haven’t heard the previous instalments of Jan and Landon’s story, you can find them at www.undercoverarchitect.com/338, www.undercoverarchitect.com/339, www.undercoverarchitect.com/367 and www.undercoverarchitect.com/368. Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, you can find that by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/399. Now, let’s dive in! RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/399 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 >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/ways Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when designing, renovating or building your future home inside my signature online program, HOME Method >>> 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 387. At some point early in a project, many homeowners often reach the same conclusion: “If I can just find the right designer or the right builder, everything will fall into place.” This episode is about gently unpacking that belief, and understanding why choosing the right people matters far less than how and when you engage them. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/387] If you’ve been feeling unsure about who to talk to first, worried about making the wrong call, or hoping that the right professional will simply take the lead and guide you, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common pressure points I see at the start of projects. Before we begin, I acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which I live and work, the Widjabul Wia-bal people of the Bundjalung Nation. I pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and I honour their ongoing connection to land, culture and community. It’s Amelia Lee here, founder and architect behind Undercover Architect, an online education platform that teaches homeowners how to get it right when designing, building or renovating their home, simply and with confidence, wherever you’re located and whoever you’re working with. Undercover Architect is your secret ally. Not here to tell you who to hire, or to suggest that one type of professional holds all the answers. This is about helping you understand the process, ask better questions, and engage professionals in a way that keeps you informed, confident, and in control of your decisions. This episode is part of the ‘Start Here’ Mini-Sode Series, designed to challenge unhelpful assumptions and help you focus on what actually matters first, before momentum or fear shapes your project for you. Now you’ve seen how a project really unfolds through its four phases in Episode 385, and what to do before you begin designing anything in Episode 386… In this episode, we’re talking about what to have in place before you speak with builders, architects or designers, and why informed preparation plays a far bigger role in your outcomes than simply finding the “right” person ever will. So let’s dive into Part 3 of the Start Here series, Before You Talk to Builders, Architects or Designers. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, plus a full transcript, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/387 Choose Your Builder Mini-Course If choosing and engaging the right builder feels like your immediate challenge, my mini-course ‘Choose Your Builder’ will help you understand how to assess fit, ask the right questions, and avoid costly missteps when selecting and working with a builder. PROJECT 101 Self-Study Online Course If you’re still working out whether building or renovating is the right move, PROJECT 101 breaks down the five factors that shape every project. You’ll learn about cost, time, team, design and you, so you can see how a project really works and move forward with confidence rather than guesswork. HOME Method Online Program If you want guidance and support across all four phases of your project, HOME Method provides the structure, tools and personalised support to help you navigate complexity, manage risk and avoid costly mistakes. Inside HOME Method, you’ll find step-by-step guidance, practical resources, research and interview checklists for your team, and access to our UA Army. This is a community of architects, designers, builders and other consultants who align with Undercover Architect’s approach to doing projects well. HOME Method is designed for homeowners who want to feel informed, supported and confident at every stage, with architectural guidance and a like-minded community with you every step of the way. 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! And welcome to Episode 385. Most people think projects start with design or budgeting. They don’t. This episode introduces the four real phases of every project, and explains why confusion, rework, and cost blowouts usually come from skipping or rushing the early ones. So if you’re starting out and feeling overwhelmed or confused, you’re not behind. And in tuning into this episode, and the Mini-sode Series I’m kicking off, you’re in the right place to gain some helpful insights and know-how before you start your project. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/385] Welcome to this Mini-Sodes Series called ‘Start Here’. Each episode is designed to eliminate assumptions, bust common myths, and help you understand what actually matters first, before you dive headlong into your project driven by excitement alone. You’ll learn what to prioritise now, what can wait, and how to move forward without feeling overwhelmed. Most homeowners feel overwhelmed before diving into their new build or renovation planning. Nervous, but excited. Confused, but optimistic. Creating your future home is an opportunity to support your lifestyle, reflect your values, and create a place to live and enjoy for years to come. At the same time, a renovation or new build is often the biggest financial investment you’ll make outside of purchasing property. There can feel like a lot at stake, and the industry can appear opaque and complex. If you’re wondering where to start, that’s the most common question I receive at Undercover Architect, and it’s why I created this series. Before we begin, I acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which I live and work, the Widjabul Wia-bal people of the Bundjalung Nation. I pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and I honour their ongoing connection to land, culture and community. It’s Amelia Lee here, founder and architect behind Undercover Architect, an online education platform that teaches homeowners how to get it right when designing, building or renovating their home, simply and with confidence, wherever you’re located and whoever you’re working with. Undercover Architect is your secret ally. Not here to tell you what your home should look like, or to push an aesthetic, finish, or product. This is about helping you understand the process, ask better questions, avoid stressful and expensive mistakes, and make clear, informed decisions that are right for you and your project. So let’s dive into Part 1 of the Start Here Series, ‘How Every Project Really Unfolds’. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, plus a full transcript, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/385 The Get Started Guide Mini-Course You can jump into Undercover Architect’s mini-course, The Get Started Guide, which helps you begin organising your thinking about the first best steps for any project.  PROJECT 101 Self-Study Online Course If you’re still working out whether building or renovating is the right move for you, or you want to get your head around what’s involved before committing too far, PROJECT 101 is designed for that stage. It helps you understand the moving parts of a project and how cost, time, team, design, and you interact, so you can feel oriented and informed. HOME Method Online Program And if you want guidance and support right through all four phases of your project, with the steps, tools, resources and personalised help to navigate your project confidently, manage your risk and avoid costly mistakes, then Undercover Architect’s signature online program, HOME Method, is where you’ll find the community, coaching and education you need to support you every step of the way. 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 383, and in it, we’re getting an update from HOME Method members, Louise and Zane, about their renovation project. They’re currently under construction in their renovation and extension of a Californian Bungalow in Melbourne. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/383] If you haven’t heard the earlier parts of Louise and Zane’s journey, head back to Episodes 317 and 318, and then their most recent updates in Episodes 354 and 355.  You’ll hear how they approached choosing their team, what they wanted to create with their Californian Bungalow renovation and extension in Melbourne, and the early preparation they did to set themselves up well. You can find those at: www.undercoverarchitect.com/317 www.undercoverarchitect.com/318 www.undercoverarchitect.com/354 www.undercoverarchitect.com/355 In this conversation, Louise and Zane share where the project is at now, and the great news is that construction is moving along smoothly and they’re getting to enjoy that shift where the house starts to feel like a home.  They also talk candidly about the early challenges of bank finance and timing, and how, once that was resolved, they’ve been able to find a really solid rhythm with the build. We also dive into how they’ve used the PAC Process with their team, why their Design Brief (using the Brief Builder template from HOME Method) has been such an important anchor for decisions. They also discuss how having their architect also act as their interior designer helped bring forward key selections and reduce pressure during construction. Not all architects work this way, so it’s super interesting to hear how this helped Louise and Zane in their project. Plus, they share how and why they’ve staged parts of the project, including what they’ve done now to make stage two simpler when they’re ready. It’s a fantastic update that shows how the preparation, learning and work they did in the earlier parts of their project is now supporting a streamlined, confident and collaborative construction process overall. 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/383. Now, let’s dive in! RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/383 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 designing, renovating or building your future home inside my signature online program, HOME Method >>> 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 381, and I am joined once again by HOME Method member, Ben, to talk about what happens when your project finally moves from drawings into real walls, a real roof and regular site meetings on your building site. If you are in construction now, or heading towards it, this conversation will give you a really practical look at how to stay informed, keep your communication organised, and maintain a strong relationship with your builder along the way. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/381] You may remember Ben from Episodes 352 and 353, where he shared how their project began and why he and his partner, Mike, chose to pause and redesign in order to better align with their budget and goals.  We then caught up again in Episodes 371 and 372 to talk about choosing their builder and stepping into pre-construction after more than a year of due diligence. Make sure you check out those episodes if you haven’t heard them - they’re a great journey through Ben and Mike’s project. You’ll find them at undercover dot com, followed by the episode number - so undercoverarchitect.com/352 for example. In this latest episode, we check in at frame stage, with the roof now on and the house really taking shape. Ben shares how their weekly site meetings have created a steady rhythm for the project, as well as Ben’s record keeping and communication management overall.  Additionally, the builder has done a great job of facilitating open conversations with subcontractors during these site meetings, to assist in collaborative decision-making in the project. We also dive into one of the big technical decisions that’s come up during the build. Ben talks through the process of revisiting the original plan for a vapour permeable membrane and looking at an Anticon blanket alternative, and how it was resolved on site.  This episode is a great example of what it looks like to move through construction with structure, respect and agency, managing relationships and your own confidence along the way.  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/381. Now, let’s dive in! RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/381 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 designing, renovating or building your future home inside my signature online program, HOME Method >>> 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 379, and it’s Part 3 of my conversation with HOME Method members, Fionna and Ed, as they share their new build journey in Canberra. I decided to continue sharing our conversation so we could have this as a four-part series on the podcast, and then you get to hear the whole scope of their project through Pre-Design, Design, Pre-Build and Build.  I hope, as a result, it’s super helpful for you to follow along and hear where they invested their time, efforts and money, and how that’s influenced their project journey. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/379] If you haven’t listened to the previous parts of our conversation and want to hear the whole story from the start, head back to Episodes 377 and 378. You’ll find them at www.undercoverarchitect.com/377 and www.undercoverarchitect.com/378 In this episode, we move into the construction or Build phase of their project, and unpack what’s helped it run smoothly under a cost-plus contract. We discuss the power of fully scoping a project before construction begins, and how having detailed documentation, thorough selections, and early decision-making created real certainty in cost and confidence in delivery. Fionna and Ed also talk about the collaborative relationships they've built… with their architect staying involved through construction and assisting with key details like shop drawings, and with trades and subcontractors actively contributing ideas and expertise to improve outcomes on site. You’ll also hear how their builder’s appetite for recycling materials, and finding avenues to repurpose demolition waste, brought an additional layer to the sustainability to the project.  And we explore how their cost-plus contract includes thoughtful mechanisms to encourage time efficiency and accountability, which, combined with a transparent quoting process, has helped keep things on track. At its core, this is a story about what happens when you have the right team (professional, passionate, and committed) all working together with an informed and educated client, to bring a shared vision to life. 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/379. Now, let’s dive in! RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/379 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 designing, renovating or building your future home inside my signature online program, HOME Method >>> 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 377, and in it, I’m talking with HOME Method members Fionna and Ed. They’re based in Canberra, and are creating a beautiful, energy efficient and flexible home designed for their next chapter of life - a home that allows them to age in place, welcome family and friends, and accommodate their adult children when they come and go. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/377] Fionna and Ed’s home is being built on a unique block with a spectacular old oak tree that takes up almost a third of the site. Their architectural design works around this tree through a series of three connected pavilions that make the most of light, outlook and connection to the garden. In our conversation, you’ll hear how Fionna and Ed navigated purchasing this block, including conditional offers, tree protection laws, and some very determined problem-solving. Their story is such a great example of balancing tenacity with smart risk management, and shows how valuable, yet challenging, it can be to stay objective, even when you’ve fallen in love with a site. We also talk about how they chose their architect, the importance of finding someone who listens deeply, and the design thinking behind creating a functional, energy efficient home that can adapt for visitors, future care, and changing needs over time. Fionna and Ed share fantastic insights into designing for accessibility, the details they’ve included from the start, and how they’re approaching this project with their love of design and quality, as well as a commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. This episode is packed full of really useful insights, as Fionna and Ed have been really methodical and intentional in their approach, so if you have a tricky site for your project, a desire to create a functional home you can age in, an interest in energy efficient design, want a quality build outcome, or like Fionna, don’t want a butler’s pantry in your home, I know you’ll find it super helpful.  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/377. Now, let’s dive in! RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/377 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 designing, renovating or building your future home inside my signature online program, HOME Method >>> 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 375, and it’s the third instalment in our 4-part mini-series on how to make confident, clear decisions in your project, across the four key phases that every renovation or new build travels through: Pre-Design, Design, Pre-Build and Build. We’ve covered the Pre-Design Phase in Episode 373, and the Design Phase in Episode 374. In this episode, we’re moving into the Pre-Build Phase, which is often where things really start to ramp up. [For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/375] This is the stage where decisions begin to snowball, momentum builds, and that long-awaited construction start can feel just around the corner. It can be exciting. But for many, it also becomes stressful and chaotic, especially if this phase is rushed through or underestimated. And it’s no wonder. You’re often coordinating lots of moving parts, finalising hundreds of detailed decisions, working towards firm costs and approvals, and trying to hold onto your vision amidst it all. This is where confident, clear decision-making really counts. Because what you choose now will shape how your construction journey unfolds, and how your finished home turns out. In this episode, I’ll guide you through three specific ways to gain more clarity and confidence in the Pre-Build Phase. These are the strategies I’ve seen prevent costly mistakes, support smoother communication with your team, and create far more certainty before the build begins. Whether you’re feeling under pressure, unsure if you’re ready to sign a contract, or just want to lead your project more proactively, this episode will help you slow down, take stock, and make decisions that serve your future home and peace of mind. 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/375.  Now, let’s dive in! RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST: For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/375 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 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/ 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.