How do you choose the right architect to work with? And how can you work well with them to keep your project on budget, and create a beautiful, long-term, family home?
Welcome to Episode 2 of Season 10. In this episode, I have two Australian architects who are bringing their industry insider insights to you … and from both sides of the country, with very different careers.
My first guest on this episode, is Christopher Megowan, of Megowan Architectural, a Melbourne-based firm. And my second guest is Suzie Hunt, of Suzanne Hunt Architect, a business based in Perth and working all through Western Australia.
SHOW NOTES:
Now, I’ve got a slightly longer episode for you this week, as I wanted to bring these interviews together, because I believe both these architects share a huge wealth of knowledge and experience, and what you’ll learn will really benefit you in your renovation or new build project.
These guests are Christopher Megowan, of Megowan Architectural, a Melbourne-based firm, and Suzie Hunt, of Suzanne Hunt Architect, a business based in Perth and working all through Western Australia.
So, firstly let me tell you about Chris.
For over a decade, Christopher Megowan, director of M – A, has passionately dedicated himself to the study, teaching and practice of Architecture, design and development. Christopher earned a Bachelor of Architecture (5 Year professional degree) from the University of Southern California in 2008 where he received numerous honours, scholarships, grants and awards. Acting as owner, designer, and developer, he completed his first built work prior to graduating University. Since then, he has been involved in projects ranging from bar & cafe fitouts to single family homes & 50 unit mixed use developments. Prior to starting M – A, Christopher cut his teeth working for award winning Architecture practices in Los Angeles, London, and Melbourne. Christopher has taught multiple design and construction studios at the University of Melbourne and Monash University at both undergraduate and graduate levels as well as served as a guest critic in Architecture for several different courses.
Megowan Architectural was established in 2009 and is a talented team of Architects that are united by a desire for excellence. M – A is less about a singular style, instead they are committed to the specifics of each project and to creating timeless spaces. Each project brings its own complexities and parameters which they carefully respond to by understanding their clients and how they want to interact with their spaces, and in turn how their spaces will interact with them.
And, I can’t wait to introduce my SECOND guest for this interview … Suzie Hunt.
Suzanne Hunt is an award-winning architect based in West Australia, and she founded her own practice, Suzanne Hunt Architect, in 2004.
Suzanne Hunt Architect is a boutique architectural and interior design practice specialising in residential, heritage, hospitality and mixed use projects in Perth and country Western Australia.
Known for her down-to-earth approach and wide-ranging professional and life experiences, architect Suzie Hunt has a warm and engaging manner that manifests in the buildings and spaces she designs. Her practice – founded in 2004 – specialises in architecture and interior design across a range of sectors, and provides strategic advice on design and heritage issues.
Suzie employs a small in-house team of architects and interior designers, and works with trusted external consultants and professional builders, all of whom are selected for their expertise and suitability for each project. She prides herself on maintaining a highly personalised service for her clients, from site selection, initial briefing and concept design through to construction, administration and project completion.
Her work is strongly influenced by Western Australia’s stunning landscapes, resulting in timeless buildings and spaces that are fit-for-purpose and beautifully detailed. Suzie brings a wealth of knowledge to the business of architecture; as well as running her own practice she has worked at state and local government levels, and currently sits on several executive boards.
As such, Suzanne Hunt Architects delivers projects that are financially viable, environmentally sustainable and aesthetically innovative.
One of Suzie’s most important roles as an architect is to help her clients enjoy their creative journey; she listens carefully so she can nurture and shape their dreams. “Great architecture enriches our lives physically, psychologically, spiritually and emotionally, and leaves a legacy for generations to come,” she says. “It’s important that we get it right, together.”
Listen to the episode now. And be sure to get in touch with Suzie and Chris to let them know you heard them on Undercover Architect, and to thank them for all they share!!
This podcast is an edited version of the full interviews with Chris and Suzie. Those interviews are now featured inside my online course “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home” for Australian homeowners.
Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ to learn more about “How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home”.
In the full interview, Chris also shares information on ...
- how he incorporates flexibility as an approach in his projects
- the design strategy that makes his own project (and home) a great example of what’s possible when desiging ‘in section’
- his learnings from his own project, and what he recommends you consider in your own
- what makes a family home functional and flexible over the long-term
In Suzie’s full interview, she has some great tips for ...
- how she assesses each project to be sure it’s tracking on budget,
- how homeowners have changed what they’re wanting in their homes over the past 14 years of her business,
- her thoughts on whether every project deserves an architect, and
- construction and planning in Western Australia (if you’re building or renovating in WA, this is awesome info!)
Wondering how to build or renovate your family home without the drama, budget blowouts or costly mistakes?
The “How To Get It Right in Your Reno or New Home E-Course” gives you access to all of the information and knowledge you need to create the home you want.
My years of experience with homeowners just like you, has shown me that making mis-steps in the early planning days ... and then continuing to make them ... can fundamentally impact your reno or building project. And send you in the wrong (and expensive) direction.
“How To Get It Right” is designed on the system I’ve followed during my own, and my clients', renovation and building projects. It is a framework for your journey from start to finish.
I arm you with the tools and knowledge you need to save time, money and stress.
And get it right the first time.
This detailed, step-by-step framework, will simplify your entire project journey
and give you the tools to ...
> Feel confident about the steps you need to take in your project.
> Know how to keep everything on budget and on time.
> Avoid the pitfalls and mistakes that lead to disaster stories.
> Be in control, keep your sanity and enjoy the journey!
"How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Build" will transform your renovation or building experience - and the finished home waiting for you at the end of your journey.
Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ to learn more and join us.
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST:
Learn more about Chris Megowan and get links to Megowan Architectural, here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-one-thing-renovating-and-building-christopher-megowan-architect
Find more information and links to Suzie Hunt, Suzanne Hunt Architect, here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-working-with-architect-suzanne-hunt-perth
Find out about “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/
And “How to Get it Right” for Aussie homeowners here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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