Get It Right with Undercover Architect

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Interviews with American designers, Marina V Umali (Marina V Design Studio, NY + NJ) and Jake Krowkowski (JWK Design, SC) - Episode 3 (Season 10 - INDUSTRY INSIDERS) Jul 01, 2019

Show notes

What do you need to know about renovating and building your family home? And how can Feng Shui be used in the design of your home?

Hello, and welcome to Episode 3 of Season 10. In this episode, I have two American designers to introduce you to. Both are doing fantastic work in their own businesses, and have lots of helpful knowledge to share with you.

This is super exciting, because with both of my guests today, I had such a great time learning from them as I interviewed them - and so I know you’re going to benefit hugely from their expertise as well.

My first guest on this episode, is Marina V Umali, an Interior Designer and Certified Feng Shui Practitioner based in New York State. And my second guest is Jake Krokowski of JWK Design, and he is based in South Carolina, and specialises in new homes, renovations and landscape design.

SHOW NOTES:

So, let me first introduce you to Marina.

Marina V Umali is a NY State Certified Interior Designer and Certified Feng Shui Practitioner, and owner of Marina V Design Studio.

She has studied Interior Design, Architecture and Psychology, and worked as an Interior Designer for a number of prominent firms in New York City.

She cares deeply about helping people create lasting improvements in their lives. And she does that by creating lasting improvements in their environments.

Marina seeks to integrate interior design and Feng Shui closely in her work. Her favorite thing about Feng Shui is that it combines her experience and expertise in design and architecture with her innate desire to promote health and well-being. Seeing the smiles on her clients’ faces, hearing the emotion in their testimonials, and knowing that she helped make a difference in their lives is truly what makes all the difference in hers.

Her goal is to help you achieve a living space that’s striking, inviting, and functions practically for your lifestyle. Marina take a common-sense approach to Feng Shui – sorting through the myriad of misconceptions, alleviating your concerns and utilizing an age-old philosophical system to promote harmony and good energy in your home through thoughtful, compelling design.

She works locally with clients, and also provides her services online regardless of your location. Marina specialises in residential work and helps homeowners globally. She seeks to create custom solutions for her clients using beautiful and timeless design principles in combination with the power of intention. Marina wants you to have a home that feels as good as it looks.

I’ve been wanting to talk about Feng Shui on the podcast for AGES now, so it’s even more exciting to be bringing this chat with Marina to you.

Now, let’s meet our next guest.

Jake Krokowski is a designer based in South Carolina, USA. In 2015, he founded JWK Design, to help families realise their dream of a comfortable, modern home.

With 20 years industry and design experience, Jake has worked on design teams for large international resorts and prominent public projects, most notably the reconstruction of the World Trade Center in New York.

As well as working with clients on their custom new homes and renovations, he is also a registered Landscape Architect.

He can assist with

+ Landscape & Architectural design concepts & planning

+ Construction drawings & material selection

+ Bid review & contractor vetting

+ Construction oversight & quality control

Jake shares some great insight into what most challenges homeowners, and how he helps them to get clear on their project needs and desires. So, let’s dive into my chat with Jake.

Listen to the episode now. And be sure to get in touch with Marina and Jake 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 Marina and Jake. Those interviews are now featured inside my online course “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners.

Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ to learn more about “The Welcome Home Course”.

In the full interview, Marina has some fantastic help in ...

how you can use intentionality in your design for great results

where she has seen improper use of Feng Shui impact homeowners

why your health and wellbeing is such a big part of your home design

understanding ceilings as the 5th elevation of each room

recommendations for finding out more about Feng Shui for your project

In Jake’s full interview, he has some great tips for ...

how to design for Carolina’s climate and conditions

what type of roofing, materials and window systems are best for this type of climate

the planning conditions in the Carolinas to be aware of

local resources to help you with renovating and building in the Carolinas

In “The Welcome Home Course”, I’ve teamed up with award-winning American architect, Eric Reinholdt, to create a specific course for American homeowners.

If you’re planning your renovation or new build, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and confused about the best way forward. Many homeowners make the mistake of diving in, and fall for all sorts of terrible advice as a result. And the journey becomes far more stressful, expensive and time consuming as a result. And their finished home never lives up to the dreams they held so dear.

When you have the steps to follow … the map for your journey ahead, you can then move confidently towards that future home you’re dreaming of, and not waste any time or money.

When you know that step-by-step system has been created over decades of experience in hundreds and hundreds of family homes like yours, you can save so much stress in your project, and create a home that works and feels great.

And when you have the steps, as well as professional know-how, design knowledge, tools, resources, and guides, you can shortcut your journey, enjoy your experience, and avoid the heartache and drama so many experience.

If you’re keen to make your journey simpler, be confident that the home you’re dreaming of is achievable, and know the steps to get you there …’The Welcome Home Course’ is the way. Together with Eric, we’ve packaged up almost 45 years experience to show you the way to your future family home.

Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ to learn more and join us.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST:

Find more information and links to Marina V Umali, Marina V Design Studio, here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-feng-shui-marina-umali-marina-v-design-studio

Learn more about Jake Krokowski and get links to JWK Design, here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/podcast-important-to-know-building-renovating-jake-krokowski-jwk-design

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.

Interviews with Australian architects, Christopher Megowan (Megowan Architectural, VIC) + Suzie Hunt (Suzanne Hunt Architect, WA) - Episode 2 (Season 10 - Jun 24, 2019

Show notes

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.

How to be delighted when working with an architect | Interview with Anthony Laney, Laney LA - Episode 1 (Season 10 - INDUSTRY INSIDERS) Jun 17, 2019

Show notes

How do you find a great quality architect? One you have a good fit with, delivers beautiful work, and will take care of you as a client?

Meet Anthony Laney from Laney LA. Anthony is an architect and designer, a husband and a dad, and one of the owners of Laney LA.

In this interview, Anthony shares some fantastic industry insider insights into how Laney LA have built their practice, continue to create stunning homes, and how they seek to delight every client they work with.

SHOW NOTES:

Together with his wife, Krista, Anthony founded LANEY LA in 2014. Located in Los Angeles, their team focusses on fast-paced, high impact design solutions for home and businessowners.

Laney LA has a unique way of sharing their business and projects that shows a strong and powerful company culture, a true commitment to communicating their values and mission, the fun and enjoyment in their team, their clients and the homes they’re creating, and even though you’re following along, it’s shared in a way that makes you feel part of it.

When you find people who are so passionate about what they do, and are a force to be reckoned with in how they’re seeking to improve how they practice, whilst delivering top level services and stunning homes … well, you just want to help them spread the word.

Anthony is a powerful communicator, an innovative entrepreneur, and together with the team at Laney LA, is driving change in this industry and creating beautiful family homes and happy clients whilst they do it. And causing a bit of disruption whilst they do … smiling and looking like it’s a heck of a lot of fun!

I ASKED ANTHONY THESE QUESTIONS ...

When you started Laney LA with Krista, did you have intentions around the type of work you took on, goals you were seeking to hit, or clear client criteria for example?
How do you use Instagram for Laney LA and what are your goals there?
How do you suggest homeowners establish that ‘right fit’ between themselves and their designer?
How do you explain your process to your potential clients?
How does technology travel through the process, and what advantages do you think it gives you?
How does your process test the budget as the design develops?
Do you have suggestions for how homeowners and designers can bring surprise and delight to their home when on lower budgets?

Anthony was incredibly generous with his answers, and has fantastic advice that any homeowner will benefit from. And if you’re a designer or architect building your own business, this is the gold standard to aim for.

Listen to the episode now. And be sure to get in touch with Anthony to let him know you heard him on Undercover Architect, and to thank him for all he shares!!

This podcast is a snippet of the full interview which now is featured inside my online course “The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners.

Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ to learn more about “The Welcome Home Course”.

In the full interview, Anthony shares more information about designing for a Californian climate, dealing with difficult local authorities, as well as other tips for a great lifestyle in your home.

In “The Welcome Home Course”, I’ve teamed up with award-winning American architect, Eric Reinholdt, to create a specific course for American homeowners.

When you have the steps to follow … the map for your journey ahead, you can then move confidently towards that future home you’re dreaming of, and not waste any time or money.

Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/ to learn more and join us.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST:

Find Laney LA on the web >>> https://www.laney.la/

Follow them on Instagram >>> https://www.instagram.com/laneylainc/?hl=en

And Facebook is here >>> https://www.facebook.com/LaneyLAinc/

The Proven Process “Delighted Client” Journey is here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/LaneyLA-ProvenProcessDelightedClientMap.pdf

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.

What’s Season 10 all about? | Meet the industry insiders - Episode 0 (Season - INDUSTRY INSIDER INSIGHTS) Jun 10, 2019

Show notes

What do industry insiders think it’s important for you to know when building or renovating?

One of the reasons I created Undercover Architect, and why I continue to make so much knowledge and advice freely available, is because in my 20+ year career in architecture, I felt I was always finding people too late.

I'd be at the school gate, or at a BBQ, and someone would find out I was an architect, and then proceed to tell me the horror story of theirs, a family member's or a friend's project.

And there was always a consistent element ... they could have avoided the drama with the right advice at the right time. And anything I told them now was too late for them.

SHOW NOTES:

So much information and knowledge gets locked up inside the 1:1 relationship a homeowner has with their designer or their builder.

In that long journey of renovating or building, it can feel like 'pot luck' whether you end up with the right people, or getting the right advice at the right time.

Spoiler alert ... it's not pot luck.

Within every disaster story I hear, there's 2 common things:

a homeowner not knowing what to ask for, demand or expect
a red flag (or bunch of them) that got missed or ignored and not dealt with

There are hundreds of thousands of homeowners that visit Undercover Architect's website each year. Thousands listen to this podcast every week. Thousands receive my weekly email. Heck - there's over a million people each month that look at Undercover Architect's Pinterest account (1.3 million to be precise!!)

And yet, I still hear ...

"I wish we'd found you sooner"
"I wish I'd bought your course before we got to this point"
"I now tell all my friends and family to check out Undercover Architect so they don't have to experience what I did".

I’m doing my very best to spread the word that Undercover Architect is here, ready to help, with loads of knowledge and guidance available for homeowners. And I know many of you share Undercover Architect with your friends, family, neighbours and workmates … and I can’t thank you enough for continuing to spread the word with me.

I’m on a mission to make horror builds and renovations a thing of the past.

For you to all love and enjoy your projects, and create fantastic homes with design that works and helps you feel great.

Part of this is always making sure it’s not only my voice you hear. I want to bring you insights from other industry colleagues to expand all of our knowledge and experience. And I’m always seeking to help introduce like-minded professionals to the UA Community, because I know you’re keen to find good people to help you with your projects.

This season is going to be jam-packed with a range of different types of professionals, different areas of expertise and all my guests have one thing in common. They are super generous with their advice and knowledge.

Listen to the episode now to meet our industry insiders, and stay tuned for a great season ahead.

These podcast episodes will be edited versions of the full interviews which will now be featured inside my online courses …

“The Welcome Home Course” for American homeowners, and

“How to Get it Right in Your Reno or New Home” for Aussie homeowners.

And they’re featured in there in both video and audio form.

As Undercover Architect has grown as an online business, I’ve loved being able to reach and connect with homeowners from all corners of the globe. I’ve got almost 25 years industry experience in design, building and renovating in Australia.

And what I’ve found is that my step-by-step system for any renovation or new building project (the one I’ve been using in client projects and my own projects for all of that time) is that when I teach this system to you, it can help you as a homeowner save time, money and stress in your project.

When you have the steps to follow, the map for your journey ahead, you can then move confidently towards that future home you’re dreaming of, and not waste any time or money.

If you’re keen to make your journey simpler, be confident that the home you’re dreaming of is achievable, and know the steps to get you there, these online courses are the way.

In them, I’ve literally packaged up what is in my head and heart from almost 25 years experience to show you the way to your future family home.

Want to learn more about the courses?

If you’re an Aussie, head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ If you’re an American, head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/

And I’ve got a special bonus for the gorgeous UA Community podcast listeners. Just use the code “PODCAST” when you join, and you’ll immediately access a $50 saving.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST:

To learn more about the courses ...

If you’re an Aussie, head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/how-to-get-it-right/ If you’re an American, head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-welcome-home/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you chasing the after photo? | Styling and staging are not what makes a home - Episode 8 (Season 9 - KEEPING IT REAL) May 13, 2019

Show notes

Are you chasing the after photo? Styling and staging may be seducing you to make the wrong choices for your home design.

As you browse the internet, look at glossy magazines and spend hours on Pinterest, it’s easy to fall in love (and aspire to achieve) the images you see of renovation and building projects.

But it’s not all about the ‘after’ photo.

SHOW NOTES:

The way we view renovations and new homes when we look online, or on reality TV, is very carefully crafted.

Heavily curated homes, with the ‘right’ amount of furniture, artwork, cushions, rugs, and throws, make for beautiful photographs we begin to lust after and collect as inspiration for our own home.

It can be easy to think … “I just need to achieve that ‘look’ and my home will be perfect.

However, in my experience, styling and staging are not what make a home work. It’s not how a great home design is actually achieved. And it can seduce you into chasing the ‘after’ photo, and ending up with a home that’s disappointing and lacks soul.

Far too often I see homeowners start down the path of creating a home that is truly, uniquely theirs … and get lost in the on-trend, stylish and lust-worthy photos. They lose confidence in their own style, their own desires. And they create a cookie-cutter version of whatever is trending on Pinterest right now.

And the worst of it? Because the ‘look’ is usually high-end, they find knock-offs and low-cost substitutes to create it. Knowing they’re not durable. Knowing they’ll break down in a few years. With any luck, they’ll be out of fashion by then, and it won’t matter too much.

STOP.

You … and your home … deserve better than this.

Don’t go chasing that ‘after’ photo at the cost of living sustainably, flexibly and authentically.

Seek your way to keep it real, and create a home that works for you, and your family.

A home that is “YOU-WORTHY”.

This episode is brought to you by my online course “Manage Your Build”.

Are you planning to build your new home or renovation? Do you fear it will be a stress-filled ride of budget blowouts, compromises and dramas?

MANAGE YOUR BUILD provides you with industry-insider knowledge, checklists and strategies to save you time, money and your own sanity when building your new home or renovation.

A collaboration between Amelia Lee, Undercover Architect, and Duayne Pearce, of D Pearce Constructions, Manage Your Build shares know-how, expertise and experience from over 45 years in residential design, building and renovation.

This online course will prepare you for your construction phase so you can know you're actually getting what you're paying for, and avoid the heartache and drama of a horror build.

It gives you the clarity, confidence and information you need to start your project on the right foot - and navigate throughout each stage of construction.

Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to learn more and join us.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Forever Family Home building or renovating VS Flipping for Profit - Episode 7 (Season 9 - KEEPING IT REAL) May 06, 2019

Show notes

Renovating or building your forever family home is entirely different to flipping a home for profit - but not in all the ways you think.

Many homeowners seek advice and guidance from reality TV and online renovating or building experts who are flipping homes for profit. It can be a misleading way to seek help for your forever family home.

Flipping and forever are very different mindsets. When you’re creating your forever family home, the significance of what you’re doing can be overwhelming.

SHOW NOTES:

If flipping the home, there’s a certain freedom that comes from knowing you won’t be the one living with the consequences of your decisions. Decisions don’t seem so consequential - not for you anyway. This is entirely different to the exercise of building or renovating your forever family home.

I see homeowners unable to be detached or objective about the outcomes they’re choosing for their forever family home.

In a previous episode, I talked about the emotional baggage we bring to the process of creating our forever family home. Whether building or renovating, we will attach a huge amount to the realisation of our home dreams. There’s memories, status, future hopes and dreams, current achievement, identity … the list goes on. And those factors can mean we are VERY attached to the outcomes we’re creating in our projects.

As a result, every decision can feel BIG. Like it’s the thing that will make or break our hopes and dreams. From a bathroom tile, to the size of our living space, all choices can overwhelm and consume us with their significance.

This is entirely different to the exercise of flipping for profit. With profit as your objective, decisions have a compass, a goal to achieve. It can bring a clarity we lack in the emotional process of building or renovating a forever family home.

Even when online or reality TV building or renovating experts are doing their own homes, they approach it with a different mindset to the average homeowner. I see this play out in my own experience, as well as what I see happening in the industry.

As a homeowner, you mostly likely want this to be the first and last time you ever tackle a renovation or building project. Operating outside of your comfort zone, making such a big financial investment, and feeling under pressure … well, who would sign up to that again, hey?

Homeowners instead face every decision they make with the weight of regret. Will this be the wrong choice for our family? Will I come to dislike this in the future? Will my house look dated over time? Will this be a terrible frustration we get annoyed by? Will people think I’m foolish because I didn’t get this right?

For some reason, we believe that we should be good at this … that it’s something that should come naturally to us.

However, it’s not the case. And when we’re looking to those who are flipping for profit as our advisors, we can be seriously misled in our own journeys.

Give yourself permission for this to feel like a big deal.

This is your forever family home you are building or renovating. So decisions will feel big, and you’ll worry about regretting your choices. Listen to the podcast as I help you navigate this, and share where to get support from so you can find the process enjoyable and empowering.

This episode is brought to you by my online course “Manage Your Build”.

Are you planning to build your new home or renovation? Do you fear it will be a stress-filled ride of budget blowouts, compromises and dramas?

MANAGE YOUR BUILD provides you with industry-insider knowledge, checklists and strategies to save you time, money and your own sanity when building your new home or renovation.

This online course will prepare you for your construction phase so you can know you're actually getting what you're paying for, and avoid the heartache and drama of a horror build.

It gives you the clarity, confidence and information you need to start your project on the right foot - and navigate throughout each stage of construction.

Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to learn more and join us.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What Will Really Get Your Renovation or New Home Built? - Episode 6 (Season 9 - KEEPING IT REAL) Apr 29, 2019

Show notes

If you’re just wanting to get your renovation or new home built, the real life process may be disappointing for you. Why?

Reality TV and online renovating / building are ALL about the build … and this is a huge departure from the time, investment and team required to make your project happen.

The real life process involves a lot more than just the construction phase.

SHOW NOTES:

There are actually 4 phases to any project. Whether you’re building or renovating, wherever you’re located, and whatever your budget. These 4 phases are:

#1 Before you begin

#2 Getting your design right

#3 Before you build

#4 Getting your project built

Reality TV and online renovating and building are all about phase #4. Because this is the exciting part. It makes good content. It creates engaging, dramatic footage. And it’s fun to see a dream take shape in floors, rooms and buildings on a site.

So many homeowners focus their attention and effort on racing to the construction phase. It’s all about the build. Fast-tracking the design. Going directly to a builder with their own floor plan. A huge sense of urgency to make.it.happen.

Because that’s what we see on TV and online … dramatic countdowns to insane deadlines, and exhausted but elated renovators and home builders loving what they’ve created (insert high-fiving here).

In reality TV and online, it makes great content.

In real life … it’s a recipe for a stressful, expensive and not-so-great build.

For not getting the choices you want in your home. For blowing your budget. For blowing your timeline. And for missing opportunities to create the right home for you in a managed, strategic and on-budget way.

So what will really get your project built?

In this episode, I share key things you need to know about every phase of your renovation or building project. I also give tips to help you get it right so that construction is low-stress, runs smoothly, and you get what you actually want for your home.

This episode is brought to you by my online course “Manage Your Build”.

Are you planning to build your new home or renovation? Do you fear it will be a stress-filled ride of budget blowouts, compromises and dramas?

MANAGE YOUR BUILD provides you with industry-insider knowledge, checklists and strategies to save you time, money and your own sanity when building your new home or renovation.

This online course will prepare you for your construction phase so you can know you're actually getting what you're paying for, and avoid the heartache and drama of a horror build.

It gives you the clarity, confidence and information you need to start your project on the right foot - and navigate throughout each stage of construction.

Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to learn more and join us.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Real Life cost and time of renovating and building - Episode 5 (Season 9 - KEEPING IT REAL) Apr 22, 2019

Show notes

The most significant differences between real life renovating and building and reality TV and online versions is COST and TIME.

Why does it seem so much cheaper and faster to renovate or build in the television or online world?

SHOW NOTES:

I’ve been working with homeowners for almost 25 years now, and one thing has been constant. Their expectations of what it will cost, and how long it will take, are vastly different to real life renovating and building.

You’ll be told by well-meaning friends when you announce you’re planning to renovate or build … “You know what they say? It’ll cost you twice as much and take twice as long as you plan it to.”

However, in my experience … homeowners commence the process with a budget that’s 50% - 75% of where it needs to match their brief (their needs, wants, wishes and desires for their home). And they don’t understand how long the whole process will take, and that it can sometimes be 2 to 3 years from start to finish.

Why this big mismatch between expectations and reality?

Well, I believe this is the most significant difference between real life renovating and building, and what is presented on reality TV and online versions.

Listen to the episode now, as I help you be more aware of these differences. And how you can manage your expectations more realistically to save cost, time AND stress on your project.

This episode is brought to you by my online course “Manage Your Build”.

Are you planning to build your new home or renovation? Do you fear it will be a stress-filled ride of budget blowouts, compromises and dramas?

MANAGE YOUR BUILD provides you with industry-insider knowledge, checklists and strategies to save you time, money and your own sanity when building your new home or renovation.

This online course will prepare you for your construction phase so you can know you're actually getting what you're paying for, and avoid the heartache and drama of a horror build.

It gives you the clarity, confidence and information you need to start your project on the right foot - and navigate throughout each stage of construction.

Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to learn more and join us.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why naming your style can be dangerous for your project - Episode 4 (Season 9 - KEEPING IT REAL) Apr 15, 2019

Show notes

What style is my house? And my preferred taste?

Do you find yourself asking this question when renovating or building?

Everyone wants to know “What style is my house?” But naming your style can be dangerous and limiting.

SHOW NOTES:

One of the things I see that’s really prevalent in the world of reality TV and online building and renovating is this desire to name the style you’re seeking for your project (and future home).

It’s a common question others will ask you too. “What style are you doing? … Hamptons is SO popular right now!”

With names like Scandi, Plantation, Industrial, French Provincial, Coastal, there’s a huge range of descriptions for an apparent choice of style, look, finishes, colours and fabrics.

And you’ll see many online renovators and builders teach you to ‘pull together your vision’ … or create your vision board or scrapbook to show others the look you want for your home.

They recommend it as a great way to get clear on what you want, and also explain it to others.

Whilst I do believe that images are a brilliant way to explain your preferences to those on your team, I have this warning …

The names of these styles all have origins in specific times, cultures and locations. And they were created for specific reasons.

Sometimes it was related to climate, material availability, building technology and trade skills. Sometimes it was the next-stage development of an existing style. Sometimes it was a complete rejection of the status quo or traditional way of doing things. Sometimes it was socio-economic.

When you look back through architectural, design and art history, the style names we’re grabbing and applying to how we want our home to ‘look’, are usually based in meaningful history and motivations at the time.

When you seek to name the style of your future home, without truly understanding the historical origins of that style or its specific characteristics, this can be confusing for your project and design team. And you can seriously limit your project as others interpret what you want and don’t want.

And if you’re basing your choice of style on a series of images you’ve grabbed from a range of houses that actually aren’t that style at all … well, the confusion continues.

Styles aren’t simply names of detailing, fabric and colour choices.

I know homeowners feel it works for them to name their style, but what worries me is that it can (because I’ve seen it happen) create inauthentic designs that are a veneer over terrible planning and functionality.

It’s also worth understanding that a style name and a vision board is not a brief.

A brief is the main communication tool you need for your project - whoever you’re working with, and wherever you’re building or renovating. And some of the best briefs I’ve received don’t ever mention a style. They describe a feeling.

Appropriating cultures and styles from elsewhere that don’t have suitability for your local area can cause issues with the performance of your home, and also making it difficult to get planning approval from your local council.

More importantly, it means you can miss an incredible opportunity to express YOUR style.

A style that is specific to its time, location and climate … and suits you and your family authentically.

In this episode, I talk about what are the problems with naming your style, and how to instead think about your wishes for your home so they can actually be delivered by your team.

If you want a home that is functional, and feels complete, authentic and whole, then listen to the episode now.

This episode is brought to you by my online course “Manage Your Build”.

Are you planning to build your new home or renovation? Do you fear it will be a stress-filled ride of budget blowouts, compromises and dramas?

MANAGE YOUR BUILD provides you with industry-insider knowledge, checklists and strategies to save you time, money and your own sanity when building your new home or renovation.

This online course will prepare you for your construction phase so you can know you're actually getting what you're paying for, and avoid the heartache and drama of a horror build.

It gives you the clarity, confidence and information you need to start your project on the right foot - and navigate throughout each stage of construction.

Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to learn more and join us.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anyone can renovate or build their home (apparently) - Episode 3 (Season 9: KEEPING IT REAL) Apr 08, 2019

Show notes

SEASON 9 - KEEPING IT REAL

EPISODE 03 - Anyone can renovate or build their home (apparently)

They say anyone can build or renovate their home - can’t they? Then why does it go SO wrong for so many.

Well-meaning reality TV renovating and building mentors and online experts will tell you “Anyone can do this”.

“We didn’t know what we were doing either when we started. Look at us now! You don’t need to be a professional. We’re just mums / people like you. And we figured it out.”

And this can be really misleading for homeowners taking on the design, renovation or new build of their own family home.

SHOW NOTES:

Scratch below the surface of these reality TV and online experts and you’ll find a tribe of professionals and consultants who support and guide them on their projects. Who help ensure they meet council requirements, pass building inspections, that their design actually works, and that their project will be durable, legal and livable.

You’ll also find financial safety nets, and the ability to dedicate time, focus and energy into their projects that the average homeowner simply doesn’t have available.

There’s a big difference between industry experts and industry professionals. Liability, learning, support networks and access to knowledge. Expectations as well.

As a homeowner, you’ll be renovating or building your family home and wanting to get it right the first time.

You don’t have the luxury, room or time to ‘learn on the job’. Or another job, another project, someone else’s house, to get it right on.

When you don’t know what you don’t know, you can find you waste time and money on the gaps in your knowledge.

And when industry experts online and on TV don’t know what they don’t know (because they’ve learnt on their own projects, trial by error and done a handful only), big mistakes can get made as well.

Now - please understand - I’m very aware that being an industry professional does not make you immune to human error and unexpected challenges.

However, being an industry professional does mean you have a network and context to draw on in order to manage and mitigate risk - rather than the newbie approach of winging it.

Renovating and building isn’t easy. Anyone can do it, but only with the right support. It definitely can be simplified. And when you get it right - it is SO WORTH THE EFFORT.

Learn how to really protect yourself in your project, and support yourself so you get it right the first time.

Listen to the episode now.

This episode is brought to you by my online course “Manage Your Build”.

Are you planning to build your new home or renovation? Do you fear it will be a stress-filled ride of budget blowouts, compromises and dramas?

MANAGE YOUR BUILD provides you with industry-insider knowledge, checklists and strategies to save you time, money and your own sanity when building your new home or renovation.

This online course will prepare you for your construction phase so you can know you're actually getting what you're paying for, and avoid the heartache and drama of a horror build.

It gives you the clarity, confidence and information you need to start your project on the right foot - and navigate throughout each stage of construction.

Head to https://undercoverarchitect.com/manageyourbuild/ to learn more and join us.

FOR RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST, CLICK HERE.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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