Australia needs more homes - but builders are stuck in a maze of planning approvals, ResCode rules and red tape. 

In this episode, Melbourne builder Simon Clark (Sustainable Homes Melbourne) breaks down why housing targets are being missed, how planning vs. building approvals actually work, and where projects get trapped - especially with ResCode, Report & Consent, and the 2023 VC243 amendment.

Simon shares real site examples (inner-city Melbourne), the hidden risks of assuming a planning permit = ready to build, and the knock-on costs of delays (RFIs, arborist reports, flooding overlays, protection works, traffic management, asset protection). 

You’ll learn what to expect, how to mitigate delays, and when to engage a Town Planner so your renovation or new build doesn’t stall.

You’ll learn:

• Planning vs. building surveyor roles (and why both matter)
• ResCode basics, Report & Consent, and VC243’s impact on small lots
• Common delay triggers (heritage overlays, RFIs, flooding, arborists)
• Real costs of timeline blowouts—and how to minimise them
• Practical steps for homeowners, architects, and builders

Who it’s for: Homeowners planning a custom build/renovation, architects/designers, and builders navigating approvals in Melbourne and across Australia.

If you'd like to know more, please reach out to Sustainable Homes Melbourne or call us on 1800 683 697.

In this episode of House of Meaning, host Simon Clark breaks down what it really means to build a sustainable home in 2026 cutting through the myths and greenwashing to focus on four key pillars.

Too often, “sustainable” is seen as just adding solar panels or batteries. But true sustainability is deeper than that. Simon explores:

• Low embodied carbon - why the materials you choose matter more than ever
• Energy efficiency - designing homes that stay naturally comfortable all year round
• Resilient homes - preparing for extreme weather, floods, and long-term durability
• High quality design & construction - building a home that lasts 100 years, not 20

You’ll hear practical examples from projects across Melbourne, from recycled timbers and low-carbon concrete to the rise of HRV ventilation systems and smarter water storage.

Whether you’re building, renovating, or simply curious about the future of housing, this episode shows how a sustainable home isn’t just good for the planet - it’s healthier, more comfortable, and adds long-term value to your property.

If you'd like to know more, please reach out to Sustainable Homes Melbourne or call us on 1800 683 697.

Step inside one of Melbourne’s most ambitious heritage transformations - two 150 year old terrace homes in Fitzroy that may just be the most sustainable terrace homes in Australia.

In this episode, Simon Clark, builder and founder of Sustainable Homes Melbourne, walks you through the restoration and transformation of these derelict heritage-listed homes into carbon-negative, high-performance dwellings.

 Designed by Robert Nichol & Sons Architects, these twin terraces combine old-world character with cutting-edge sustainability - delivering 7+ NatHERS stars, full electrification, Tesla Powerwalls, and whole-of-home energy assessments that prove they offset more carbon than they emit.

Simon explains how his team blended traditional craftsmanship with modern building science - from low-carbon concrete and recycled messmate timbers to R4-rated walls, airtight membranes, UPVC double glazing, and heat-recovery ventilation systems that ensure long-term comfort and health.

Whether you’re a designer, builder, or homeowner passionate about heritage restoration and sustainable living, this case study will inspire you to rethink what’s possible in Australia’s inner-city housing.

Key topics:

• How two derelict 1874 terrace homes became carbon-negative
• The role of low-carbon concrete, recycled materials, and energy modelling
• Achieving 7+ NatHERS star ratings in heritage contexts
• What “whole-of-home” energy assessments reveal post-construction
• Lessons for anyone pursuing a sustainable renovation in Melbourne

If you'd like to know more, please reach out to Sustainable Homes Melbourne or call us on 1800 683 697.

In this episode of House of Meaning, host Simon Clark unpacks how block orientation shapes the comfort, energy efficiency, and liveability of your home - and the smart design strategies to make the most of any site.

From the ideal north-to-rear orientation through to the most challenging north-to-front or west-facing blocks, Simon explains how to place living areas, bedrooms, and services to maximize solar gain, natural ventilation, and shading.

You’ll also hear practical design solutions like using thermal mass, creating internal courtyards, planting deciduous trees, and clever zoning to overcome tricky sites.

Tune in to learn:

• Why block orientation is one of the most overlooked yet critical factors when buying or designing a home
• Strategies for each orientation: north, south, east, and west-facing blocks
• How shading, landscaping, and courtyards can transform even the toughest sites
• Real design examples from inner-city Melbourne homes and heritage terraces

Perfect for homeowners, renovators, and designers who want to unlock the hidden potential of their site and create a more sustainable, comfortable, and beautiful home with clever design.

If you'd like to know more, please reach out to Sustainable Homes Melbourne or call us on 1800 683 697.

In this first episode of House of Meaning, host Simon Clark explores the vital role of passive solar design in building and renovating sustainable homes.

You’ll discover the five key principles of passive solar design;

1. Orientation
2. Windows & Shading
3. Thermal mass
4. Ventilation
5. Zoning the home

These five principles will help you create a beautiful, comfortable sustainable home that is healthy, has less reliance on mechanical heating and cooling, cuts energy bills, and has naturally comfortable spaces all year round.

Whether you’re planning a new build or rethinking a heritage renovation, this episode breaks down the core principles of passive solar design and why it should be the starting point for all home designs.

Tune in to learn:

• What passive solar design really means (beyond just “north-facing windows”)
• The biggest mistakes homeowners and designers make when overlooking it
• How this simple yet powerful approach impacts comfort, sustainability, and long-term property value

Perfect for homeowners, architects, and builders who want to create smarter, healthier, and more sustainable homes.

If you'd like to know more, please reach out to Sustainable Homes Melbourne or call us on 1800 683 697.

Welcome to the 'House of Meaning' by Sustainable Homes Melbourne

If you're planning to build or renovate and want a home that’s sustainable, thoughtful, and built with care - you’re in the right place.

The HOM podcast is for homeowners - people like you - who are preparing for one of the biggest investments of your life.

Every fortnight, we’ll share:

• Practical advice to help you make informed decisions.
• Design insights to ensure your home is tailored to your lifestyle, comfort, and long-term needs.
• Real stories from the projects and clients we’ve worked with across Melbourne.

The goal is simple: to help you plan and build your dream sustainable home with clarity and confidence - and to avoid the common mistakes that can cost you time, money, and peace of mind.

This podcast is all about - giving you the tools, stories, and inspiration to make your home not just sustainable, but meaningful.

Enjoy!

If you'd like to know more, please reach out to Sustainable Homes Melbourne or call us on 1800 683 697.