This week, we had a chat with two incredible builders, Jake and Brad, about building science, sustainable housing, and the challenges we all face in our field.

We start off by talking to Jake about his journey from an arts degree into a successful building career. He talked about how his education in art taught him to think outside the box, a skill invaluable in construction. He also shared a pivotal moment in 2013 when an architect asked him, "What's the goal of a building?" 

That question reshaped his entire approach to construction. For Jake, offering clients control over their living environments emerged as a core objective. Like us, he didn’t just want to meet the bare standards, he wanted to surpass them. Whether it's reducing air leakage or managing water intrusion better, we want homes that are stronger, efficient, and, frankly, top-notch in every aspect.

We then touched on Passive House standards. While they are worthwhile, not every high-quality building has to be certified. The value lies more in understanding building science and applying it practically. It’s about making homes better, not just ticking boxes.

Our work isn't just following codes – it's about creating homes that make sense for each client. And sometimes, that’s just explaining why a particular feature matters, helping clients see the bigger picture.

One tip we can offer is to have clear communication with clients about the reasons behind building choices. Explaining the why to clients can help them see the value in sustainable practices, much like Jake does.

We also delved into the builder-architect relationship. With the right communication and trust, this partnership can produce beautiful, efficient buildings. While working with architects who aren’t receptive to builder input can be tricky, it's often worth it to push through and build a foundation of mutual-respect. 

Jake has cultivated such relationships, particularly with his architect friend Steve. Their mutual respect allows for a progressive approach where each project is seen as an opportunity to improve and innovate.

Finally we touched on the limitations we face due to existing legislation and market pressures. Jake spoke about the barriers presented by production builders who push for lower costs rather than quality. It's a shared experience across borders, reminding us of the challenges and the role we play in advocating for better standards.

We hope you enjoy listening to our chat with Jake and Brad as much as we enjoyed having it. It was anjother reminder that industry change comes is a collaborative effort. By sharing knowledge and staying open to new ideas, we can all contribute to a brighter and more sustainable future for construction. 

So make sure you keep the conversation going, and we’ll see you next time! 

LINKS:

Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpod

Connect with Hamish:

Instagram:  @sanctumhomes

Website:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/

Connect with Matt: 

Instagram: @carlandconstructions

Website:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

Welcome back! This week we’re Joined by the incredible Talina Edward, an architect with a strong commitment to eco-friendly building solutions! 

We started off by getting Talina to break down biophilic design, a term many may have heard but not fully understood. Talina explained that it’s all about our innate connection to nature. She explained how incorporating natural elements into our buildings goes beyond aesthetics. It reconnects us with nature and improves both mental and physical health. Talina emphasised that this approach is vital as we face the global environmental crisis. It’s an ancient wisdom that feels ever more crucial today.

There’s a misconception with Passive houses that they make people shut themselves off from the outside, but this couldn’t be less true. Talina shares her experience working on projects like the Huff and Puff house, blending biophilic design with sustainable planning. Her designs allow residents to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while maintaining a high energy efficiency.

Another key part of our conversation was around improving the current housing system, especially for vulnerable populations. Talina is vocal about the need for healthier homes that are affordable and sustainable. She believes that if we integrate these standards from the start, it doesn't have to be more costly or complicated. This approach is not just beneficial but essential for the future.

The discussion takes a more personal turn as Talina opens up about her experiences with autism and ADHD. Diagnosed later in life, these conditions were initially perceived as challenges but have become integral to her identity and work. Her passion and attention to detail, Talina argues, are superpowers that have driven her success in architecture.

Talina's openness has not only helped her manage her workload more effectively but also inspired others in similar situations to explore their own diagnoses and strengths.

Talina is a passionate force for moving the building industry towards a better future and we hope this episode inspires you to reflect on how you can do the same!

Cheers,

-          Matt and Hamish

LINKS:

Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpod

Connect with Hamish:

Instagram:  @sanctumhomes

Website:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/

Connect with Matt: 

Instagram: @carlandconstructions

Website:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

We recently sat down with our very first international guest Josh Atkins from New Zealand. 

Of course one of the big things we wanted to know is how construction methods vary between New Zealand and Australia. We discuss the different challenges in climate, legislation and more, that builders face in each country.

Josh shared the infamous water damage issues they faced there, and how it forced them to adopt better building practices, including rethinking thermal envelopes and using advanced membranes.It's a chance for us in Australia to learn and anticipate potential challenges.

Josh highlighted some of the real challenges in our industry, like transitioning from traditional building approaches to ones rooted in building science and efficiency. We all agree that there's sadly a lot of negativity surrounding building, with concerns about costs and dodgy builders making headlines more than good news stories.

There’s also the ongoing battle in construction management—trying to run a smooth business while juggling the ups and downs. Last year was tough for many, with jobs dropping off due to economic conditions and the challenge of staying on top of costs and retaining clients interested in sustainable projects.

We've realised that to survive and thrive in this space, it’s crucial to consistently promote what we do—building high-performance homes. As builders, it's not just about building better but also convincing clients of the value these buildings offer.

Creating a brand that's associated with quality and sustainability is key. It helps clients understand what you're about even before they meet you. This way, when they come to you, they're already on board with the idea of building better.

Finally we touched on the delicate topic of relationships between architects and builders. Often, builders understand practical implementation better, which can lead to tension but things are getting better. More architects are becoming aware of design performance issues, and the insights that builders can offer them. 

Our chat with Josh was a good reminder that sustainable building is not just a trend but a necessity. 

By sharing knowledge, we're all working towards the same goal - creating homes that last and contribute positively to the environment.

LINKS:

Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpod

Connect with Hamish:

Instagram:  @sanctumhomes

Website:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/

Connect with Matt: 

Instagram: @carlandconstructions

Website:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

Prefabrication can get a bad wrap in the sustainable building world but when used in the right way, it can be a powerful tool for building sustainable and affordable homes. We recently sat down with prefabrication pioneers Chris Gilbert and Kaia McCarty Smith to discuss how it can support a better building future. 

Chris is the co-founder of Candour, a prefabrication company that aims to address the challenges faced by builders and architects. Unlike typical prefab companies, Candour doesn't focus on volumetric prefabs but rather on a panelised fabrication with a significant emphasis on software development. This means they aren’t just building physical structures; they're also building digital solutions that help bridge the gap between architects and fabricators.

Their unique software ties seamlessly into common architectural tools like Archicad, providing real-time pricing and fabrication limits. This ensures architects design structures within practical and budget-friendly bounds, ultimately reducing costs and improving efficiencies from the start.

On the other hand, Kaia shared his experience using prefabs as a builder and the force behind Wilderness Building Co. He explained that prefabrication offers a streamlined, efficient, and precise way to construct, with benefits in controlling quality and reducing on-site errors. These advantages are crucial, especially when considering issues like labour costs and the need for quicker building timelines.

As builders, we've always been aware of the resistance to change in our industry. Australians, by nature, are wary of deviating from traditional building norms. But is it time to embrace prefabrication fully? Chris believes that while prefab isn’t the silver bullet, it’s certainly part of the solution. 

Matt also brought up the rising costs of labour, and the difficulties that causes in the Australian market. Automating processes, as prefabrication allows, might be a great solution. However, it’s also about ensuring buildings remain affordable and comfortable for everyone, which continues to be a complex balancing act.

So, whether you’re an architect, builder, or part of the wider construction community, it’s time to consider prefabrication. It might not be the complete answer, but it could be a big step towards a sustainable future for construction. 

LINKS:

Connect with Chris Gilbert: www.candour.cc

Connect with Kaia McCarty Smith: www.wildernessbuilding.com

Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpod

Connect with Hamish:

Instagram:  @sanctumhomes

Website:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/

Connect with Matt: 

Instagram: @carlandconstructions

Website:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

That’s the world architect Jeremy McLeod is fighting for, and he joins us today to share the how and the why behind this dream. 

Jeremy is the co founder of both Breathe Architecture and Nightingale Housing, where he works to bring sustainability, community, and innovation to the forefront of the building industry. 

A big focus in our conversation was the Nightingale Model. Jeremy explained that Nightingale isn’t just a building; it's a housing model. At its core, it follows a triple-bottom-line approach, encompassing sustainability, community, and financial feasibility. This involves:

- Achieving sustainability through all-electric, 100% renewable energy usage.

- Fostering community by sharing resources like laundries and rooftop spaces.

- Ensuring financial sustainability by structuring projects around impact investments and selling units without profit margins.

Jeremy stated that by removing the profit motive and focusing on community needs and sustainability, Nightingale creates affordable, quality housing. This is evidenced by their growing waiting lists, demonstrating a strong demand for such innovative models.

We also discussed the critical role developers play in expanding sustainable housing. Jeremy believes that developers can and should evolve by adopting sustainable practices proven by models like Nightingale. He acknowledged that while profit is not the primary focus for Nightingale, larger developers can still profit through improved environmental standards.

Despite the obstacles, Jeremy remains optimistic about change. One of the main takeaways here is that transparency and certainty in planning are vital. Cities can learn from international examples where clear height and density regulations provide more predictable outcomes for developers and communities, which leads to better practices and more innovation! 

Jeremy is doing some incredible work, and we hope our conversation with him will encourage more people to go out and fight for a better future in building!

LINKS:

Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpod

Connect with Hamish:

Instagram:  @sanctumhomes

Website:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/

Connect with Matt: 

Instagram: @carlandconstructions

Website:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

You might remember today’s guest from all the way back in episode eight! Brad McEwan is a passionate builder, and a good friend who joins us now as a regular guest on the show.

We began our conversation by touching on a pervasive issue in the construction sector: project delays. Brad shares his experience of waiting eight months for a project start, illustrating the unpredictable nature of building work. Despite these challenges, Brad remains optimistic and committed to his projects

For Brad, it’s all about quality over quantity. He prefers working on one project at a time, pouring his heart and soul into every detail. Unlike the typical hustle and bustle most builders embrace, Brad keeps his overheads low, allowing him the freedom to focus more on the quality of his work and less on quantity.

Brad credits much of his business ability to effective networking and a versatile skill set. His resourceful nature allows him to fill gaps in projects with varied and exciting jobs, from refurbishing race car trailers to retrofitting custom interiors. Keeping overheads low eliminates stress, allowing him to focus on projects that truly inspire him.

Like they often do, our conversation drifted towards sustainable building practices. Brad shared insights from his experience at the Build Show Live, where the focus was on real-world testing and improving building processes. We discussed the importance of practical testing and adaptation, emphasising that while not all materials can be entirely sustainable, small changes can lead to big improvements over time.

This led to a discussion on the importance of passion and whether or not it can be taught. Brad says no, and it can’t be bought either. He believes passion comes from within and is cultivated through experiences that resonate personally. No matter where it comes from, we’re determined to sustain passion in the building industry.

So, if you’re struggling to feel the love for your work reflect on what drew you to it in the first place. Foster this enthusiasm by seeking projects that challenge and inspire you, even on a small scale.

Finally, Brad highlighted the power of networking and having a broad skill set. His resourceful nature allows him to fill gaps in projects with varied and exciting jobs, from refurbishing race car trailers to retrofitting custom interiors. Keeping overheads low eliminates stress, allowing him to focus on projects that truly inspire him.

Thank you for joining us and until next time, stay curious, stay passionate, and keep building the future!

LINKS:

Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpod

Connect with Hamish:

Instagram:  @sanctumhomes

Website:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/

Connect with Matt: 

Instagram: @carlandconstructions

Website:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

What is a Ventilated Cavity?

In simple terms, a ventilated cavity is an air space between the cladding of a building and its structure. This space allows the building to "breathe," circulating air and carrying moisture away. This is crucial to avoid issues like mould, rot, and other moisture-related problems. 

It’s a technical topic which is why we’re once again joined by Dr Cameron Munroe, who breaks down the nitty gritty of ventilated cavities.  

Cam explained that inheating-dependant climates like Melbourne or Canberra, building materials need to allow water vapour to escape. Unfortunately, traditional methods sometimes trap this vapour. A ventilated cavity helps in solving this by moving vapour out through a well-ventilated air space.

We've noticed and discussed how modern weatherboards differ from older ones. The primary reason? Changes in building techniques and materials. Old hardwoods have been replaced with softwoods, which absorb more moisture and have less tolerance. With improved insulation, drying potential decreases, making material choice vital for moisture management.

Different cladding types may require varied cavity depths for effective drainage and ventilation. It's essential to consider both ventilation (for air/moisture) and drainage (for liquid water). Thickness of battens used in cavities needs attention, as they play a role in air circulation and moisture drainage.

Cameron suggests that while small gaps can handle drainage, air circulation requires larger cavities. Achieving the right balance between these is key in construction.

So how do you choose the right cladding material for your climate? Well, buildings in colder regions require more consideration in cladding and batten selection to prevent moisture issues. We can model these factors to make informed decisions about batten thickness and design.

1. Cavity Depths: Consider a standardised cavity size, like a 70mm, which can work across various applications and climates.

2. Drainage vs Ventilation: Focus on creating effective drainage and ventilation solutions. Think about using metal mesh for venting and drainage to prevent clogging while allowing air to flow freely.

3. Durability of Materials: Choose materials designed to withstand climate changes and prevent long-term degradation.

It’s also important to remember that your roof is essentially a wall at an angle. So, similar principles of ventilation and drainage apply. Make sure your roofing system is designed to handle moisture effectively. Avoid using products like Anticon under roof sheets as they can degrade over time and block airflow.

So make sure you’re considering the climate and how it'll impact moisture and heat within your building's interior. Ensure you have the right ventilation and drainage strategy to manage moisture efficiently!

LINKS:

Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpod

Connect with Hamish:

Instagram:  @sanctumhomes

Website:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/

Connect with Matt: 

Instagram: @carlandconstructions

Website:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

Can you believe it’s almost the end of the year? It feels like January was just yesterday, but also like it was years ago. 

So much has happened in the world this year, both the good and the bad.This whirlwind was especially strong in the construction industry, so we want to recap 2024 in this episode as well as look forward to what 2025 will hold. 

So, the construction landscape has been tough on everyone, but we’re proud of how we’ve managed to keep moving forward. For those of you who’ve navigated this year alongside us, whether you’re still standing tall in your business or have made the hard decision to step back, remember you’ve made it through and that’s worthy of a pat on the back.

2024 has been another reminder of how important connection is. Whether it’s out group chat with fellow builders or the support from family and friends, our connections are what kept us going when things got tough. Sharing experiences, challenges, and success stories has fostered a community that’s both supportive and insightful. If there’s one piece of advice we’d pass on, it’s to never underestimate the power of a solid support system.

So, what does 2025 hold? We’re feeling optimistic. 

Regulatory changes and financial challenges are on the horizon, but we’re viewing these as opportunities for growth and innovation. Our industry is poised for a transformation, and we’re ready to pivot to meet these advancements head-on.

For us, thriving in business isn’t our only goal. In 2025 we’ll keep striving to champion mental health, community building, and innovation. For this podcast, we have exciting plans for more engaging content that platforms diverse stories in the industry. So stay tuned for that! 

Perhaps the biggest lesson from 2024 is that with every challenge comes the chance to emerge stronger. So take care of yourself over the holiday period and we can’t wait to be back with you next year! 

Cheers,  

Hamish & Matt

LINKS:

Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpod

Connect with Hamish:

Instagram:  @sanctumhomes

Website:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/

Connect with Matt: 

Instagram: @carlandconstructions

Website:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you all!

We hope you’re having a wonderful break from work, but if you’re not, you’re not alone.

Financial stress, family tensions, grief, and countless other factors can make it a difficult time for some. That’s why we’ve invited our friend and mental health expert Julie back on the podcast.

Isolation might not be the cause of people’s holiday blues, but it will always make it worse, so it’s important to keep an eye on the people in your life. Just reaching out to check on someone can make a world of difference. If you think someone’s having a rough time, then reach out to them - nothing beats a text or a call to make someone feel supported!

But, while you’re looking out for others, don’t forget to look after yourself too. Hydrate, get enough sleep, and make time for activities that fill your cup. Julie shared how engaging in nature, exercise, and social connections greatly benefits one's mental health. For us, hitting the mountain bike trails is a brilliant way to energise both body and mind.

As builders, we often feel the pressure to complete projects by Christmas. But let’s rethink this. It’s an arbitrary date, and rushing can lead to stress and mistakes. At our company, we take a firm stance by telling clients upfront: “You will not be in by Christmas.” It’s about managing expectations and emphasising the importance of a mental break for us all.

We then discussed alcohol which is something many people struggle with at this time of year. Excessive consumption can worsen anxiety and mood swings. We're not suggesting you forgo drinks altogether, just to recognise how it affects your overall well-being. Matt, for instance, found taking a break from alcohol a personal revelation, and Hamish shared how understanding his own reactions helped him enjoy the holidays better.

Finally, let’s not forget about the diversity within our industry. Not everyone celebrates Christmas, and that’s okay. Wishing colleagues a good holiday, rather than 'Merry Christmas', can be more inclusive. It's a small gesture to acknowledge and respect the different cultures we work with every day.

We hope you find these insights helpful as you step into this holiday period, and we’re wishing a restful and joyous time, however you choose to spend it!

Cheers, Matt and Hamish.

LINKS:

Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpod

Connect with Hamish:

Instagram:  @sanctumhomes

Website:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/

Connect with Matt: 

Instagram: @carlandconstructions

Website:  www.carlandconstructions.com/

One of our biggest goals for this podcast is to push the boundaries of conventional industry practices and challenge people (including us) to look outside their bubble. That’s why we were so excited to sit down with Jasmine and Logan from the Go Company this week. 

The Go Company started with a simple but brilliant idea: providing portable hygiene packs for women in trade. These packs ensure that no female tradesperson has to endure the embarrassment or inconvenience of lacking essential sanitary products during work hours.  

The packs, whether it's the elegant Luxury Box or the practical Go Bag, hold essentials like tampons, pads, and hand sanitisers, all packed discreetly into a small, first-aid sized kit. Affordably priced, these packs are built to be easily accessible while promoting a supportive working environment for women.

Menstruation doesn’t get discussed in male dominated fields like construction because of discomfort or ignorance, or both. This means women are often left without the facilities they need for their period and can be forced into very uncomfotable situations. Even the two of us were shocked by some of the personal stories Logan and Jazz share in this episode. 

Thankfully though, the Go Company is working hard to equip women with these basic necessities and to defeat the taboo that surrounds them. Beyond their products, Go Company also facilitates discussions between employers and their employees, to make things easier on all sides. 

While the Go Company initially targeted the construction industry, the vision extends much further. There’s potential and need for their products in schools, sports events, front-line worker environments, and even the army. It’s an ongoing mission to normalise and expand the availability of sanitary resources, and every workplace could benefit from joining this movement.

So if you’re a business owner or someone in a position to influence workplace norms, don’t let this conversation end here. Equip your facilities with Go Packs, discuss openly, and help create spaces where everyone is supported and respected.

LINKS:

Website: www.thegocompany.com.au

Instagram: @girlsonlycompany

Connect with us on Instagram:  @themindfulbuilderpod

Connect with Hamish:

Instagram:  @sanctumhomes

Website:   www.yoursanctum.com.au/

Connect with Matt: 

Instagram: @carlandconstructions

Website:  www.carlandconstructions.com/