Mindful Builder

The world is changing, and the way we build our homes should change too. People are increasingly passionate about their health, comfort and the environment – which is where Passive Houses come in.

In this episode we sit down with Sven Maxa, a building designer and Passive House advocate, to discuss how we can build for a better future. Sven shared so much good stuff in our conversation that we had to break it in half, so make sure you tune in next week for part 2. But for now, enjoy!

 Many people think Passive Houses are just about saving energy, but Sven explains that this isn't the whole story. Even more important is how these homes make us feel. They improve air quality, reduce illnesses, and create a more comfortable environment. Sven shares the real health benefits his clients have seen, like one person who they got fewer colds in winter after moving into their new home.

To achieve this goal we need careful planning, which sometimes means going against what’s popular. For example, huge rooms aren't always better. The focus should be on using space wisely and making every part of a home functional and enjoyable.

And remember, “being green” isn’t enough on its own – we need to be using good building science. Homes should work as a whole system, and saving energy is just one part of that. When updating older homes, making informed choices is crucial to avoid problems. We need to communicate in simple terms, focusing on the obvious benefits like better air quality and comfort.

Sven also talks honestly about the challenges of using more environmentally friendly materials like a special type of low impact concrete he’s recently worked with. It’s an advanced product, devoid of conventional cement, that significantly reduces carbon emissions. These kinds of innovations help reduce environmental effects but can cost a lot more more. In the end, Sven believes finding the balance between strength and being eco-friendly is key.

Hearing from passionate professionals like Sven gives us so much hope for the future and we hope it does for you too. Remember to tune in next week for the second half of this conversation.

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/

Have you ever wondered why you feel perpetually drained, despite clocking out on time?

The cause (and solution) might be the boundaries we’re too scared to set.

Psychologist Julie Mounter joins us for today’s episode to talk about the different types of boundaries and how mastering them can lead to a more fulfilling life.

One of the most straightforward forms of boundary is the physical kind. It’s about respecting personal space, privacy, and physical needs. Hamish shares how important it is for him to maintain his weekend boundaries. On Sundays, his phone goes on 'Do Not Disturb' mode and he doesn’t respond to anyone. It’s a sacred time for rest and recovery, without disruptions.

Emotional boundaries, on the other hand, are about safeguarding your emotional well-being. It’s about not taking on the emotional burdens of others and protecting your peace. We all have the tendency to want to help others, but it’s essential to know your limits and not let external emotions overwhelm your own.

Time is perhaps the most valuable commodity we have, yet it’s easy to let it slip through our fingers. Establishing firm time boundaries between work responsibilities and personal life is the only way to ensure you have energy for what matters most.

Material boundaries revolve around how we handle our possessions and financial resources. It's about deciding what's okay to share and what's not. Julie shared a great example during our chat – she doesn't lend her ski gear to anyone. It’s a simple but firm material boundary that protects her belongings and ensures peace of mind.

Finally, mental boundaries are about maintaining your own beliefs and ideas. It’s about standing firm against being overwhelmed or swayed by the opinions of others. We’ve all faced moments where our ideas are challenged, which is why having clear mental boundaries is vital for self-identity and confidence.

Setting boundaries is not just about avoiding burnout or reducing stress. It’s about forging a life that aligns with your values and priorities. When you establish clear boundaries, you create a life that lets you flourish without sacrificing personal time, health, or family commitments!

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/

It’s been a big week in the building industry and sometimes we’re not quite sure how to feel, which is why we want to break down some of the big changes we’ve noticed and what they could mean down the line!

To kick things off, there's been widespread concern about the Coalition's proposal to freeze updates to the National Construction Code (NCC) for the next decade. This plan, with apparent backing from industry heavyweights like the Housing Industry Association (HIA) and Master Builders, triggered a rollercoaster of feelings. Honestly, on the day we heard the news, we were disappointed and angry, but now we’ve had more time to calm down and contemplate the future. 

An important part of the discussion was breaking down the role that industry associations like Master Builders and HIA play, and the influence they wield. While these organisations undoubtedly contribute positively in many ways — offering legal support, help with contracts, and education programs — there's an unsettling feeling about their stance on this matter. At their core, these organisations represent builders and tradespeople, not consumers, but it doesn’t always feel like they are. 

Considering the current indusrty landscape, we strongly advocate for licensing all tradespeople. It not only holds individuals responsible but enhances the overall quality of work within the industry.

More than anything though, we believe in the strength of collaboration. Organisations like the Sustainable Builders Alliance, Master Builders, and even consumer education groups have the potential to foster significant positive change when they come together.

While we haven't tied up every loose end in this conversation, what's important is that the dialogue continues. Together we can build the future we want to see, so reach out and keep this conversation going!

As builders it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of building a house our clients will cherish, that the space around it becomes an afterthought.

Today we’re joined by Nadia Cole from Platylobium Landscape Design to talk about landscaping and the difference it can make when building an enjoyable, and sustainable, home.

So how can landscaping be sustainable, isn’t planting any plant sustainable? 

Well, it’s not that simple. Many common features of our yards, like areas covered with concrete, raise the temperatures of our homes and contribute to environmental degradation. Instead, she strives to design green spaces that cool, provide habitats, and respect local environments. The use of native, and more specifically, indigenous plants—those naturally adapted to the area—decreases the demand for resources and enhances biodiversity. 

This made us think about the urban heat island effect, and how trees can help mitigate extreme temperatures. By planting more trees and native flora, we can reduce temperatures significantly, creating cooler and more enjoyable environments that encourage outdoor living. Nadia shared insights from projects that introduce canopy species back into dense urban areas, demonstrating how intentional landscape design can have a profound impact on our urban ecosystems.

So when should landscapers get involved in the construction process? 

Nadia says the sooner the better! If you’re considering landscape design from the early stages you’ll get a more harmonious blending of indoor and outdoor spaces!

LINKS:

Connect with Nadia:  https://www.platylobium.com.au/

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/

Is your home still running on outdated gas energy? 

Maybe the effort of switching to electric doesn’t seem worthwhile, but it definitely is. Going electric isn't just about cutting carbon emissions – it improves the comfort of your home and saves you money! What’s not to love? 

This week, we took the opportunity to chat with Ben and Marcella from Goodbye Gas, getting into the gritty details of why and how you should make the switch.

Gas Versus Electricity: Breaking It Down

Many people cling to gas, especially for cooking, because they feel more 'in control' with a visible flame. However, as Ben explained, modern induction cooktops offer precision control, even enabling you to temper chocolate to perfection! Moreover, electric appliances are generally easier to clean and are packed with safety features that appeal to families.

From a heating and cooling perspective, heat pumps stand out as prime examples of how electric can outperform. A simple explanation: they use a technology akin to your refrigerator but in reverse, extracting heat from the air to warm your home efficiently. Compare this to the outdated gas systems, and it's clear electricity holds the upper hand.

Addressing the Concerns

A question we're often asked is about the potential health implications of induction cooktops due to their electromagnetic fields (EMF). However, as our exploration shows, EMF emissions from these appliances fall significantly below international safety guidelines—lower than what you’d experience from a common hairdryer!

Another hurdle is the cost associated with making the switch. Although we found that the upfront investment might deter some households, incentives such as government rebates can mitigate these initial costs, making the transition more accessible over time. Plus, as gas prices rise, the break-even point for your investment draws ever closer.

The Process with Goodbye Gas

If you're motivated to make the transition, Goodbye Gas offers a thrilling peek into what it means to electrify your home. Booking a consultation—either virtually or in-person—can set you on the right track. Marcella highlighted that they tailor the electrification plan to your specific needs, considering existing gas appliances and space constraints. The goal is to demystify the process, ensuring it's as seamless as possible for homeowners ready to take the plunge.

So, why stick with outdated, inefficient, and ultimately more expensive gas systems? The time to act is now. Together, we can make a difference—both for our wallets and the planet. 

LINKS:

Goodbye Gas: https://www.goodbyegas.com.au/

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/

It's a common fate — a newly built home settling into its first winter, and already the heating bills climb sky-high. Why is it that modern construction sometimes misses the mark?

Today we’re joined again by our good friend and building-science expert Cameron Munroe to break down this issue.

 So, picture this: a wall that's not just a barrier but a well-crafted system designed to maximise efficiency and durability. Cameron introduced us to the concept of the "perfect wall," a term coined by Joe Steinberg. Now, don't get too literal here—it's not about constructing flawless structures without a single blemish. Instead, the idea revolves separating the control layers of a building—rain, air, vapour, and thermal. In essence, it's about keeping what should be outside, outside, and ensuring the inside remains a comfortable, energy-efficient space.

You see, when building walls, it's critical to layer them in a way that maximises efficiency and durability. Start with a nice structural frame, something sturdy like timber or steel. Next, add an air, vapour, and water control layer. This is crucial because it prevents rain and moisture from compromising the structure—a point we've historically overlooked with traditional sarking methods that allowed tiny holes for 'breathing,' essentially defeating their purpose.

Beyond this, insulation plays a pivotal role. By placing it on the outside of the control layers, you keep the structure warm and dry. This layering ensures that your building can handle moisture diligently, reducing the risk of mould and rot, which was a common issue with older building practices that lacked proper insulation.

If you're wondering why this matters, think about the last time you were cozy at home while it was pouring outside. The comfort didn't just happen by accident; it was thanks to these scientific principles working together to keep your space inviting and energy-efficient.

The conversation doesn't stop there. We've noticed that by integrating these concepts, building projects become not only more resilient but also more cost-effective in the long run. Yes, there might be an initial higher investment, but the reduction in energy bills and maintenance costs significantly offsets this.

Moreover, one of the myths we want to debunk is the idea that these methods are only for high-end custom homes. Incorporating intelligent building principles is accessible and increasingly necessary across all builds as we strive to meet new standards of efficiency and sustainability.

 We also touched on the importance of ventilation and air quality, two aspects often misunderstood concerning airtight construction. Contrary to popular belief, tighter buildings don't mean poorer air quality. With systems like Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV), you can ensure a constant supply of fresh, filtered air—eliminating unwanted pollutants while maintaining energy efficiency.

Ultimately, understanding these building science fundamentals and striving for improvement poses a thrilling challenge. We're not here to draw lines in the sand or create an us vs them battle, instead we want to light the way forward, ensuring that everyone involved has access to the knowledge they need to build better.

So, reach out, get involved, and let’s keep this conversation going.

Cheers,

Matt & 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/

Think your old home can’t achieve today’s high-performance standards? Think again.

We're here to challenge conventions by retrofitting a typical Burbank home from the '90s into a certified Passive House. No extra frills, no new builds—just clever planning and innovative techniques.

Join us as we take you on a journey that proves you don’t need to start from scratch to achieve groundbreaking energy efficiency!

It's been a while since it was just the two of us on the podcast. We’ve had some pretty amazing guests lately, but today we’re diving back into our duo dynamic. And what better way to do that than by sharing our projects with you?

It’s easy to show off the polished, Instagram-ready end product but often things behind the scenes are far from perfect. We believe in transparency, which is why we’re starting a four-part series focusing on Matt’s work retrofitting an old volume-built house into a certified passive house.

If you’ve been listening for a while you probably know what a Passive House is, but in case you don’t, they’re buildings designed to require minimal energy for their heating and cooling. Typically, this means excellent insulation, air-tight construction, and windows that prevent heat loss.

Retrofitting a building to meet Passive House standards comes with unique challenges that you don’t face building from scratch. The building is already there so you can’t change the orientation of the house or the positions of windows easily. Despite the extra challenges, projects like this are incredibly achievable. We know that a lot our listeners probably own older homes, and we hope this series can inspire you to make them more energy-efficient and comfortable.

From the very beginning, this project was fraught with unknowns. We needed to replace the house’s existing, ageing systems, including the electrical wiring and plumbing. Finding where all the mains were connected became a hunt of its own.

We had to make significant decisions about how to insulate the house from the inside without touching the brick cladding. We knew the original windows wouldn’t cut it for a Passive House, so we decided to replace them with high-performance triple-glazed windows.

Through it all, our guiding principle was clear: water kills buildings. We needed to ensure the house was water and air-tight, even more so than focusing solely on Passive House standards. Collaborating with our project partners and trades was incredibly helpful here. For instance, Cameron from Hit V Hype helped us model the project thoroughly, to ensure we didn't overlook anything.

Even though the project isn’t fully completed, early indications of its success are evident. The house, once unoccupied and deteriorating, now boasts consistent indoor temperatures and markedly improved air quality. Tradespeople working on-site have noted the enhanced comfort levels, even before the final touches are in place.

The projected energy savings are also significant. We’ve managed to reduce the expected annual heating costs from about $8,802 to roughly $1,600 – a testament to the enormous efficiency gains achieved through this retrofit.

Stay tuned for the next parts, where we dive into the nitty-gritty of the construction phase!

Cheers,

Matt & 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/

Did you know Australia boasts the larges average home size anywhere in the world? 

The market is full of oversized, inefficient homes that aren’t sustainable or necessary and we’re sick of it. 

That’s why we sat down with Imogen from IP Architecture, who’s challenging the ‘bigger is better’ mindset and setting new standards for sustainable living.

Imogen’s journey in architecture began with the mud brick house her parents built. "My parents built their own house when I was a baby, and it was a mud brick house with recycled materials. That was really influential on me," she recalled. This early exposure to sustainable building materials and passive solar design principles stayed with her as she pursued her architecture degree and later her career.

Today, Imogen's designs continue to reflect her commitment to sustainability. She strongly believes in the principles of passive solar design, which involves working with the natural environment to heat and cool homes efficiently. "For me, the principles of passive solar design are just basic architecture," she explained. "It shouldn't be something that’s celebrated; it should be the norm."

I’m sure you know how passionate we are about the Passive House movement, and Imogen shares this enthusiasm. Passive houses take passive solar design a step further, using advanced building physics to create airtight homes that maintain a comfortable indoor climate year-round. Though it might mean more initial embodied carbon due to extra insulation and mechanical systems, the long-term operational energy savings are undeniable. 

Our conversation then turned to a pressing issue in the Australian building industry—our penchant for oversized homes. It seems like every year they get bigger and bigger, with another guest room, or media room, or kids room. Imogen has successfully made it her mission to show clients that a well-designed, compact home can meet all their needs without the excess. "One of my favourite things about being an architect is making people's briefs work in the most compact building envelope," she explained.

 She’s developed a process that involves deeply understanding her clients’ lifestyles and future needs. Asking detailed questions helps her clients re-evaluate their actual needs versus their initial desires, leading to more efficient, sustainable design solutions.

However, it’s not only client expectations that complicate matters. Real estate market norms and outdated policies are significant barriers. Imogen shared how challenging it can be to convince clients to build for themselves and not for resale value. "People need to realise that a well-designed, comfortable, and sustainable house will be invaluable to someone else too," she stated.

Changing the building industry to favour sustainability requires both bottom-up and top-down efforts. As designers and builders, we can lead by example, showcasing projects that highlight the beauty and practicality of sustainable architecture. Meanwhile, we must advocate for policy reform that allows for modern, eco-friendly innovations even within heritage contexts.

Imogen is proof that real change is possible, it just requires dedication, creativity, and a willingness to ask the hard questions. So, take this as a challenge, get out there, and push for more sustainable, innovative, and thoughtful solutions in our industry.

Together, we can make sustainable and efficient design the standard, not the exception.

LINKS:

Connect with our Guest: 

Website: https://imogenpullar.com/

Instagram: @ip_architecture

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/

Have you ever felt like you're burning the candle at both ends and you aren’t sure how long you can keep it up? Trust us, you're not alone.

It’s easy to push ourselves too far with work and neglect our mental health. It might not seem like a huge deal in the moment but it’s a quick path to burnout. 

We recently sat down with, we sat down with Kyle Zanetto, a Tasmanian building business owner, who has experienced it all—burnout, breakdowns, and the balance it takes to keep it all together. This story is raw, real, and packed with insights you'll want to carry with you.

Kyle kicked off by sharing a bit about his professional journey. At just 31, he's already led Zanetto Builders through seven successful years, becoming a well-respected name in Tasmania’s custom home space. But as glamorous as that sounds, the path to getting there was paved with more than just hard work and skill—it was strewn with personal sacrifices and intense mental health struggles.

His lowest point came in 2020, when the juggle of a growing business and competitive bodybuilding pushed him to severe burnout.  "I was building my house, doing a bodybuilding competition, and running the business. I was on steroids, getting five hours of sleep a night, and my personal life was falling apart," Kyle shared. "It all came to a head when I made the huge mistake of cheating on my partner, and that’s when my life spiraled out of control." Things got so bad Kyle contemplated ending his life, but thankfully two close friends reached out to him with support and helped turn things around.

It wasn’t an overnight change though. After his breakdown, Kyle spent weeks rebuilding his life, seeking therapy, and learning to prioritise his mental health. This journey led him to develop a new vision for his business. Now, he focuses on creating a company so robust that it can accommodate the dreams and aspirations of all his employees, making sure they have a stable and supportive environment.

Practical Takeaways

1. Routine and Structure: Kyle emphasised the importance of a structured routine. From blocking out time for specific tasks to maintaining a work-life balance, these steps were crucial in helping him manage his responsibilities more effectively.

2. Know Your Worth: One of Kyle's strategies was to evaluate whether he was spending his time on tasks that matched his value to the business. If a task could be handled by someone else for a lower cost, he delegated it, allowing him to focus on high-value activities.

3. Support Systems Matter: Kyle’s story is a testament to the power of reaching out and surrounding yourself with people who care. His friends didn't just offer emotional support; they helped him navigate through some of the darkest periods of his life.

 We hope Kyle’s story resonates with you as much as it did with us. Burnout is a serious issue, and it’s crucial to recognise the signs early and take steps to address it. Remember, there are always people who care about you, even when you think there aren’t.

Let’s keep this conversation going. Share your experiences, reach out to someone who might be struggling, and never underestimate the power of a supportive community. Here's to rebuilding stronger, together

LINKS:

Connect with our Guest: 

Website: https://www.zanettobuilders.com.au/

Instagram: @ZanettoBuilders

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’ve got a bonus episode for you today because it’s R U OK? Day.

If you aren’t familiar with R U OK? Day, it’s a day dedicated to checking in on your mates and yourself.

The construction industry is incredibly demanding and it’s easy for mental health to take a back seat, but days like this remind us how important it is to be there for each other – not just once a year but as an everyday priority.  We’re joined by our good friend, the incredibly knowledgeable Julie to break down how to have these conversations.

We know it can be hard to ask someone if they’re okay, especially if you fear making things worse. Julie reassures us that the worst thing we can do is to avoid asking at all. Simple, genuine questions like, "You don’t seem yourself lately, is everything okay?" can open the door for someone to share their struggles.

One of the barriers in our industry is the cultural expectation to be tough and self-reliant. Many of us shrug off issues by saying, "I’m fine," even when we’re not. If you get this response, persistence is key. Follow-up is crucial. Let them know you're genuinely there for them, and don't hesitate to check in again later. Over time, this persistence can prove to someone that our concern is genuine, making them more likely to open up.

What to Do When Things Get Serious

If someone opens up to you about serious issues, such as suicidal thoughts, it's essential to stay calm and listen. While it’s a heavy topic, Julie reminds us that asking about suicidal thoughts does not increase the risk of someone taking their own life. Instead, it can provide them relief by showing they’re not alone. Express your concern and support, and guide them towards professional help, like their GP or a counsellor.  

To create real change in the building industry, we need to foster a supportive environment.  So, if you’re noticing someone who might be struggling, or if you’re feeling overwhelmed yourself, now is the time to take that first step. Reach out, ask the question, and make a difference. You don't have to be a professional to make a difference. Just being a caring human being who reaches out can have a significant impact.

LINKS:

Learn more about R U OK? Day: http://www.ruok.org.au/

Connect with our Guest: 

Website: https://www.allmindspsychology.com.au/

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/