Hello! This is Episode 370, and in it, I’m catching up again with HOME Method member, Tatiana, as she continues the journey of designing and planning her new family home in regional Queensland with her partner and three boys.

In this episode, we dive into more of the details, including exploring how Tatiana is thinking ahead about her kitchen and bathrooms, researching materials and layouts that will work for her climate, and looking at ways to minimise maintenance and avoid common pitfalls.

[For all resources mentioned in this podcast and a free, downloadable PDF transcript, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com/370]

In Part 1 in the last podcast, Episode 369, we talked about keeping the design simple to suit their budget, making key layout choices, how Tatiana has found their budget constraints helpful to keep them on track, and collaborating closely with their building designer and builder.  (You can find that episode at www.undercoverarchitect.com/369)

In Part 2, we talk about navigating cost allowances, how to work with joiners and suppliers when budgets are tight, and where off-the-shelf items might make sense. 

And Tatiana shares her honest thoughts on finance, including the overwhelm many homeowners feel, and we discuss when and how to start meaningful conversations with a mortgage broker to support design decisions.

Lastly, we explore blower door testing, what it is, when to do it, and how it can improve building performance, especially in sustainable or airtight homes.

If you’re preparing for your own project and want to hear how to juggle big-picture planning with the smaller details, while keeping your budget and goals in balance, I think you’ll find this episode really valuable.

Remember, if you’d like to grab a full transcript of this episode, plus links to resources we discuss, you can find it by heading to www.undercoverarchitect.com/370.

Now, let’s dive in!

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST:

For links, images and resources mentioned in this podcast, head to >>> www.undercoverarchitect.com/370

Accessing my free '44 Ways' E-Book will simplify sustainability and help you create a healthy, low tox and sustainable home. You can download your free copy here >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/ways

Access the support and guidance you need to be confident and empowered when designing, renovating or building your future home inside my signature online program, HOME Method >>> https://undercoverarchitect.com/courses/the-home-method/

Just a reminder: All content on this podcast is provided by Undercover Architect for reference purposes and as general guidance. It does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in any circumstances, including but not limited to circumstances where loss or damage may result. The views and opinions of any guests on the podcast are solely their own. They may not reflect the views of Undercover Architect. Undercover Architect endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or has become inaccurate over time.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.