Uncovering The True Costs Of Sustainable Building With Matthew Carland Building With BuildHer podcast

18:37

In this episode, we sit down with DevelopHer Leanne Barbaro to unpack the journey of building her family home through a volume builder — and the gold is in the lessons learned. We talk through how volume building offers cost efficiencies but requires savvy planning to avoid cookie-cutter pitfalls. You’ll hear her tips on what to prioritise (hint: lighting!), how outdoor structures can impact natural light, and how long-term flexibility allows us to make up for the bold decisions we initially may not have been confident enough to make. Leanne shows us how you can work with the volume build model to create a home that’s personal, functional, and full of potential. Her story is also a fantastic reminder that a home doesn’t have to be finished the day you move in — it’s allowed to evolve. As your lifestyle shifts and your tastes mature, your home can grow with you. It’s not a fixed showpiece; it’s a living, changing space that reflects who you are and how you live. You can follow Leanne's future development adventures here . See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

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Design Smarter, Not Pricier – Where to Spend (and Where to Save) 17:58

13 weeks ago17:58

17:58

Let’s face it—your Pinterest board might have champagne taste, but your project budget is the reality check you need to consider. In this episode, Rebeka and BHC's Head of Interiors Rebecca, dive into the heart of what it really means to design smarter, not pricier. The key? Understanding the cost implications of your design choices from day one—and learning where a small tweak can save you thousands (without compromising on style). What you’ll learn: Why starting with a budget isn’t limiting—it’s empowering. How small design decisions can create big cost differences (hello $12K bath!). Smart swaps that deliver luxe looks without the luxury price tag. The hidden structural choices that silently eat into your budget. Why “design now, cost later” is a trap—and how to avoid it. You’ll also hear real stories (including a $1M design build turned $280K reno win) and relatable laughs as we keep it refreshingly real. Because building beautifully on a budget is completely possible! Tune in to learn how to take control of your design story—on your terms, and within your means. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

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Tapware Talk 101: Durability, Quality, and Longevity with ABI Interiors 31:44

15 weeks ago31:44

31:44

This week, we dive deep into the world of tapware with Rhys Beal from ABI Interiors—unpacking how this once purely functional hardware has evolved into a style statement and investment decision all on its own. You’ll get the inside scoop on how tapware has transformed over the years, moving beyond chrome to a stunning palette of finishes and materials. Rhys shares everything you didn’t know you needed to know about tapware—from durability and coatings to cost-effective design decisions that last. We talk about the differences between PVD, electroplating, lacquer coating, and powder coating and how ABI Interior's approach to manufacturing and product testing is raising the bar across the industry. (As well as some upcoming exciting new developments and product ranges!) Whether you’re designing your forever home or making strategic decisions on that next project, this episode will give you the clarity you need to make smart, stylish tapware choices. Head to their website to take a look at ABI Interiors' dreamy range of tapware, basins, sinks, vanities, baths, showers, and accessories as well as the great house tours and interviews they share on Instagram for inspo: abiinteriors.com.au @abiinteriors See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

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Beyond the Lens: The Secret to Picture-Perfect Real Estate with Spacecraft Media 42:13

16 weeks ago42:13

42:13

You’ve put your heart (and plenty of hard-earned money) into creating a beautiful home. But when it comes time to sell, it’s not just about showcasing the finishes, the fixtures, or the floor plan—it’s about selling a lifestyle. Cheyne Toomey of Spacecraft Media joins us in this episode to share the secret sauce of a successful sale: photos that don’t just show a house, but tell a story. Join us as we chat about why buyers need to see themselves in the space before they even step foot inside, and how the right images—ones that capture the essence of a life well-lived—can turn a listing from overlooked to irresistible. We cover: - The difference between standard real estate shots and lifestyle photography (and why it matters) - Simple ways to style and stage your home to make photos feel warm, aspirational, and lived-in - How to work with a photographer to create scroll-stopping images that emotionally connect with buyers If you’re a renovator, builder, or developer who’s serious about maximising your property’s value, this episode is packed with insights to help you attract the right buyers and secure the best possible price. Because in today’s market, it’s not just about selling a home—it’s about selling the dream. You can follow along as Spacecraft Media share some of their incredible work here: @spacecraft___ spacecraftmedia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

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Flow to Fortune: The Feng Shui Formula for Property Success with Kelly McCloskey 46:14

17 weeks ago46:14

46:14

In this episode, we chat with Kelly McCloskey from The Feng Shui Girl, a passionate expert in Feng Shui, uncovering how this ancient Chinese art of harmonising energy in spaces can directly influence your well-being, and even, property value. You'll get insights on how incorporating Feng Shui into your property design can enhance the flow of energy and attract higher-value buyers. Kelly breaks down the practical aspects of Feng Shui, from the ideal orientation of a home to subtle adjustments that can make all the difference in creating a positive living environment. She delves into key points to look out for when evaluating properties for renovation or development, ensuring you maximise not just the aesthetic appeal but also the energetic alignment of your project. This episode is perfect for those who want to elevate their projects with something extra – the power of energy flow! By the end, you’ll see how a well-balanced home can make your property stand out in a crowded market. Members - you are in for a treat! Stay tuned for more on this topic in April’s issue of the DevelopHer Inner Circle magazine, where we will explore Feng Shui in even more detail. Plus, don’t miss out on Kelly's upcoming event being held at BHC's own headquarters, where Kelly will be diving even deeper into this fascinating subject. Tickets are available here and available to all listeners—secure your spot and learn how to transform your property with the magic of Feng Shui! Follow Kelly online for more Feng Shui tips and insights: @thefengshuigirl See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

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How to Elevate your Lighting Game with About Space 41:01

18 weeks ago41:01

41:01

Lighting is one of those things that, when done right, you don’t even notice it, it just feels right—but when done wrong, it's so obvious and uncomfortable. Enter the importance of lighting design! In this episode, we chat with Jodie Meier from About Space, who shares why good lighting is about more than just picking pretty fixtures—it’s about creating mood, balance, and functionality. Jodie explains the importance of layering light with a mix of task, ambient, and feature lighting to make a home feel warm and inviting. She also dives into the great warm vs. cool lighting debate and how downlight overload is no-go. Whether you’re renovating, building, or planning your next project, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you think differently about lighting. Jodie shares why hallways deserve more love, how hidden uplights and wall washes can transform a space, and why planning your lighting early can save time, money, and frustration. If you want a home that feels as good as it looks, tune in for these expert tips that will help you see lighting in a whole new way! Head to About Space to see their dreamy lighting collection and follow them on Instagram too: aboutspace.net.au @aboutspacelighting See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

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Designing Moments – Why Form Comes Before Colour 31:16

19 weeks ago31:16

31:16

Ever walked into a home that just feels right? It’s not just about colour or finishes—it’s about the moments built into the design. In this episode, we sit down with Rebecca Papas , Head of Interior Design at BuildHer Collective, to talk about the importance of shaping a home’s form before even thinking about colour. Bec shares her own experience designing her family home, breaking down how to create thoughtful spaces that elevate everyday living. We cover: Designing for experience – How intentional sightlines (like placing a window to frame a tree) can completely transform a space. Creating practical, high-impact features – Why a built-in drying rack in the laundry could be a smarter investment than fancy tiles. Layering function and form – The art of balancing statement design choices, like sunken lounges and built-in seating, to create warmth and flow. Bringing the outside in – How flooring materials, window placement, and even landscaping choices can seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor spaces. Keeping flexibility in finishes – Why it’s essential to start with a strong structure, so you can adapt materials later without compromising the vision. Whether you’re renovating, building, or planning your dream home, this episode is packed with insights that will change the way you think about design. Tune in and learn why moments matter more than colour swatches! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

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From Wrecked to Remarkable: Roxy's Cost-Savvy Home Rebuild 29:04

20 weeks ago29:04

29:04

When a devastating storm left DevelopHer Roxy’s home in ruins, she faced the daunting task of rebuilding—not just her house, but her entire approach to home design. In this episode, Roxy shares how she turned a challenging situation into an opportunity to build smarter, proving that a beautiful, high-quality home doesn’t have to come with an overwhelming price tag. From navigating insurance limitations and council regulations to researching cost-effective materials and creative construction methods, she walks us through the resourceful choices that made her dream home a reality. Whether it was leveraging clever engineering solutions, mixing high-end finishes with budget-friendly alternatives, or making design decisions that maximised both function and style, Roxy’s journey is full of practical takeaways for anyone looking to renovate or rebuild efficiently. This episode is a must-listen for those who want to stretch their budget without compromising on quality, innovation, or beauty. You can see more of Roxy's journey here: @upperroomhouse See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

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Colour Outside the Lines: Creating Meaningful Spaces with Pip Brett 24:35

21 weeks ago24:35

24:35

In this fun episode with Pip Brett, founder of JUMBLED, we dive into all things interior design, art, and her exciting latest project, a renovated bank turned luxury short-stay accommodation in Malong NSW named Sona. She opens up about her creative process, how she plays with colour, and why supporting Aussie artists is so important to her. Pip also talks about how art can completely transform a space and encourages listeners to trust their gut when choosing pieces they love. Get ready to be inspired to create meaningful spaces as you learn how to select and hang art with flair, while infusing your projects with personality by embracing your own personal taste! You can follow Pip by heading to www.instagram.com/jumbledonline And don't forget to check out dreamy Sona www.instagram/sona.molong See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

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Room to Grow: Phasing Your Renovation Like a Pro 30:08

22 weeks ago30:08

30:08

In this episode, we dive into the art of renovating in phases—smart, strategic, and family-focused! Join us as we sit down with Anna Crawford, an incredible BuildHer and DevelopHer who has been part of our community for six years, and who we believe has mastered the balance of juggling a growing family and an ever-evolving home renovation. We chat about her beautiful latest project in Kew East, named 'Hale Cottage' and explore how to make spaces work best for your current needs while leaving room for future flexibility as your life and family expand. With thoughtful planning, you can transform your home into a sanctuary without compromising on comfort or style, all while staying on budget. Whether you're a seasoned developer or taking on your first project, this episode is a practical example of phasing renovations, creating multifunctional spaces, and future-proofing your design choices. Get ready to be inspired to think creatively and strategically about your next build or reno. This stunning renovation has to be seen to be appreciated and is currently on the market - so be quick if you'd like to snap up a dream home! You can also see more of Anna's journey on Instagram: @hemma.jord See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

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Mastering Natural Stone with Shaun from RMS Traders 55:35

23 weeks ago55:35

55:35

In this episode, we sit down with Shaun Palkhiwala from RMS Traders to talk about one of our favourite materials - natural stone! As someone who grew up in the family business, Shaun has a wealth of knowledge on the beauty and durability of natural stone, and he offers insightful tips on how to select the perfect stone for your next project, ensuring that you balance both aesthetics and practicality. We discuss everything from the importance of sealing stone to make it low-maintenance, to how to navigate the variety of stone options out there—like quartzite, limestone, and travertine. Shaun breaks down how to manage those inevitable stone variances and how to communicate your vision with suppliers to get the best result. He also shares clever ideas for creating unique finishes, like tumbling stone for that beautiful velvety texture or experimenting with linear cobbles to add depth and warmth to your design. If you're someone who loves the timeless appeal of natural stone and wants to get the most out of your next project, this episode is for you! With 3 showrooms located in Richmond, Geelong and Hoppers Crossing, RMS Traders is one of the largest importers and stockists of natural stone tiles in Australia since 1986. Check them out at: https://naturalstonetiles.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

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From Pinterest to Practical: The Art of Designing Spaces That Work with Rebecca Papas 35:36

24 weeks ago35:36

35:36

In this episode, Rebeka welcomes listeners back to the podcast for 2025 and introduces a new series of design chats she will regularly host with BuildHer Collective’s Head of Interiors, Rebecca Papas. Rebeka and Rebecca dive into what they believe are the fundamentals of interior design, focusing on understanding a client’s lifestyle to create a home that truly works for them. They discuss real client briefs as examples of how individual needs can differ and share the design solutions they developed to help their daily life flow more seamlessly. Whether it’s finding the perfect spot for that show-stopping island bench or discovering clever ways to hide clutter, their approach centers on thoughtful choices that balance form and function. They also explore the balance between aesthetics and cost-effective strategies, and how creating customised systems for each space can make a room not only beautiful but practical too. This episode is perfect for anyone looking to get the most out of their spaces without sacrificing style. Whether you're managing a large project or seeking smart design tips, this discussion will offer plenty of inspiration as you plan your next build! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

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Being Bold, Taking Risks and Finding Your Own Personal Style with Nickolas Gurtler 36:28

31 weeks ago36:28

36:28

We're excited to be joined by Nickolas Gurtler in today's episode - an award-winning Interior Designer who has fast become renowned for his bold and luxurious style. Nickolas' journey didn’t start with blueprints and fabric swatches—it began in the fast-paced, visually rich world of merchandising, where every display told a story. He shares with us how those early days shaped his fearless approach to design, where luxury and boldness take center stage. He takes us behind the scenes, from tackling the delicate balance between client dreams and his own creative vision, why to avoid trends, as well as the choices that he believes matter most— like the importance of lighting, tactile experiences, when to edit/pivot and the role of moodboards in creating cohesive spaces. Nickolas explains why taking risks can completely transform a space and why you should take the leap, because thoughtful design connects people to their homes in ways they might not expect. He shares his practical tips to help you to bring your own bold ideas to life. So if you've ever wanted to ditch the safe choices and make bolder design moves, this is the conversation that will leave you feeling inspired! You can learn more about Nickolas and see some of his stunning projects by visiting: https://www.nickolasgurtler.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/nickolasgurtler/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

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A Celebration of March Studio - Making Architecture, Material & Process 33:19

32 weeks ago33:19

33:19

In this episode, Rebeka sits down with Fleur Watson and Anne-Laure Cavigneaux to chat about the incredible new book, March Studio: Making Architecture, Material and Process. A collaboration between RMIT and Thames & Hudson, this monograph dives deep into March Studio's unique approach to design, from their early days crafting iconic Aesop interiors to their larger-scale public projects today. Fleur, the author, reveals how the book captures not just the finished projects but also the creative journey behind the scenes—prototyping, experimenting, and collaborating. Anne-Laure shares how seeing their work through Fleur's eyes was like looking in the mirror for the first time and discovering themes that connected their projects in ways they hadn’t realised. The conversation also explores the value of creativity, resilience, and trust in client relationships. It is a celebration of the artistry and innovation evident in March Studio’s work while encouraging architects and designers to embrace experimentation and collaboration. So, grab a coffee and have a listen, we are sure you'll then want to get your hands on a copy of the book to flip through the pages and get inspired by the endless possibilities of architecture that dare to be different. It's a coffee table favourite here at BuildHer Collective HQ! Learn more about March Studio and to place your order of the book, head to: https://www.march.studio See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

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Let There Be Light: Designing Spaces That Shine with Danielle from Lights Lights Lights 40:53

33 weeks ago40:53