Get It Right with Undercover Architect
Amelia Lee, Undercover Architect
If we haven’t met before, I’m Amelia Lee, the architect behind Undercover Architect: an online business to help and teach homeowners like you how to get it right when designing, building and renovating your home. Undercover Architect is all about giving you access to the industry knowledge and insights you need to avoid the mistakes and dramas that can cost you thousands, tens of thousands and even hundreds of thousands of dollars. And it’s about levelling the playing field, so that the world of renovating and building doesn’t seem so mysterious, and you can be the active driver in your project, navigating it with know-how and confidence.
Undercover Architect helps and teaches homeowners through this podcast, the website, and online courses and programs, including my flagship program, HOME Method. I truly believe that when you know the questions to ask, the steps to take and the best way to create a home that works, feels great, and that you feel great in, you can enjoy the process of building and renovating, as well as the home you move into at the end of this ambitious journey.
Consider Undercover Architect your secret ally: whoever you’re working with, and whatever your location, your budget or your dreams. For more, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com
Undercover Architect helps and teaches homeowners through this podcast, the website, and online courses and programs, including my flagship program, HOME Method. I truly believe that when you know the questions to ask, the steps to take and the best way to create a home that works, feels great, and that you feel great in, you can enjoy the process of building and renovating, as well as the home you move into at the end of this ambitious journey.
Consider Undercover Architect your secret ally: whoever you’re working with, and whatever your location, your budget or your dreams. For more, head to www.undercoverarchitect.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
8 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 24min
Pre-Build: How to Make Confident, Clear Decisions when Renovating or Building
In this engaging discussion, the focus is on navigating the crucial pre-build phase of projects. Key topics include the importance of finalizing decisions and avoiding common pitfalls like rushing through choices. Listeners learn strategic research techniques for finishes and how to effectively review drawings and construction contracts. Amelia emphasizes savvy builder selection and managing administrative tasks to set the stage for a smoother construction experience. These insights aim to enhance confidence and reduce stress for anyone preparing to build or renovate.
9 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 25min
Design: How to Make Confident, Clear Decisions when Renovating or Building
Discover how to navigate the thrilling yet daunting Design Phase of your renovation or new build. Gain insights into building confidence and clarity to simplify your decisions. Learn to translate your ideas into functional drawings that reflect your lifestyle goals. Understand the importance of evaluating your project team for smooth sailing. Plus, find out what truly constitutes good design and why it’s more about functionality than aesthetics. Get ready to empower your building journey!
Sep 22, 2025 • 28min
Pre-Design: How to Make Confident, Clear Decisions when Renovating or Building
The focus on pre-design highlights how essential it is for successful home projects. Discover why homeowners crave clarity and confidence throughout renovations. Learn about the often-skipped pre-design phase and its serious consequences. Amelia shares insights on local rules and site analysis to inform design choices, emphasizing the value of early professional input to avoid costly mistakes. The message is clear: investing in pre-design builds the foundation for a smoother, more efficient project and minimizes stress.
5 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 44min
What happens after you sign the building contract? The journey to site start, with Ben
Join Ben as he navigates the thrilling journey after signing the building contract for his Melbourne Bungalow. Discover how he tackled legal reviews, navigated delicate discussions with his builder, and dealt with insurance delays. Ben shares his personal insights on relationship-building, handling budget contingencies, and ensuring effective communication on-site. His reflections on remaining curious and engaged throughout the construction process provide valuable advice for anyone embarking on a renovation journey.
11 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 40min
What to do before signing a building contract, and save time, money and stress, with Ben
Join Ben as he shares his journey of selecting a builder, emphasizing the importance of due diligence and effective communication. Discover how he navigated revised quotes that unveiled hidden costs and learned the art of validating builder bids. Ben highlights the crucial steps taken before signing the contract, including locking in detailed selections and managing client-builder relations. He reveals the benefits of structured site meetings and how an informed client can significantly enhance the building experience. This conversation is packed with practical insights for anyone in the construction process!
10 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 47min
Planning Kitchens, Bathrooms and Finance for a Sustainable New Build, with Tatiana
Join a captivating discussion as a homeowner navigates the ins and outs of designing a sustainable new build. Topics include smart choices for kitchen and bathroom layouts tailored to climate and maintenance needs. Discover creative solutions for windowless showers and the balance of research with budget constraints. The conversation also dives into the financial overwhelm many face, highlighting key documents for discussions with mortgage brokers and the importance of blower door tests for energy efficiency. Tune in for insights and strategies!
9 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 43min
Designing a Functional Family Home on a Budget, with Tatiana
Tatiana shares her journey of designing a family home while navigating budget constraints. She discusses the impact of a tight budget on disciplined design choices, including a debate about adding a third toilet. The L-shaped layout enhances functionality, and the design process emphasizes collaboration with her builder. They explore entry design and layout features like a mudroom and alfresco space, all while balancing personal ideas with professional guidance. Insights into planning roof options and maximizing space are also highlighted.
11 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 43min
Navigating Interior Design and Other Project Choices for a New Build, with Jan and Landon
Jan and Landon, homeowners from Sydney, share their journey of building a passive house. They discuss the progress on their granny flat and the hiccups they've encountered with stormwater management. Jan opens up about her struggles choosing an interior designer and fixtures for the kitchen and bathroom. Amelia provides helpful insights on visualizing selections and ensuring aesthetic coherence. The podcast also touches on meaningful moments like their sod-turning ceremony, blending functionality with design.
Aug 11, 2025 • 44min
Passive House Design and Budget Lessons: Project Update, with Jan and Landon
Jan and Landon share their journey of building a Passive House in Sydney, emphasizing sustainability and age-in-place design. They discuss their current project status, detailing the unique features of their main house and granny flat. The couple navigates design challenges while keeping costs in check, collaborating closely with their architect and builder. They reflect on accessibility considerations and the practical impacts of budgeting on material choices. Their proactive project management ensures a well-organized build process, supported by a skilled team.
Jul 21, 2025 • 32min
How to Avoid the Drama in Your Renovation or New Build
Discover how the Drama Triangle can impact communication in your renovation projects. Uncover the roles of Victim, Persecutor, and Rescuer that can lead to stress and misunderstandings. Learn about the Empowerment Dynamic, which offers a clearer path to handling conflicts with confidence. Explore the PAC model and how personal history shapes interactions. Gain insights on how to transition from drama roles to becoming a Creator, Challenger, or Coach, empowering you to reclaim control over your project journey.
