After I had finished my Archi Masters I was working for an architecture firm who also did a small amount of work for a volume builder. They were actually a pretty good quality builder and at least got the orientation of their 'pre-designed' plans correct. We had the ability to make minor changes to every job and it pained me to see so many simple to implement passive options not being incorporated. Had most of their clients known that they would be saving MONEY over the longterm by making a few minor changes to suit their site, they all would have done it. The problem is unless someone can sell this idea to them as a financial/lifestyle choice, many just think it is about saving the world. It is a no-brainer if you have in interest in it, but for those who don't know, there is no-one there selling it to them, especially on the lower end of the market.

Rendering a house is an irreversible change, and FYI the spelling of my name is Eastern European - I'm named after my great grandmother, who was Polish and whose name was also spelled that way, so no, my spelling has not been modernised. How insular of you to assume it was. And even if it had been, I didn't choose my name - my parents did, as most people's parents did. You may not understand the heritage value of the midcentury, but that's exactly my point - in the 60s and 70s, no one understood Victorian and Edwardian houses had heritage value, so they vandalised them. These days, people like you don't understand the heritage value of the midcentury, so they rip it down or vandalise it. You're repeating history and you don't even know it.

Hi 1991_kid If your intention is to be cost effective there are a number of approaches that you might like to take, however, the first plan of approach would be to gather as much information as possible before you begin construction. Most of this will be achieved by having a good set of drawings specifications and a very good research on materials and labor which are available in the area with reduced transport costs. This is some of the approaches that I would take; 1. If you are thinking of using a building company to do your house to "lock up" you may need to register as "an owners builder" you can find more info here or from your private "Building Surveyor", on an internet search 2. If you are thinking of using a building company that does "Design and construct" I would have a careful read of this article on my website. http://www.newhomedesign.com.au/index.php/faqs-article-based/faq-9 3. When you are considering your design I would have an independent person preferably one that does it for a living and has a few years experience monitor or vets your design. Consulting fees might be expensive but it's the only way that you will get an independent design appraisal. 4. Eventually you will have to do your "permit drawings" - Working Drawings and specifications - in Victoria these must be done by a registered person - you do not want the Builder to be responsible for this part as the person he employs will be loyal to him as he is likely to give him further work, you will most likely just give him one job, so it would be reasonable to assume that in any consideration or dispute he will take the side of the Builder - regardless what is said at the beginning. (You may also need a town planning permit depending on your circumstances) 5. You will have to vet your possible Builders and time with your build, I suggest that even if an amount of traveling is required you eventually do this face to face with at least three of your final picks - you have to get on with your Builder so a major effort on research is definitely required. It should be clear and in writing which items the Builder will purchase on your behalf, who pays for delivery and who does the installation especially of such items like windows, doors, landscaping and so on, and which items you will purchase ... etc. Specifications are nothing more than a "list" - try to keep it simple but be specific, but make sure it is written down and signed by both parties. 6. You can only get a "true tender price" from a builder that thinks he can get the job - and you can only achieve this if you have very good drawings and specifications else even a small error of 10% may mean $30,000+ depending on your overall costs. All other prices are a guestimate - a meter squared rate by the number of squared meters will give you a price - ask the builder for the approximate meter squared rate. There are many more twists and turn in this process of part/ self-build, wish you the best with your en devours, I would be happy to consult further if requested. Regards Michael.

How's it going ? U in yet? You loving the country life? Great flower stalls on that road, or use to be! $2 bunches.. Can you look at my 'tiny house' the size of your powder room..lol https://www.houzz.com.au/discussions/6042198/those-with-an-eye-for-colour If you have any other ideas. I got some good ones already. But throw any more around that you think might work.