Why does building or renovating feel so risky right now? If you’ve been thinking about starting a new build or extension but feel unsure, hesitant, or overwhelmed, this episode of the Building Design, Prime Time Podcast is for you.

In this final episode for 2025, Amelia and Frank unpack why confidence in the building process has shifted over recent years. From rapidly rising construction costs and labour shortages to planning complexity, approval delays, and supply chain uncertainty, they explain what’s really driving that sense of risk, and why it’s not just about money. Frank shares insights from decades in the industry, explaining how risk has moved away from builders and now sits much more heavily with homeowners, particularly when it comes to contracts, price increases, and late-stage changes.

The conversation explores how many building problems actually start long before construction begins, often due to poor research, unrealistic expectations, or assumptions made during the design phase. They discuss why estimates feel “rubbery,” why fixed-price contracts are harder to secure, and how small decisions around land choice, materials, or selections can have major cost and timing impacts later on.

Most importantly, this episode focuses on what you can do to reduce that risk. You’ll learn why early planning, asking better questions, choosing experienced professionals, and making informed decisions upfront can dramatically reduce stress, delays, and disputes.

If building feels risky right now, this episode will help you understand why, and show you how to approach the process with far more clarity and confidence. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode.

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004. Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at info@primedesigntas.com.au

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company. All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

In this engaging episode of the Building Design, Prime Time podcast, hosts Amelia and Frank Geskus dive deep into one of the biggest questions facing property investors today, should you renovate an existing home or build a new one? With their signature mix of expertise and down-to-earth conversation, they unpack the pros, cons, and hidden traps of both approaches, offering invaluable insights for anyone looking to make smart, informed property decisions.

Frank and Amelia explore everything from the emotional and financial challenges of entering Australia’s real estate market to the practical realities of planning approvals, renovation risks, and site constraints. They discuss how factors like location, thermal efficiency, maintenance costs, and tenant demand all influence whether a renovation or new build will deliver the best return. Along the way, they share entertaining real-world examples and a few personal lessons learned “the hard way.”

Listeners will appreciate the duo’s honest, relatable tone blending humour with hands-on experience as they tackle topics like over-designing for personal taste, choosing the right builder, and understanding what today’s tenants truly want. The episode wraps up with a passionate discussion about Australia’s housing shortage and the vital role private investors play in meeting rental demand.

Whether you’re a first-time investor, a seasoned property owner, or simply curious about building design, this episode offers practical wisdom, thoughtful reflection, and a healthy dose of inspiration. Tune in to Building Design Prime Time Podcast, where real insights meet real-life building stories.

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004. Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at info@primedesigntas.com.au

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company. All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

In this episode of the Building Design, Prime Time Podcast, Frank and Amelia sit down with Sophie from Harrington Road to explore the emotional, practical, and financial challenges of downsizing, transitioning into aged care, or managing a deceased estate. Sophie shares how her team supports clients through every step of the process, from assessing human needs and property potential, to guiding families through decluttering, organising belongings, and navigating legal and financial considerations. Sophie highlights the services her team can provide in order to refresh and renovate a property, increasing the overall value without any upfront cost.

Listeners will hear real-life stories of quirky, unique, and even surprising collections uncovered during transitions, from vintage carpets and retro furniture to dolls and stamp collections, and how Harrington Road helps families decide what to keep, gift, or sell. Sophie explains how a targeted, strategic refresh of a property can dramatically increase its market value, sometimes by thousands of dollars, compared to focusing on selling individual items.

The conversation also highlights the importance of early planning, having those often “awkward conversations,” and knowing your options before a transition occurs. Whether it’s temporary storage, accommodation, or hands-on support with sorting belongings, Harrington Road tailors their services to each client’s needs, reducing stress and making the process smoother for everyone involved.

This episode is full of practical advice, heartfelt insights, and inspiring stories about bringing relief, clarity, and care to families during challenging times.

If you’re interested in learning how to make these transitions easier, increase your property’s value, or simply hear about the unique stories behind homes and their people, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

Subscribe to the Building Design Prime Time Podcast now so you never miss an episode!

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004. Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at info@primedesigntas.com.au

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company. All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

Designing your dream home is exciting, but designing it on a rural block? That’s a whole new adventure. In this episode of the Building Design, Prime Time Podcast, Amelia steps into the client’s chair as she and Frank unpack the real, unfiltered process of creating a home from the ground up as Amelia navigates going through the process of getting the first floorplan concept for her new home.

From interpreting the very first concept sketch to navigating natural light, orientation, and the realities of off-grid living, this episode gives you a rare behind-the-scenes look at what really happens in the early stages of residential design. Amelia shares her own learnings, the questions she didn’t realise she needed to ask, and how 3D modelling helped bring her rural home to life long before anything is built.

Frank dives into why honest feedback is essential, how to balance the wishlist with budget, and the role of “compromise moments” when two people are designing one home. They also explore the hidden costs of building on acreage, think tanks, pumps, power runs, wastewater systems, sheds, and even the potential for a future granny flat.

Whether you’re planning a rural build, considering a renovation, or simply love understanding how good design comes together, this episode is packed with relatable insights, practical advice, and a few laughs along the way.

If you enjoy this conversation, make sure you subscribe so you never miss an episode, and dive into our library of past episodes for more guidance on building, design, approvals, and choosing the right team for your project. Your dream home starts with the right knowledge, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004. Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at info@primedesigntas.com.au

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company. All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

Are you looking to make your home more comfortable, efficient, and safe, but aren’t sure where to start? In this episode of the Building Design, Prime Trime Podcast, Frank and Amelia dive deep into the world of retrofitting and home upgrades, sharing practical insights for homeowners who want to improve their existing spaces without breaking the bank.

From choosing the right insulation and roof ventilation for Tasmanian conditions, they cover the must-know tips for keeping your home in top shape. Electrical upgrades, smart lighting, surge protection, and planning for future EV chargers are all explained in simple, easy-to-understand terms, so you know what investments really matter.

The conversation also explores water and plumbing improvements, including hot water systems, dual-flush toilets, and rainwater tanks, as well as safety-focused retrofits for aging in place. Frank shares expert advice on wider doorways, non-slip flooring, flush-entry showers, grab rails, sensor lights, and even induction cooktops, small changes that make a huge difference for comfort and peace of mind.

They also discuss retrofits to avoid, including common pitfalls when converting sunrooms or sheds into bedrooms, or tackling asbestos cladding without proper planning. Throughout the episode, the focus is on maximising safety, efficiency, and enjoyment of your home while planning upgrades that will truly add value.

Whether you’re thinking about your next renovation or just curious about practical ways to future-proof your home, this episode is packed with tips, expert advice, and real-world experiences you won’t want to miss. Subscribe to the Building Design, Prime Time Podcast to catch this and other episodes full of valuable insights for homeowners.

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004. Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at info@primedesigntas.com.au

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company. All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

In this episode of the Building Design, Prime Time podcast, Amelia and Frank pull back the curtain on one of the biggest challenges in Australia’s building and design industry, the lack of communication and consistency between systems, departments, and even states. Following on from their previous podcast discussion about the five key systems involved in every building project, they dive deeper into how these systems often operate in isolation, creating confusion, delays, and frustration for homeowners and professionals alike.

Frank explains how licensing requirements, building codes, and approval processes differ drastically between states, and how even the National Construction Code (NCC) is interpreted differently depending on where you build. From bushfire regulations and thermal performance standards to planning terminology and Tasmanian-specific requirements, the pair highlight just how complex the landscape really is.

They also explore how Tasmania’s CBOS system and statewide planning scheme have helped improve consistency, while acknowledging that constant regulation changes and communication barriers between authorities still pose major challenges. Throughout the episode, Amelia and Frank share their insights on how Prime Design acts as the “translator” between these disconnected systems, bringing together planners, engineers, surveyors, and councils to ensure clients’ projects move smoothly through approvals.

If you’ve ever wondered why building can feel so complicated, or what really goes on behind the scenes to get your permits approved, this episode is a must-listen. It’s a revealing look at the hidden complexity of Australia’s building process and how expert coordination makes all the difference.

An episode not to be missed! If you love this episode be sure to subscribe so you don't miss any in the future.

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004. Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at info@primedesigntas.com.au

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company. All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

In this episode of the Building Design, Prime Time Podcast, Frank and Amelia pull back the curtain on one of the biggest misconceptions in the industry, that building designers just “draw plans.” They reveal the hidden complexity behind every project, explaining how designers must navigate five parallel systems planning, building, site and infrastructure, technical disciplines, and title/legal implications each with its own rule book, language, and bureaucracy. These systems don’t communicate with each other, leaving homeowners stuck trying to make sense of red tape, conflicting interpretations, and ever-changing regulations.

Frank and Amelia share real-world examples of clients who faced costly setbacks after venturing too far outside the planning scheme and offer practical advice on how to avoid the same fate. They discuss the importance of due diligence before purchasing land or beginning an extension and explain why the true value of a designer lies in their ability to coordinate, interpret, and translate across all these systems and what can go wrong if you decide to coordinate these aspects yourself without the know how.

Whether you’re planning to build, renovate, or simply want to understand what really happens behind the scenes, this episode will give you a whole new appreciation for the role of a building designer, the professionals who “speak all five languages, so you don’t have to.”

An episode not to be missed be sure to subscribe so you don't miss and episode!

About us
Prime Design is a building design company locally owned and operated in Tasmania since 2004. Our goal is to share as much valuable information as possible about the process of building design, extensions, and more. We will talk about a different topic each week. To suggest a topic you would like us to talk about contact us at info@primedesigntas.com.au

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company. All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.

Disclaimer
The information provided on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, individual circumstances, or remedy. We strongly suggest you consult a qualified professional before taking any action based on the information provided in this podcast. The views, opinions, and information provided in this podcast are those of the hosts do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organisation, employer, or company. All content provided on this podcast is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, or damages arising from its use. We reserve the right to change content or delete any information provided on this podcast at any time without prior notice.