Building or renovating a home can be a daunting journey, filled with unexpected twists and turns. As a homeowner, you have a crucial role to play, but knowing exactly what that is can be challenging. Australian Build Stories is here to guide you through every step. Join host Sam Payne as he chats with real people who share their experiences, from their triumphs to their challenges. Discover practical advice, relatable stories, and a fresh perspective on creating your right home.
Aishe | Character Home Renovation | Mediterranean Inspired Interiors | Regional Victoria
In this episode, first time home owner and renovater Aishe, shares her renovation journey of her 3 x 1 character home. She absoluteley nails the design intent (which you can see on her socials - link below).
Tune in to learn how you can create a home that matches your pinterest board, as well as hear candid advice on what to avoid, like this: https://www.tiktok.com/@slowstonestudio/video/7343557530934594834?lang=en
See the home
https://www.instagram.com/slowstonestudio/
https://www.tiktok.com/@slowstonestudio?lang=en
Disclaimer: All content is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as professional advice. For more details, please see our full disclaimer at Australian Build Stories Disclaimer.
11 Mar 2025
Industry Insights | Expert Bathroom Tips with TileCloud & Yabby Co-Founder Drew Mansur
Insights and Tips for a Successful Bathroom Renovation
In this episode of Australian Build Stories, host Sam Payne delves into the world of bathroom renovations with guest Drew, co-founder of TileCloud and Yabby tapware. Drew shares his journey from growing up on a farm to making a career in construction and renovations. The conversation covers essential advice for renovators, including recalibrating expectations, understanding realistic timelines, choosing quality materials, and paying attention to the functionality and aesthetic value of a space. Drew emphasizes the importance of prototyping and planning, as well as tips for lighting and material selection. Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical tips for your renovation project.
00:00 Origin Story: From Farm to Construction
01:42 Introduction
02:06 Bathroom Renovation Tips
05:18 Practical Advice for Renovators
12:16 Material Selection and Functionality
19:45 Tile Selection and Installation Challenges
29:51 Lighting Design and Its Impact
35:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Resources
Bathroom Measurements Cheat Sheet: https://www.australianbuildstories.com/bathroom-renovation-guide
Vanity companies mentioned in the show:
ADP - https://www.adpaustralia.com.au/bathroom/vanities/
Marquis - https://marquis.com.au/vanities/
Timberline - https://timberline.com.au/
Issy (referred to as Zuzu) - https://www.reece.com.au/bathrooms/brands/issy
Drew's companies:
TileCloud - https://tilecloud.com.au/
Yabby Tapware - https://yabby.com.au/
Read the full show notes at https://www.australianbuildstories.com/podcast/ep-008 (https://www.australianbuildstories.com/podcast/ep-008)
Disclaimer: All content is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as professional advice. For more details, please see our full disclaimer at Australian Build Stories Disclaimer.
19 Feb 2025
Georgia | Bathroom Renovation Nightmare
In this episode, Georgia shares her experience with a bathroom renovation gone wrong. Georgia and her partner had just bought their first place, which required a complete bathroom overhaul due to its unrealistic layout. They initially hired a family friend builder, but soon faced a series of avoidable errors and missteps, including improper waterproofing, incorrect piping, and faulty tiling. Despite these setbacks, Georgia and her partner managed to turn things around with a new project team. Her story emphasises the importance of choosing the right tradespeople, planning thoroughly, and finding reliable resources for guidance.
Resources
Bathroom Measurements Cheat Sheet: https://www.australianbuildstories.com/bathroom-renovation-guide
Reece Bathroom Renovation Guide (love this): https://www.reece.com.au/bathrooms/bathroom-renovation-guide (https://www.reece.com.au/bathrooms/bathroom-renovation-guide)
Georgia
Socials https://www.instagram.com/okwithmyhands/
Georgia Bathroom Vlog https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ChRNTXPnH98
Read the full show notes at https://www.australianbuildstories.com/podcast/ep-007
Disclaimer: All content is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as professional advice. For more details, please see our full disclaimer at Australian Build Stories Disclaimer.
20 Jan 2025
Gino Premici | Owner Building | Hamptons Style, Two-Storey Build
In this episode, Gino shares his owner build journey which he completed with his wife Marie whilst working full time. In his role as the General Manager of Home Base Design and Build Centre, Gino has some key advice for other budding Owner Builders or renovators. A must-listen if you're considering the Owner Builder path.
Resources
Home Base Owner Builder Course - https://www.homebaseperth.com.au/shop/courses/owner-builder-course/
Read the full show notes at https://www.australianbuildstories.com/podcast/ep-006
Disclaimer: All content is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as professional advice. For more details, please see our full disclaimer at Australian Build Stories Disclaimer.
2 Dec 2024
Gen | Character Renovation | Autism-Friendly Design, Sensory Insights | Multi-Generational Living, Character Home, Architect Designed
Gen shares her journey of renovating an autism-friendly character home with architect-designed, multi-generational living spaces that prioritize sensory insights and calm environments.
29 Oct 2024
Designing the Dream Home: Insights from Karijini House with Tenille Teakle- Forever home, Two Storey, Small block, Rammed Concrete, Custom Design.
Join Sam Payne in the latest episode of Australian Build Stories, as he speaks with a commercial interior architect and multi-builder, about the remarkable journey of building Karijini House, the long-term family home she and her husband constructed in Perth.
They delve into the challenges faced, from initial design sketches made during a camping trip to the complexities and stress of balancing the project with family life, budget control, and material shortages. Tenille shares invaluable insights on maintaining a cohesive design narrative, involving oneself deeply in the project, and the importance of cost transparency. This episode highlights the perseverance required in building a dream home and the ultimate rewards of creating a space designed for you.
2 Oct 2024
A Renovation Rethink: How a Change of Perspective Transformed Orla's Home - Volume Builder, Two Storey, Renovation, Small Block
Join Orla as she shares her story of re-evaluating her home and lifestyle. Initially, they built a two-story dream house on a smaller block with a volume builder. However, as life changed, it became clear they needed a different approach.
Tune in to learn valuable lessons about home design, overcoming spatial constraints, and turning those limitations into opportunities. Learn how you too can transform your space to better align with how you live. Whether you're planning a major renovation or simply looking for inspiration on making the most of your space, this podcast will provide practical tips and insights to help you create a your home.
Show Notes and Resources - https://www.australianbuildstories.com/
2 Oct 2024
Multiple builds and a forever home - Heritage Renovation, Sloping Block, Subdivision, Hands-on approach
Join us as Andrew shares insights from his array of build and renovation projects across Perth. Andrew discusses the importance of long-term planning, the art of budgeting effectively, and the challenges of balancing design with practicality. Discover how his previous experiences have shaped his approach to building and how he's had a methodical approach allowing him to gradually work up to his dream home.
Show notes and resources - https://www.australianbuildstories.com/
2 Oct 2024
How a Beer and Conversation Changed Architect Nic Brunsdons Housing Plans - New Build, Basement, Architect Designed
Join us as we dive into the captivating story of Nic Brunsdon, an architect who embarked on a decade-long journey to build his dream home. From initial design to facing countless setbacks, Nic shares the highs, lows, and valuable lessons learned throughout this arduous process. Discover the unexpected twists and turns that led him to ultimately abandon his dreams of building his own plans for a more practical and fulfilling living solution. Hear about the challenges faced, the sacrifices made, and the insights gained that could be invaluable to anyone considering a similar endeavor.
Show Notes and Resources - https://www.australianbuildstories.com/podcast/ep-001
Nic Brunsdon Architecture Studio - https://www.brunsdonstudio.com/
16 Sept 2024
Trailer
In Australian Build Stories, Sam Payne dives deep into the heart of home construction. Join us for candid conversations with homeowners who've navigated the highs and lows of building or renovating. Discover unexpected surprises, practical tips, and valuable lessons learned. Whether you're dreaming of a new home or planning a major renovation, our stories will inspire and empower you. Subscribe now to receive notifications when new episodes are live.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
6,526
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Spotify
5.0 / 5
13 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 46 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
46
Social presence
0
YouTube
68
Engagement
51
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