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The Blue Couch

The Blue Couch

By: Michael Ross & Jacob Hipwood
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About this listen

Brisbane’s building design duo, Jacob and Michael, are here to change the way you approach your building journey. Each week, they share expert insights on how to get your project designed and built right, with the right team involved at the right time. From reputable builders to finance brokers, engineers, interior designers, and more, they explore how working together leads to smoother, smarter builds. And, of course, they’re having a bit of fun along the way. Tune in for real advice, a few laughs, and everything you need to know about building your dream home.




© 2025 The Blue Couch
Episodes
  • Building Codes, Safety and Trust: A Certifiers Perspective

    Building Codes, Safety and Trust: A Certifiers Perspective
    Jun 5 2025

    #4 This week on "The Blue Couch" we chat with Mick Tyrrell from Building Approvals and Advice (BA&A). Mick dishes out some great advice on the building approval process and where to start when building your dream home. As Mick states "the certification process can be complex, but understanding the rules early and working with experienced professionals creates the best chance for a successful outcome."

    check out BA&A here...

    https://www.buildingaaa.com.au/

    Check out Jacob at JMH Designs here...

    jmhdesigns.au

    Check out Michael at MR designs here...

    michaelandruysch.com.au
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 5 mins
  • The Dream Crusher: Why Town Planners Should Be Your First Call, Not Your Last.

    The Dream Crusher: Why Town Planners Should Be Your First Call, Not Your Last.
    May 8 2025

    #2 Peta Charles from Brisbane Town Planning reveals why understanding development approvals is crucial for homeowners and how seeking expert advice early can save time, money, and emotional distress.

    Check out Brisbane Town Planning here...

    www.brisbanetp.com.au

    Check out Jacob at JMH Designs here...

    jmhdesigns.au

    Check out Michael at MR designs here...

    michaelandruysch.com.au
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 22 mins
  • The Chicken Before the Egg: Where to Start When Designing Your Dream Home.

    The Chicken Before the Egg: Where to Start When Designing Your Dream Home.
    Apr 16 2025

    #2 On this weeks episode Jacob and Michael explore the crucial elements of successful home design and construction, focusing on how proper planning and collaboration prevent costly mistakes and ensure dream homes become reality.

    Check out Jacob at JMH Designs here...

    jmhdesigns.au

    Check out Michael at MR designs here...

    michaelandruysch.com.au

    • 0:45 Design Trends and Style Choices
    • 3:35 Traditional vs Modern Home Costs
    • 6:13 Budget Challenges and Priorities
    • 10:49 Consultant Roles in Design Process
    • 17:59 Timeline from Design to Construction
    • 26:53 Common Mistakes in Building Projects
    • 33:40 Budgeting Realities and Investment Mindset
    Show More Show Less
    45 mins
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