The theory's one thing. Making it work on site? That's where it gets interesting.

In part two with Ben Walsham from Arkata, we get into the nitty-gritty of energy-efficient building—the stuff that separates good intentions from homes that actually perform. Ben walks us through a high-performance passive solar project in cold climate conditions, breaking down the real challenges: slab insulation that works, achieving proper airtightness, and delivering thermal comfort that homeowners can feel.

What you'll get from this episode:

- How energy modelling software actually helps you make smarter decisions (and where to spend your money)

- The honest trade-offs different design choices involve

- Why your builder-architect-engineer triangle can make or break a project

- Where the retrofit market is heading and what it means for your business

- Window performance insights that impact your energy ratings

- Ben also shares his move from Adelaide to Melbourne and what opportunities he's seeing in the Victorian market—plus some candid thoughts on collaboration and where the industry's headed.

Perfect for builders, architects, and anyone who wants homes that perform as well as they look.

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction to Alterations & Additions

00:32 – Welcome to Build Insite Podcast

00:49 – High-Performance Passive Solar Design

01:20 – Exploring Slab Insulation Options

02:25 – Software for Star Ratings

04:25 – Cost & Performance Analysis

06:38 – Future Performance & Resilient Homes

13:45 – Collaboration & Design Decisions

15:59 – Big Move: Adelaide to Melbourne

17:30 – A New Beginning in Brunswick

18:08 – Exploring Retrofit Opportunities

20:14 – The Importance of Window Performance

22:10 – Energy Efficiency Ratings Explained

26:03 – Sponsorship Announcement

28:14 – Future Plans & Personal Connections

29:35 – Rapid Fire Questions

32:17 – Closing Remarks & Contact Information

33:24 – Acknowledgements & Disclaimer

🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

🌐 Explore more at: https://buildinsite.com.au/

📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite