#41 Building Better: Architect–Builder Collaboration with Mitch Emery (Part 1)
Description
In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Dean Backman & Luke Callery sit down with Mitch Emery (Align Architect) to open the hood on how architects and builders can work tighter— from the first client brief through concept, documentation, permits and pre-construction.
What you’ll learn
How Mitch approaches the early brief, concept design and client onboarding
Why engaging the builder early saves time, rework and budget
Documentation standards that reduce RFIs, variations and on-site friction
How to balance design intent with cost (smart value-engineering)
Planning permits, council realities and setting expectations with clients
Practical advice for builders and homeowners to keep projects on track
00:00 – Intro & welcome (Dean & Luke)
02:22 – Meet Mitch Emery (Align Architect)
04:43 – Mitch’s path into architecture
07:05 – Align’s approach: brief to concept
09:27 – Early builder engagement & budgets
11:48 – Documentation that reduces risk
14:10 – Client communication & expectation-setting
16:32 – Planning permits & council realities
18:53 – Design vs cost: value engineering
21:15 – Site constraints & constructability
23:37 – Advice for homeowners & builders
Hosts: Dean Backman & Luke Callery
Guest: Mitch Emery — Align Architect
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