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 architecture07:05 – Align’s approach: brief to concept09:27 – Early builder engagement & budgets11:48 – Documentation that reduces risk14:10 – Client communication & expectation-setting16:32 – Planning permits & council realities18:53 – Design vs cost: value engineering21:15 – Site constraints & constructability23:37 – Advice for homeowners & builders   Hosts: Dean Backman & Luke CalleryGuest: Mitch Emery — Align Architect 🎧 Listen to the Build Insite Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.📸 Follow us on Instagram: @build.insite🌐 More at buildinsite.com.au