Building a high value home means managing far more people than you expect.

On a residential project, dozens of professionals are involved, each with a specific role, responsibility, and risk attached. We break down who does what, who works for whom, and where confusion can lead to costly mistakes.

We explain the key roles across the full build team, including architects, project managers, quantity surveyors, engineers, contractors, inspectors, and regulators. We also unpack common misconceptions around cost control, client protection, and why no single person can manage everything alone.

If you want clarity on your team before committing serious money to your build, this episode is for you.

“Coordination is where projects succeed or fail.” - Tina Patel

You’ll hear about:

• Who the client really is
• What a project manager actually does
• Architect versus lead designer
• Why planning consultants matter
• Listed buildings and heritage consultants
• Contract administrator versus employer’s agent
• Quantity surveyor versus cost consultant
• Why engineers can save you money
• MEP and services explained
• Who controls quality on site
• Planning versus building control
• Who really protects your risk

Connect with us:

Tima Patel - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinapatel/

Bart Kolosowski - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bartkolosowski/

Produced by Between Tracks - https://www.betweentracks.com/

Home design is about more than drawings.

It is about decisions that shape how you live for decades.

In this episode, we break down what the architectural design process really looks like on a private home project.

We walk through how a design brief is developed, why it cannot be rushed, and how understanding family life, future needs, and everyday habits directly influences layout, flow, and long-term success. From early discovery sessions to sketch layouts, planning strategy, and detailed coordination, we explain what actually happens behind the scenes.

We also explore how specialist designers fit into the process, where costs and risks often emerge, and why design continues evolving well into construction. From kitchens and lighting to staircases, glazing, and landscaping, we explain where homeowners often underestimate the impact of design decisions.

If you want a home that works not just today, but five, ten, and fifteen years from now, listen to explore the entire design journey.

“Design is about future life, not today’s layout.” - Tina Patel

You’ll hear about:

• Developing the design brief properly
• Why family input really matters
• How long early design takes
• Translating lifestyle into layout
• Common brief mistakes homeowners make
• Planning constraints explained simply
• Why multiple layout options matter
• When specialists join the design
• How design evolves on site
• Design only versus design and build
• Realistic project timelines
• Planning for future family needs

Connect with us:

Tima Patel - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinapatel/

Bart Kolosowski - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bartkolosowski/

Produced by Between Tracks - https://www.betweentracks.com/

Most people think a home project starts with an architect or a builder.

In reality, the most important work happens long before that conversation ever begins.

In this episode, we explore what homeowners really need to think about before engaging any professionals. From understanding what’s driving the project in the first place, to aligning as a family on goals, budgets and timelines, we unpack the conversations that can make or break a successful build.

We talk openly about the realities of budgets, timescales, and decision-making, why so many projects go off track before they even start, and how a clear brief can save you stress, time and money. Drawing on real client experiences, we explain why clarity, communication and honesty at the very beginning are essential for a smooth journey.

If you’re considering a renovation or new build, this episode will help you lay the right foundations before a single drawing is produced.

“A successful project starts with clarity, not construction.” Bart Kolosowski

You’ll hear about:

• What triggers people to start a home project
• Why most projects fail before they begin
• The importance of agreeing a brief as a family
• Why budget clarity matters more than design early on
• How unrealistic timelines cause major problems
• The true cost of building beyond construction
• Why professional fees catch people out
• The danger of managing a project yourself
• How to approach decision making early
• Why clarity saves money, stress and time

Connect with us:

Tima Patel - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinapatel/

Bart Kolosowski - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bartkolosowski/

Produced by Between Tracks - https://www.betweentracks.com/