Join the Inspired Builders Summit in Feb 2026 (limited tickets available):

https://go.bizvideo.com.au/ibs-feb26dpodcast

Ever notice how clients come to you with plans that are way over their budget?

Turns out there's a massive problem in our industry: 80% of plans that get drawn never actually get built.

That disconnect between design and pricing is costing everyone – builders, designers, and clients – time, money, and endless frustration.

In this episode, JP sits down with Ray from Story Lab who's pioneered a radical solution: builder-led design.

Ray's background is unique. He started in his dad's building company at 14, did his apprenticeship, worked as an estimator, then moved into design.

That builder's perspective changed everything about how he approaches design projects.

His approach? Get the builder involved in the FIRST conversation with the client, before any plans get drawn.

Set realistic budget expectations upfront.

Design within those parameters.

The result? 75% of his plans proceed to construction (compared to the industry average of 20%).

In this conversation, Ray reveals:

- Why the traditional design-first approach is fundamentally broken

- The exact process for involving builders from day one- How to have those critical budget conversations early

- Real examples of rescuing projects stuck in the "over-budget" cycle

- Why bespoke new homes are often more cost-effective than renovations

- Fascinating technology (3D scanning with 10 million dimensions) that's improving accuracy- How to build better relationships between builders and designers

Are you a builder? Do you want to be cutting-edge in your marketplace?

Schedule your Story Strategy Session:

https://go.bizvideo.com.au/consult

FREE TRAINING FOR BUILDERS

https://go.bizvideo.com.au/story-training

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Why 80% of Building Plans Never Get Built | Ep 155