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How to Unite Architects & Builders // Mindful Builder Podcast
"Architects design things we can't actually build."
>> CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE FULL EPISODE <<
It’s the age-old jab builders throw at architects, but I’m on a mission to prove the divide doesn't have to exist. I recently sat down to discuss how we can bridge the gap between "the poetic" and "the practical" in the building industry.
As a carpenter’s son, I’ve always had a foot in both worlds. I understand the builder’s frustration with unbuildable plans just as much as I value the architect’s need for design integrity. In this episode, I dive deep into my 'Align Build Collaboration' method—a strategy I developed to bring builders to the table from day one and eliminate those costly "surprises" on-site.
My Key Takeaways:
The Power of Early Involvement: Why I believe having a builder in the room during the design phase saves everyone time, money, and headaches.
Tender vs. Negotiated Contracts: My thoughts on weighing the traditional competitive bid against a more collaborative approach.
Sustainable by Design: How I approach creating climate-adapted, energy-efficient homes without sacrificing a shred of aesthetic beauty.
Collaborative Success: How I navigate the tension between professional contracts and the human relationships required to actually get a house built.
My work across residential and heritage projects has shown me that when we stop pointing fingers and start talking early, we don't just build better—we build smarter.
Exceptional use of Tasmanian Timber - The We Ponder Home
We’re thrilled to share that our team at SAXON HALL architecture, in collaboration with ALIGN architecture, has been recognised for our Hobart home design! We recently won an award for the exceptional use of Tasmanian Timber for the external cladding of the We Ponder Home. This project was a true team effort, bringing together two Hobart architecture firms to create something special.
As residential architects Hobart, we wanted to create a design that felt both fresh and rooted in the local landscape. The home's exterior features rough-sawn Tasmanian Oak, which we chose to pay homage to the old apple and shearing sheds you see all over the state. We inverted the traditional board and batten method to give it a modern look with deep shadows, and it also works perfectly with Tasmania's weather. It's great to see a sustainable architect approach get this kind of recognition.
This project is a perfect example of what a dedicated team of Tasmanian architects can achieve. It's a testament to the fact that thoughtful architectural design can create a beautiful and functional space while being respectful of the environment. If you're looking for a Hobart architect for your next project, remember that we specialise in this type of work. We believe that a custom home design should not only look amazing but also feel right for the place it's in.
Photo: Tari Peterson
“From the forest to finished products, Tasmania’s forest and timber industries came together on Friday night (5 September), to celebrate the outstanding achievements of individuals and organisations at the 2025 Tasmanian Timber Awards.
Hosted by the Tasmanian Forests and Forest Products Network (TFFPN), the biennial event drew 250 guests to the Tailrace Centre in Launceston to recognise excellence across the sector, from harvesting and forest management to innovation, sustainability, design, safety and tree farming.
Deputy Premier, the Hon Guy Barnett, set the tone for the evening, championing the industry with his message that ‘wood is good – sustainable, recyclable, and the ultimate renewable.’
TFFPN Board Director, Dr Louise Wallis, said the Awards were a proud moment for the industry. “ - read more HERE
Your Huon Valley Dream Home
Ever dreamt of a high-performance home right here in the beautiful Huon Valley? What if I told you that dream might be closer than you think?
Picture this: you've snagged the perfect piece of land, and it comes with a high-performance home practically ready for you to start construction. All the hard work's been done! The Development Application is Approved, the Construction Documentation is Completed, and even the Interior Design is all sorted.
And here's the best bit: no more guessing about how much it'll cost. This project has a fixed-price contract estimate all set to go from in2 Constructions, an award-winning builder right here in Tasmania.
The home itself is designed by Saxon Hall, facilitated by Align Architecture & Interiors, and brought it to life, using materials inspired by those cool old farm buildings you see around the area. It's a low-maintenance healthy home built with top-notch performance in mind.
Find out more information >> HERE <<
Hale Farm at Completion
With just the landscaping left, we were thrilled to hand over the Hale Farm project to our client this month! Matt Sansom has already started capturing photos as the Tasmanian winter sets in, so keep an eye out for more content from this exciting project.
Photos: Matt Sansom
"The design process was fantastic, and we're absolutely thrilled with the outcome! The size is perfect for us – the kitchen, living, and dining area is just right, offering plenty of space without losing that cozy feel.
We love the kitchen's ample storage, and the island bench divider is brilliant; it truly expands the living and dining area while discreetly hiding dishes. The thoughtful design of the walkway, with its lower ceiling leading into the higher lounge room, is exactly what I envisioned. Saxon, you did a wonderful job with the light timber – its quality is superb!
It's amazing how comfortable the house stays. I planned a fire the first night but didn't even need it because the temperature was so agreeable. And when I did open the windows for a cross breeze, the house cooled down easily. The fire itself was wonderful!
The initial wind and sun plots were helpful, but living here, we've really noticed how important the night temperatures are, especially with the north winds influencing the cold. Even with a whirling wind outside, sitting with a glass of wine, I couldn't be happier. We really like it!" - Hale Farm Client
Project Team:
Align Architecture & Interiors
SAXON HALL architecture
We Ponder Interiors & Lighting
1 Emily Road West Moonah
Purchase land in Hobart with a completed Concept Design & Development Application approved
“Occupying a fantastic position with picturesque water views, sits this vacant allotment high above West Moonah. Create your ideal home in a family friendly location, whilst sitting only minutes from schools, parks, and transport.
This parcel of land offers relaxing vistas across neighbouring suburbs and beyond, whilst also having the ability to store items in the lock up space.
Hobart's CBD and the Moonah shopping strip is just minutes away by car, with restaurants, cafes, shops, and major supermarkets, along with the superb amenities of nearby New Town and Lenah Valley.
Ideally situated, this impressive allotment will provide the perfect canvas to build a spacious home (STCA) filled with contemporary comfort.
Zoning: General Residential Council Rates: $500 pa approx”
1 Emily Road, West Moonah: Build Your Dream Home!
This exceptional opportunity comes with fully approved plans for a breathtaking 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence designed by SAXON HALL architecture
Expansive open-plan kitchen, living, and dining flowing seamlessly to private patios.A cleverly designed central walk-in pantry/laundry for ultimate convenience. Luxurious master suite with ensuite bathroom. Sunken lounge for cozy relaxation. Oversized garage/workshop with impressive ceiling height.
follow / sonic architecture / live
If you have been following SAXON HALL architecture for a little while you would have seen that my architecture is not all about structure within our built environment.
“...there is something about the sound of follow that is glacial and celestial: like the night skies above their hometown of Hobart with a panoply of glittering stars at the often frozen southern edge of the world. Their new album 'Old Haunts' is quite simply put magnificent. It is a collection of instrumentals that carve out a trail of jangling guitars and synths over relentless rhythms like a brilliant array of constellations and shooting stars.”
follow is an atmospheric and immersive soundscape with lush guitar textures and broad dynamic shifts & towards the end of the year we are taking follow live to stage at the 2024/2025 Great Escape NYE Festival
You can hit the link HERE to sign up for presale access.
Presale goes live at 8:00AM AEST on Tuesday, 10th of September!
GA on sale at 8:00AM AEST on Friday, 13th of September.
Photo: Michael Rankine
Great Escape is held at Redbanks Nugent, in the south of lutruwita / Tasmania. This is Palawa / Tasmanian Aboriginal land.
All other follow related links HERE
Saxon Hall Architecture — Dwell Magazine
“Saxon Hall, founder of the namesake architecture firm, was first introduced to the world of prefabricated buildings in 2015 while working on modular dwellings for a construction company in Tasmania, Australia, where he’s based. The experience, coupled with his observation of the region’s dearth of transportable, low maintenance homes capable of performing in Tasmania's intense range of temperatures, eventually led him to design his first prefabricated project. Dubbed the Standup Cabin, the two module building holds the shared dining, bathing, and cooking facilities for a coastal campsite on the Tasman Peninsula.” - Text by Grace Bernard
The We Ponder Home - Green Magazine
“With the We Ponder House, we took an abstract approach to the traditional board and batten method. Typically, in an old ag shed, a wider board is fixed to the wall frame with a narrow covering board, but with this project, we inverted the concept and used smaller battens fixed to the frame and wider boards sitting on top and placed the boards vertically.”
“Not only do you get a deep and strong shadow line from applying the boards in this way but it also allows for air ventilation between the boards which works with Tasmania’s cool and damp weather, especially in the winter season,” says Hall.
Read the full Green Magazine Article HERE
“Creating a handful of beautifully considered and finely constructed projects across the state of Tasmania, emerging architect Saxon Hall has been busy honing his craft in Tasmanian architecture and home design for the last decade. Prior to establishing his own part-time practice, Saxon Hall Architecture, Hall previously worked at one of Hobart’s leading architecture studios, Morrison & Breytenbach Architects, where his inspiration to explore the limits and applications of Tasmanian Oak was ignited. Collaborating with a breadth of designers and tradespeople on his latest project, We Ponder House, Hall’s passion for using products low in embodied energy called for the use of Tasmanian Oak. Sustainability was also top of mind. As a nod to the state’s extensive use of the prized local timber in agriculture sheds that spot the scenic landscape, Tasmanian Oak was used for the home’s exterior but done with a modern and abstract twist, reflecting the principles of sustainable home design Tasmania.”
Saxon Hall Architecture — Winner of the 2024 Tasmanian People's Choice
The votes have been tallied and the results are in. The winner of the 2024 Tasmanian Architecture Awards People’s Choice is The We Ponder Home by align architecture + interiors with SAXON HALL architecture. Congratulations!
A special mention goes to Skellig House by Crump Architects and James Street by Taylor and Hinds Architects who also received many votes.
“The We Ponder Home – a visually stunning architectural project that seamlessly blends the rustic charm of Tasmania’s countryside with the timeless elegance of mid-century design. As a prime example of Tasmanian architecture, this home features Tasmanian ceramic wall lights that have been handcrafted to perfection, adding a touch of sophistication to every room.
The living room, featuring an open-plan layout and a sunken lounge, is a testament to the homeowners’ passion for mid-century architecture. The rough-sawn Tasmanian Oak walls lend a natural and earthy feel to the interiors, while the strategically placed windows offer breathtaking views of the rolling hills, highlighting the Tasmanian coastal home environment.
The We Ponder Home is a space that inspires creativity and promotes a deep connection with nature. With its picture-perfect views of a large eucalyptus tree and an ambience that feels like an art gallery, this architectural masterpiece is a dream come true for anyone who appreciates timeless elegance and natural beauty in their Tasmanian home design.”
Read more HERE
Traditional Land Owners: The Paredarerme People
Year: 2024
Chapter: Tasmania
Category: Residential Architecture – Houses (New), Sustainable Architecture
Photographer: Tari Peterson
Retreat: Inspired Homes and Ways of Living by Lucy Glade-Wright
The We Ponder Home has been featured in Retreat: Inspired Homes and Ways of Living by Lucy Glade-Wright from Hunting for George, among a great collection of projects such as Coopsworth by FMD Architects, CNTNR by Dion Agius and a great collection of other projects World Wide. See the details below on how to order.
Cover Photography: @jorritphoto courtesy of @casparschols
“From the bush to the beach and mountain ranges in between, Retreat: Inspired Homes and Ways of Living showcases 24 unique homes far from the city limits. No longer reserved for travellers and retirees, the great escape is a dream realised by many busy professionals who crave more space and a slower pace while maintaining their careers.
Aside from the uniqueness of the homes, including a Balinese villa, a ski ranch in the Sonoran Desert and a converted bus called Gloria, Retreat also delves into how the owners’ lifestyles have changed.
What compels someone to pursue a tree-change is at the heart of this book and design expert Lucy Glade-Wright, who swapped her city life for a cabin in an idyllic Victorian coastal town, is the perfect guide.
Featuring Q&As with the homeowners, Lucy’s inspirational styling ideas that can be replicated at home, and stunning photography, Retreat proves greener pastures take various forms and that creating a happier balance might be closer than you think.”
Photography: Tari Peterson
Cover Photography: @jorritphoto courtesy of @casparschols
Cover Photography:
Jorrit ‘t Hoen courtesy of Cabin-Anna
We Ponder Home Architecture:
Align architecture & interiors with SAXON HALL architecture
Interiors:
We Ponder Interiors
Photographer:
Tari Peterson
The We Ponder Home - Peoples Choice Award - Australian Institute of Architects
“The We Ponder Home – a visually stunning architectural project that seamlessly blends the rustic charm of Tasmania’s countryside with the timeless elegance of mid-century design. The standout feature of this home is the Tasmanian ceramic wall lights that have been handcrafted to perfection, adding a touch of sophistication to every room.
The living room, featuring an open-plan layout and a sunken lounge, is a testament to the homeowners’ passion for mid-century architecture. The rough-sawn Tasmanian Oak walls lend a natural and earthy feel to the interiors, while the strategically placed windows offer breathtaking views of the rolling hills.
The We Ponder Home is a space that inspires creativity and promotes a deep connection with nature. With its picture-perfect views of a large eucalyptus tree and an ambiance that feels like an art gallery, this architectural masterpiece is a dream come true for anyone who appreciates timeless elegance and natural beauty.”
A Transportable Off-Grid Dwelling On A Breathtaking Tasman Peninsula Site
“The communal facilities at a classic Australian camping ground are usually contained to an uninspiring and strictly utilitarian concrete block.”
Regal Court Visuals
Green Island Point Pavilion
Nestled at the core of Green Island Point, the pavilion stands as a testament to community resilience and a symbol of gathering. Embraced by the robust embrace of rough-sawn Tasmanian oak, the cladding envelops the shelter, shielding it from the westerly winds emanating from the Scamander River
The choice of dark charcoal for the pavilion's structure creates a striking contrast against the gentle, natural hues of Tasmanian Oak. This visual dialogue mirrors the stark narrative of the region's history, particularly the unforgiving bushfires that swept through the community in 2006.
The pavilion, with its architectural duality, becomes not only a physical sanctuary but also a poignant reminder of the community's endurance. As the resilient Tasmanian Oak intertwines with the charcoal structure, it symbolizes the community's ability to weather storms, both natural and historical, emerging stronger and more united than ever at the heart of Green Island Point.
Read more on Green Island Point Below
Nestled in the embrace of Mother Nature's protective beauty, Scamander emerges as an exquisite haven, steeped in ancient stories and unique wilderness – a quintessential Tasmanian gem. Here, the design of this sanctuary pays homage to the landscape, the spirit of the place, and the ever-changing climate, reflecting Green Island Point's authentic vision for prestigious living seamlessly intertwined with nature.
This waterfront oasis extends an invitation to indulge in exclusive amenities, creating a social hub for residents to connect and celebrate milestones. From tennis courts to a community center and a BBQ pavilion, the enclave fosters a sense of community where shared experiences thrive – a true testament to the Tasmanian ethos.
Adding to the allure of Scamander is the presence of pro surfer Dion 'Baby' Agius, whose daring surfing style and influential status have catapulted this exclusive Tasmanian locale onto the global stage. The waves beckon, the forest trails await exploration, and Tasmania's world-class beaches offer an oceanic haven for those seeking the extraordinary – a paradise within the Top 10 Tasmania destinations.
Dive into the rich tapestry of Scamander living – ride the waves, trek through lush forests, relish the freshest seafood, or simply bask in the glory of the ocean's embrace. Whatever your vision for a fulfilling life entails, you'll uncover it within the prestigious enclave of Scamander, ranking high among the Top 10 Tasmania experiences.
Amidst this scenic haven, one can find solace and vibrant energy at Swims East Coast Coffee on 1 Steel St, Scamander. More than just a coffee stop, this café, housed in a stylized shipping container overlooking the beach, offers a cool ambiance and has earned its place among Tasmania's best – a must-visit in the Top 10 Tasmania coffee spots. Adding to its charm, it's a pet-friendly spot, allowing you to enjoy your brew in the company of your four-legged friend.
Scamander, with its perfect blend of natural allure and contemporary amenities, beckons those in search of a life fully realized in the lap of Tasmania's coastal splendor – an epitome of the Top 10 Tasmania destinations that capture the essence of this picturesque island state.
https://www.greenislandpoint.com.au/
We Ponder House - Tasmanian Timber Interview
“Creating a handful of beautifully considered and finely constructed projects across the state of Tasmania, emerging architect Saxon Hall has been busy honing his craft in architecture and design for the last decade. Prior to establishing his own part-time practice Saxon Hall Architecture, Hall previously worked at one of Hobart’s leading architecture studios Morrison & Breytenbach Architects, where his inspiration to explore the limits and applications of Tasmanian Oak was ignited. Collaborating with a breadth of designers and tradespeople on his latest project, We Ponder House, Hall’s passion for using products low in embodied energy called for the use of Tasmanian Oak. Sustainability was also top of mind. As a nod to the state’s extensive use of the prized local timber in agriculture sheds that spot the scenic landscape – Tasmanian Oak was used for the home’s exterior but done with a modern and abstract twist.” - tasmaniantimber.com.au, accessed 20/11/23
“Principal and certified Passive House architect Michael Loubser of Align Architecture has been honing his knowledge and skill set in passive solar design for a number of years, focusing on Passivhaus and healthy building materials. He emphasises that the incorporation of both passive solar design and Passivhaus principles into the We Ponder home was essential to maximising the user’s comfort, particularly during colder months.” - tasmaniantimber.com.au, accessed 20/11/23
Read the full interview …… HERE
Architect/Designer: SAXON HALL architecture with Align Architecture
Interior Design: We Ponder
Client: Private
Location: Sorell, Tasmania
Date Completed: 2022
Home location picked by vibe not hearsay
The We Ponder clients chatting to realestate dot com about the strategies they used to keep their project within 10% of their budget amongst other things Tasmania…
“Designing a house amid rising, record-high construction prices was like “navigating a maze”.
“We stuck to the plan of what I advocate to my clients: a pragmatic approach that prevents overspending on design and applications, only to face exorbitant construction quotes later”
Checkout the remainder of the article HERE
Architecture: @align.architecture.au with @saxonhallarchitecture Interiors: @weponder_ Photographer: @tari.c.peterson
Photo: Ali Davis
Nurturing Architectural Talent: My Path as a Mentor in Tasmania's Architectural Landscape
Introduction
In the dynamic realm of architecture, mentorship serves as a beacon guiding emerging talents towards success. Recognizing this crucial role, the Australian Institute of Architects has established the National Mentoring Program, a platform designed to facilitate connections between experienced architects and the next generation. While my journey as a mentor in this program is set to begin, I am thrilled to share my anticipation and aspirations, particularly in the context of Tasmania's architectural community.
I’m keen to be joining the Australian Institute of Architects National Mentorship Program. I’ll be passing on my knowledge surrounding career progression, work-life balance, and how to balance building your portfolio as an emerging architect while still gaining valuable experience at established firms. This opportunity to contribute to the growth of future architects aligns seamlessly with my passion for nurturing creative minds and fostering the development of well-rounded professionals. Together, we will shape the architectural landscape, ensuring a vibrant and innovative future for the industry.
Photo: Jesse Bonde
Architectural Landscape in Tasmania: A Unique Canvas
Tasmania's architectural landscape is as unique and diverse as the island itself. From the vibrant city of Hobart to the picturesque town of Launceston, the demand for innovative architectural design in residential and commercial spaces is on the rise. The allure of architectural services in specific cities like Hobart is underscored by the need for sustainable, modern, and heritage-driven designs. As a prospective mentor, I'm eager to contribute to this landscape by sharing insights that align with the architectural ethos of Tasmania.
Mentoring Through the Lens of Tasmania
Participating in the National Mentoring Program facilitated by the Australian Institute of Architects and Mentorloop holds the promise of transcending geographical constraints. This is particularly valuable in Tasmania, where architectural talents might be scattered across the island. Whether it's a Tasmanian architect seeking architectural consultation in Launceston or a residential architect in Hobart seeking guidance, the digital interface of Mentorloop ensures seamless interactions irrespective of distance.
Photo: Ron Verdouw
Sculpting Architectural Futures: Matching Through Mentorloop
Mentorloop's specialized matching software holds the key to forming effective mentor-mentee partnerships. It's a tool that resonates with the unique needs of Tasmania's architectural community. Imagine a landscape architect in Tasmania being paired with a mentor skilled in sustainable architectural design. This curated approach fosters connections that tap into the essence of Tasmania's architectural identity, be it residential, commercial, or heritage-focused.
Sustainability and Innovation: Tasmania's Architectural Identity
Tasmania's natural beauty and commitment to sustainability make it an ideal setting for architects who prioritize innovative and eco-conscious designs. As a mentor, I am excited to explore sustainable architectural approaches with mentees who share a vision for creating structures that seamlessly blend with Tasmania's environment. Whether it's modern architectural concepts or the preservation of heritage through design, the journey is bound to be enriched by Tasmania's unique context.
Photo: Joe Grey
Embracing Tasmania's Architectural Diversity
From architectural drafting in Tasmania to landscape architecture, the diversity of skills and interests within the state's architectural community is truly remarkable. As a mentor, I look forward to engaging with emerging talents pursuing various paths, be it residential, commercial, or interior design. Together, we can contribute to the architectural portfolio of Tasmania by combining creative thought and practical skill.
Conclusion
As I prepare to embark on my role as a mentor in the Australian Institute of Architects' National Mentoring Program, I am energized by the prospect of contributing to Tasmania's architectural fabric. Through Mentorloop's innovative platform, I anticipate forming connections that resonate with Tasmania's architectural diversity – from sustainable design to heritage preservation. By guiding emerging architects in Tasmania, we can collectively shape the future of architectural practice on this captivating island.
You can find more information on the Australian Institute of Architects Mentor Program HERE
Photo: Ali Davis
The We Ponder Home - The Design Files - A Tonal Tasmanian Home Inspired By Mid-Century Design
The We Ponder Home has been featured over at The Design Files with a great story written by Christina Karras
“Working in collaboration with Align and Saxon Hall Architecture, the couple’s brief for their new home was to build a simple, unassuming three-bedroom, two-bathroom home – but each room had to have a ‘picture perfect’ outlook view of their serene one-hectare property, framed around a large oak tree.
Rose also looked to the mid-century era for inspiration, designing the open-plan living room’s sunken lounge — which was another of the couple’s few ‘non-negotiables’! Custom-made boucle cushions in a burnt orange colour help bring this retro vibe to life.” - Christina Karras // The Design Files
read more on the Tonal Tasmanian Home over at the Design Files HERE
Architecture: align with SAXON HALL architecture, Interiors: We Ponder, Photography: Tari Peterson
House of the Week
“Architecturally designed and built in 2017 this home has been meticulously and expertly pieced together using a beautiful mix of materials that results in a modern masterpiece. The open style kitchen, dining and living area feature sliding glass doors that optimize the picturesque views of the large rear yard and gum trees beyond, while melding together the inside and the outside livings spaces. These have also been strategically placed to take advantage of natural heat from the sun during the winter months, helping keep electricity costs down. The lounge room is slightly sunken and has a beautiful cosy feel, with a wood heater, exposed brick, a reverse cycle A/C and a heat transfer kit, to pump warm air into the bedrooms.”
Read more of the Berne Court House article HERE