The Blue Couch Podcast By Michael Ross & Jacob Hipwood cover art

The Blue Couch

The Blue Couch

By: Michael Ross & Jacob Hipwood
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About this listen

Brisbane’s building design duo, Jacob and Michael, are here to change the way you approach your building journey. Each week, they share expert insights on how to get your project designed and built right, with the right team involved at the right time. From reputable builders to finance brokers, engineers, interior designers, and more, they explore how working together leads to smoother, smarter builds. And, of course, they’re having a bit of fun along the way. Tune in for real advice, a few laughs, and everything you need to know about building your dream home.




© 2025 The Blue Couch
Episodes
  • The Dream Crusher: Why Town Planners Should Be Your First Call, Not Your Last.

    The Dream Crusher: Why Town Planners Should Be Your First Call, Not Your Last.
    May 8 2025

    #2 Peta Charles from Brisbane Town Planning reveals why understanding development approvals is crucial for homeowners and how seeking expert advice early can save time, money, and emotional distress.

    Check out Brisbane Town Planning here...

    www.brisbanetp.com.au

    Check out Jacob at JMH Designs here...

    jmhdesigns.au

    Check out Michael at MR designs here...

    michaelandruysch.com.au
    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 22 mins
  • Why are We Sitting on the Blue Couch?

    Why are We Sitting on the Blue Couch?
    Apr 15 2025

    #1 Join Michael and Jacob on the Blue Couch as they educate and share insights from decades of combined experience as residential designers. This podcast is all for the mums and dads out there that are looking to renovate or design their dream home and are not sure where to start or what questions to ask their designer. Navigating the design and construction spave can be a daunting task so let's make the process an enjoyable one!

    Check out Jacob at JMH Designs here...

    jmhdesigns.au

    Check out Michael at MR designs here...

    michaelandruysch.com.au
    Show more Show less
    16 mins
  • The Chicken Before the Egg: Where to Start When Designing Your Dream Home.

    The Chicken Before the Egg: Where to Start When Designing Your Dream Home.
    Apr 16 2025

    #2 On this weeks episode Jacob and Michael explore the crucial elements of successful home design and construction, focusing on how proper planning and collaboration prevent costly mistakes and ensure dream homes become reality.

    Check out Jacob at JMH Designs here...

    jmhdesigns.au

    Check out Michael at MR designs here...

    michaelandruysch.com.au

    • 0:45 Design Trends and Style Choices
    • 3:35 Traditional vs Modern Home Costs
    • 6:13 Budget Challenges and Priorities
    • 10:49 Consultant Roles in Design Process
    • 17:59 Timeline from Design to Construction
    • 26:53 Common Mistakes in Building Projects
    • 33:40 Budgeting Realities and Investment Mindset
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    45 mins
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