Babe! Lets build a house

Why This Book Exists

This isn't the book I chose to write. It's the book my clients needed to read.

For too long, architects and architectural designers have been great at explaining what we do — but terrible at explaining what that means for you. This book flips that. It's written for the homeowner, not the industry.

It started as a marketing exercise. Halfway through, I realised it was something bigger. Building or renovating a home is one of the largest financial investments most of us will make in our lifetime, yet many people are expected to make decisions without fully understanding how the system works. This book breaks that cycle. It walks you through the entire journey in plain language — from early design thinking and consultant roles through to costs, contracts, construction, completion and certification — and what building better actually means in practice.

Because the home you build today isn't just yours. It's a future home for people you may never meet. Building better, with a good process, is how we plant trees whose shade we share with generations to come.

What's Inside

• Where to start — and how your decision-making style shapes your first steps

• Understanding your site and what it means for your design

• How to choose the right architect, designer, builder, engineer and consultants

• What to bring to your first meeting — and what questions to ask

• The full architectural process from consultation through to completion

• Passive House and Homestar explained in plain language — and how to make informed choices around both

• Types of fees, contracts, guarantees, insurances and warranties

• The difference between your build budget and your project budget

• Designing for performance, not just looks

• What adds real value to your home for resale

• Financing your build — loan and finance options explained

• What to expect on site, at sign-off, and after you move in

About the Author

Sharon Robinson is an Architectural Designer based in Hamilton, New Zealand, and the founder of Smart Living Spaces — an architectural practice with people and planet in mind. Sharon has spent her career making healthy, comfortable, high-performing homes accessible to everyday New Zealanders.

"Architecture is the process of social change. Our built environment shapes our experience and supports our opportunities. We all deserve a healthy, affordable place to call home."

Be the First to Get It

Babe, Let's Build a House is written for people who want to approach architectural design with clarity, confidence, and a real understanding of the process — not guesswork. Joining the early-bird pre-order list gives you first access to the book, but more importantly, it empowers you to ask better questions, make informed decisions, and move through the process with far less stress and far more control.

Simply register your details below and I'll email you the moment the book is ready to order. I'd love to help you navigate your new home journey with confidence.