Modern Build on a Budget

Steve joins Matt live in the ROCKWOOL studio to explore cost-effective strategies for building high-performance homes. They discuss common misconceptions about homebuilding costs, particularly the misleading reliance on "cost per square foot." Additionally, they emphasize prioritizing quality over size, suggesting that a well-built smaller home can provide better long-term value.

Using Steve’s Multigenerational Home on a Budget project as an example, they discuss key decisions include using UPVC triple-glazed windows, which improve insulation and reduce HVAC costs, and Bosch HVAC systems to provide efficient heating and cooling. The house also uses Huber’s ZIP R9 insulation for air-tightness, eliminating the need for costly closed-cell foam. The design keeps materials simple yet durable, opting for more affordable features like modest kitchen cabinets and a basic ERV system while maintaining good indoor air quality.

Steve highlights the cultural differences in homebuilding, particularly in Europe, where permanent features like windows are prioritized over easily replaceable items like countertops. Matt & Steve’s discussion can serve as a guide for those looking to build smarter, energy-efficient homes on a budget without sacrificing long-term performance.

Resources:

• UnBuild It Podcast: https://buildshownetwork.com/podcast/unbuildit-podcast
• “Not So Big House” by Sarah Susanka
• Energy Vanguard: https://www.energyvanguard.com/

Find Steve on the Web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/stevebaczek
• Instagram: @stevenbaczekarchitect
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@stevenbaczekarchitect9431
• Website: https://stevenbaczekarchitect.com/info/

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• TikTok: @thebuildshow
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
• Website: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/

Join us at Build Show LIVE this November 7-9 in Austin, TX. Click here to register now!

Save the Date for Build Show LIVE 2025 in Dallas, TX: October 16-18, 2025!

Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.