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For those that are interested I'm going to post updates of my double storey build to this thread. I've already started other threads about specific things (and will continue to do that) however this one is purely for regular updates. You can also follow our progress on Instagram @building.up.254 and @ProjectPete.diy.
- We started by listing a few must-haves.
- I've shared our final plans.
Would be great to hear what people think along the way and I'm happy to answer any questions you have. This is my second build and I'm also project managing a mate's build - so I'm no expert but I've learned a few things along the way that I'm happy to share 
Word of warning re air con ducting.
Once the ducting had been installed, the bulkhead frame was installed to conceal it all. Luckily we caught things before the bulkhead was finished as you can see from the compressed ducting in the pics below. I knew this wasn't ideal and would affect performance so I immediately got onto the builder and AC company so they could investigate and remedy. Managed to meet the AC guy on site with the ceiling guys and agreed to have a solid junction installed to replace the compressed ducting rather than increasing the size of the bulkhead to better accommodate.
I guess the "warning" part of it is moreso the fact, when I first raised this, the response was "Oh no, it should be fine. The guys know what they're doing." The problem is, "the guys" installing the bulkhead aren't AC specialists. So if they don't know what to look for, they won't realise the detrimental effect of their work. I feel it's common sense, but apparently not. So, as always, don't take "No" for an answer from your builder because they'll always try to avoid rework and cost, but you'll be the one that has to live with the subpar AC you've just paid $17k for.
We're getting so close to the end now. With a new Site Supervisor on board who actually knows what he's doing, we're expecting handover by end Jan.
We're stoked with our square set ceilings to Ground floor (no cornices) to give a cleaner and more luxury look as well as giving our already raised ceilings more height. I thought I have pics but don't so will upload some when i get them. For us, this was a very worthwhile upgrade (cost).
The tiler has been in over the past week and will have it all grouted in the coming days. The tiling is finished (don't have updated pics yet).
Sparky and plumber are due in next to fit everything off then the house will be ready for a clean before handover.
Once we have the keys, my work begins; polished concrete to ground floor (via my subcontractor), engineered floorboards to stairs and top floor (by yours truly), tiled splashback to Kitchen and Laundry (yours truly), floor to ceiling tiling to feature wall in Powder Room (me), pendant lights installed and additional downlights (my subby), aggregate driveway/paths/alfresco/pool area (subby but I'll do a lot of the labour), front landscaping (provided by the estate), concrete pool (me again), sunken firepit (woah, this "me" list is getting long) and a whole bunch of other stuff.
It's going to be hectic. I'm taking 2 weeks off work at first to get through the painting (also me - uh oh), flooring, pool and aggregate so we can at least move in and continue working on it all from there. I expect I'll have more stroies to tell by that point
Sounds like you are going to be very busy @ProjectPete. Looking forward to seeing how it all comes together. It must be such an exciting time for the family.
Jason
Don't mean to SPAM but I (unexpectedly) managed to get into the house yesterday so got some updated pics
Square set
Tiles (pending grout)
For those playing at home - it's so very nearly time to get my keys! 
I had my PCI (Practical Completion Inspection) yesterday and everything went really well. No major defects, just touchups required throughout. There are a few fiddly things I've asked them to fix, but nothing unreasonable. The biggest laugh was the look on our Site Supervisor's face when we told/showed him they'd installed the wrong colour garage doors - this was made worse by the fact they also installed the wrong coloured gutters and downpipes several months ago.
At this point I feel the main thing to share/reiterate is the importance of having an independent inspector throughout your building process. I've done it before, I did it again this time and I'll do it again in future. It pays dividends and can also remove some of the stress for yourself in resolving any issues identified along the way - depending on how good/helpful your inspector is. I highly recommend mine for those of you needing one in Perth.
So all things being equal, we should have our keys on 18/2 then it's time to get stuck into my move-in works plan, starting with painting, flooring and aggregate concrete to front and back of house
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @Ryatthalo. It's amazing that you've joined us and many thanks for jumping into the conversation.
With the move towards open plan living over the past 10 years, kitchens are certainly getting more attention than they once did. They've turned from something that we would once try to hide into the household's hub and meeting place. The heart of the home, if you will. I couldn't agree more with your sentiments, and a prominent kitchen would be my preference.
We look forward to hearing all about the projects you have going on around your own home and garden and encourage you to let us know if you ever need assistance or have something to share. I trust you'll find loads of inspiration within the community as our amazing members contribute their ideas here every day.
Mitchell
Wonderful to follow along with your build @ProjectPete. Thanks for taking the time to share so much detail.
It looks like the latest photos here of your build were still a work in progress. Do you have any updates to share of the finishing touches?
Stevie
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