There are a few modern, sustainable and truly healthy alternative building systems that are now available and worth looking into.
These promote the use of natural materials and holistic design methods and have long term durability, energy efficiency and health advantages.
Hemp Masonry or ‘Hempcrete’ is one of the best that we have come across and recommend for a modern, natural house and I have written more about the system here.
Amanda has undertaken specialist hemp design and construction training with The Australian Hemp Masonry Company and designed the Springbrook Hemp House.
HEMP MASONRY CONSTRUCTION
In Australia, this is relatively new yet has been used overseas in UK, France, Poland and Austria. Its main benefits are:
- Excellent thermal performance (high R-values)
- Easy, light and fast to work with
- Vermin proof (including termites)
- Fire proof
- Low embodied energy
- Excellent carbon footprint (sequests (stores) 4.3 tonnes of carbon)
- Rot resistant (prevents mould)
- Healthy, Breathable walls
- Recyclable + Zero Waste
- High acoustic performance
- Air tight system (no thermal bridging)
- Walls can be rendered with Lime & Clay or left natural (maintaining breathable wall system)
- Can be tinted with oxides or painted after with natural ‘no-VOC’ paints
- Energy savings due to high performance of building system
- Affordable (cost equivalent to brick veneer system)
We can design natural and healthy Hemp Houses and would love to help you with your next home. Please contact us for more information.
Further examples and resources on hemp buildings around the world can be viewed here:
The Australian Hemp Masonry Company
Constructing a Hemp House Video– Rachel Bevan & Tom Wooley, UK
The Triangle Social Housing Project, Swindon (+ Kevin McCloud- Grand Designs)
‘Miasa Mura’, Japan (300 year old Hemp House)
Adnams Brewery, UK
Science Museum, London
Marks & Spencer, London
Main Image: Industrial Hemp Association NSW