Architecture Episodes

Swifts are among the most remarkable birds on Earth — they sleep on the wing, migrate thousands of miles, and return each year to nest in the same tiny holes in our buildings. But as we insulate, repoint, and renovate, those nesting sites are vanishing — and so are the birds. This week, Jeffrey speaks with Hannah Bourne-Taylor — author, activist, and the powerhouse behind the campaign to mandate “swift bricks” in all new UK homes. From raising wild birds in Ghana to walking naked through West...

In this episode of the Building Sustainability Podcast, we are joined by Chloe Donovan, founder of Natural Building Systems. She discuss the exciting potential of hemp and other bio-based materials in construction, how modular systems can reduce waste and speed up building, and the complexities of bringing sustainable solutions to market. Topics covered: Chloe’s journey from the voluntary sector to sustainable construction The origins of Natural Building Systems and its mission Why ...

In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Sigi Koko, founder of Down to Earth Design, to explore the world of natural renovations. Sigi shares her journey of blending sustainability and health into home retrofits, highlighting the transformative power of materials like clay and hemp in creating spaces that feel alive, healthy, and grounded. We dive into: The challenges and creativity sparked by constraints in renovation projects. Why natural materials like clay plaster and he...

In this episode of the Building Sustainability Podcast, Sigi Koko of Down to Earth Design shares her deeply personal journey of transforming a historic farmhouse into a fully natural, sustainable home. From retrofitting with hempcrete to creating stunning clay archways, Sigi discusses the challenges, surprises, and joys of renovating a home with natural materials. We explore: The differences between renovation and retrofit—and why Sigi sees her project as the ultimate retrofit. Creativ...

The second part of my conversation with Janna. In this episode we get into the nitty gritty of airtightness, and how we've come to appreciate its need, while not being 100% happy about the materials needed to achieve it. We talk about the importance of fresh air in your building, how C02 will make us unhealthy and sluggish, plus the best way to get the fresh air without losing all your heat. Grain Architecture - https://www.grainarchitecture.co.uk/ Architype - https://www.architype.co.uk/ Llama...

In this episode of the Building Sustainability podcast, I am excited to welcome back architect Janna Laan Lomas, who shares her journey of building a sustainable home in Herefordshire alongside her partner, Seb, and her parents. We discuss the unique multi-generational aspect of their project, the thoughtful design considerations that have shaped their vision, and the innovative construction methods they are using, such as screw pile foundations and timber frames filled with cellulose insulation...

Caroline Nicolay discusses natural building and archaeology. We explore ancient techniques like mineral pigments and casein paints, debunking stereotypes of primitive living. Caroline shares her experiential archaeology journey, transitioning from historical food research to pigments in prehistory. We delve into ancient paint usage, lime in construction and making paint from natural materials like clay and minerals. The conversation touches on tempera paint, historical recipes using dairy produ...

Paloma Gormley continues our conversation, focusing on the use of clay as a sustainable alternative to lime and cement. We explore the versatility of clay as a material and its use in various forms, such as unfired clay blocks and light earth constructions. We also delve into the challenges and potential solutions of using non-standard construction timber, such as coppice timbers. Emphasising the need for collaboration between construction and agriculture, and the importance of social and land ...

Architect, Paloma Gormley from Material Cultures joins me to discus the importance of regenerative materials in building design. The conversation explores plant-based materials like hemp and reed, their uses in construction, and their positive impact on wetlands. Paloma also highlights the need for improved working conditions, diversity, and inclusivity in the construction industry We discuss the challenges and opportunities of introducing alternative materials and rethinking construction educa...

In this episode, Vanessa explores the fascinating world of biophilic design and its potential impact on sustainable and ethical practices. We delve into the use of clay, earth materials, and mushroom mycelium as tactile and eco-friendly alternatives. The episode also touches upon the challenges of promoting green alternatives in mainstream industries and the potential positive effects of biophilic design on employee ethics and productivity. Lastly, Vanessa highlights the growing popularity of b...

In this episode, guest Vanessa Champion discusses biophilia and biophilic design, emphasizing the importance of nature connection and its benefits for well-being and the environment. We explore underappreciated biophilic patterns, healthcare benefits, materials, and so much more. Overall, the focus is on improving the built environment for people and the planet through biophilic design. Episode links https://journalofbiophilicdesign.com/ BOOK - Designing buildings for people - https://tinyurl...

From Robotic Arms to Cork Bricks

Architectural Character and the Power of Plant Based Materials

So much more than a show park

Circular Economy for Sustainable Construction

Are you ready to embark on a journey that blends architectural innovation with environmental sustainability? Come along as I engage in a vibrant discussion with the gifted duo, Jo Bolton and Matt Whitaker of Abundant Earth. We delve into the captivating process of constructing a straw bale house that exists in harmony with its natural surroundings. It's not just a house, but a tribute to human ingenuity and a testament to the beauty of nature. The tale doesn't stop at the mere structure; it's t...

This is the second part of my conversation with Kirsty Cassels. In this episode, we hear about Kirsty's experience as a joiner in the TV industry, her work promoting workwear for women, certifying natural products and the Prince's Foundation... as well as other side meanderings. Episode links: Workwear for women - https://www.instagram.com/workwear_for_women/ Kirsty's building work - https://www.instagram.com/building_cassels/ Kirsty's design work - https://www.instagram.com/creative_cassels/ ...

The first of 2 episodes with designer and builder Kirsty Cassels. Pt2 will follow next week when I am back in the country. Follow Kirsty's work on instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/building_cassels/ https://www.instagram.com/creative_cassels/ Leave a review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/building-sustainability-podcast/id1459369615 Support the podcast: https://www.patreon.com/buildingsustainability Episode links: Hartwyn - https://hartwyn.co.uk/ Alex Sparrow (UK Hempcrete) -...

Shannon Berry trained as an architect but I met her as a pole lathe bowl turner. You might know her from BBC's Make It at Market. https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001gq6s https://www.shannonberrynature.co.uk/ Episode links Illustration from Amy Charles' Patreon feedback - https://cricketmedia.com/blog/reading/spotlight-on-trina-schart-hyman/ Patreon for podcast support - https://www.patreon.com/buildingsustainability Matty Whitaker - https://www.instagram.com/matty.whittaker/ Abundant Earth -...

This is the first of 3 episodes with Gervase Wangwana - a Retrofit specialist, Airtightness tester and reformed DJ. Part 2 will look more into ventilation and part 3 is all about air tightness. Become a Patreon supporter in August 2022 and be in with a chance of winning a wonderful packbasket! (Also really help the podcast out!) https://www.patreon.com/buildingsustainability Episode Links: Green Building Store case study of Reform Cottage - https://www.greenbuildingstore.co.uk/reform-cottage-e...

Today I'm joined by Clare Nash who describes herself as an "Architect creating dream eco-homes, barn conversions plus environmental and community focused housing schemes" Today we are talking about how to find a work/life balance. Design Your Life Book - https://www.hive.co.uk/Product/Clare-Nash/Design-your-life--An-architects-guide-to-achieving-a-worklife-balance/26380240 Bursting with tips, ideas and how-tos on all aspects of designing a working life that suits you and your business, this boo...

The second Episode with Architect Clare Nash this time discussing the findings from her book Contemporary Vernacular Design How British Housing Can Rediscover Its Soul The book presents 25 inspirational housing schemes providing hope for the future of home building in Britain. Highlighting the need for the UK to reclaim its sense of local identity through the vernacular, these case studies are not just examples of good design but demonstrate the achievable nature of contemporary vernacular in t...

Building Physicist and certified PassivHaus designer Es Tresidder is back to discuss his EnerPHit retrofit project on his family home. We discuss what he's doing and what he has learned from pulling apart his home to do the work. Episode Links Es' website: http://www.highlandpassive.com/ Design of Es’ retrofit and Es’ employer - http://www.johngilbert.co.uk/ Building Sustainability Community Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/340122253926357 Building Sustainability Patreon (suppor...

It's a commonly held belief that adding mass into your building will make it more energy efficient. In this episode I talk with Es Tresidder about whether this is true and when extra mass in your building can be beneficial. About Es - I am a certified Passivhaus and AECB Carbonlite Retrofit designer. I have over ten years of experience in low-energy buildings in both consultancy and academic roles. I also teach on two Masters courses (Developing Low Carbon Communities and Sustainable Energy Sol...