Natural Materials Episodes

March 9, 2025

Circular, Modular, Hemp Construction - Chloe Donovan - BS132

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 modula...

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Dec. 13, 2024

From Constraints to Creativity: The Art of Sustainable Renovations -…

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, ...

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Dec. 13, 2024

Retrofit Naturally with Sigi Koko - BS130

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...

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Nov. 7, 2024

Earth, Time and Transformation - Becky Little - BS192

In this episode, we sit down with Becky Little, an artist, builder, and earth enthusiast, who shares her journey from traditional building to her deeply rooted, place-based art. Becky discusses her Orkney project, EarthBound ...

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Oct. 9, 2024

Building community at Lammas Ecovillage - Tao Wimbush - BS127

Join me in conversation with one of the founding members of Lammas Eco Village - Tao Wimbush. Tao Paul Wimbush is the co-founder of the Lammas Ecovillage in West Wales. He has a wealth of experience in alternative communities...

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Sept. 11, 2024

Llamacroft, a bio-based Passivhaus Pt2 - Janna Laan Lomas - BS125

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 t...

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Sept. 11, 2024

Llamacroft, a bio-based Passivhaus Pt1 - Janna Laan Lomas - BS124

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 paren...

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March 19, 2024

The past informs the present, the present informs the past - Caroline…

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 journ...

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Feb. 23, 2024

How to Build a Roundhouse Pt2 - Adrian Leaman - BS119

How to Build a Roundhouse - Part 2! Be sure to check out Part 1 first. Episode links Wholewoods - https://wholewoods.co.uk/ Buildcamp - https://www.instagram.com/buildcamp/ Tony Wrench Roundhouse - https://www.thatroundhouse....

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Feb. 23, 2024

How to Build a Roundhouse Pt1 - Adrian Leaman - BS118

Adrian Leaman from Wholewoods delves into the world of roundhouses and sustainable building practices. The conversation spans from building advice to foundation methods and the importance of using the right timber species in ...

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Jan. 23, 2024

Land/Clay/Timber - Paloma Gormley - BS116

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 block...

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Jan. 23, 2024

Architecture from Ecology - Paloma Gormley - BS115

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, ...

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Jan. 9, 2024

Lessons from running a Natural Building company - Julz Baker - BS114

Today I'm joined by natural builder Julz Baker from Unearthed to talk about the lessons he learned from running a natural building company. It's a frank chat about some of the pitfalls that may await new natural building busi...

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Dec. 4, 2023

Biophilic Design Enhancing Well-being and Environment [2of2] - Vaness…

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 e...

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Dec. 4, 2023

Biophilic Design Enhancing Well-being and Environment [1of2] - Vaness…

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 patt...

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Nov. 22, 2023

Cork House [1of2] - Matthew Barnett Howland - BS109

Architectural Character and the Power of Plant Based Materials

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Nov. 8, 2023

FactoryX - Jenny Ford - BS108

So much more than a show park

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Oct. 30, 2023

Going Circular with Snug Homes - Jenny Ford - BS107

Circular Economy for Sustainable Construction

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Oct. 17, 2023

Joining the Dots: Nature, History & Craft [Pt2] - Sally Coulthard - B…

Ever felt weary in a dull, grey office? Touched a piece of handcrafted wood and felt a strange sense of connection? Wondered why a bottle of earthworm medicine from the 1700s is significant? Our guest, Sally Coulthard, has! A...

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Oct. 17, 2023

Joining the Dots: Nature, History & Craft [Pt1] - Sally Coulthard - B…

Prepare to be enlightened as we enter the captivating world of sustainability and crafting with best-selling author and countryside expert, Sally Coulthard. Sally breaks the mould with her diverse interests, sharing her journ...

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July 25, 2023

Designing the Future: Creativity and Innovation in Sustainability - H…

What if we told you that the journey to sustainability involves more than just recycling and reducing emissions? Prepare to be enthralled as we navigate through transformational narratives of businesses pivoting towards susta...

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July 11, 2023

Building with Purpose: The Straw Bale House Experience - Jo Bolton & …

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. W...

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June 27, 2023

Building an Off-Grid Community: Lessons from Abundant Earth - Jo Bolt…

Ever wondered what it's like to create an intentional community from the ground up? Join us for a heartwarming conversation with Jo Bolton and Matt Whitaker , co founders of Abundant Earth , as they share their journey of bui...

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