This rural self-build, commissioned by an environmentally focused private client, seeks to deliver a sustainable family home through the use of low-carbon, bio-based materials. Following planning approval in 2023, the development comprises four elements: a main dwelling, a barn-style annexe, a workshop and a timber-framed garage.

Central to the design is the use of hempcrete—a bio-composite formed from hemp shiv and lime binder—as the primary walling material. Its high thermal mass and vapour-permeable properties support stable internal temperatures and moisture regulation, reducing reliance on mechanical heating and ventilation systems. The material’s ability to absorb and sequester carbon over its lifecycle further reduces the project’s embodied impact, positioning it as a robust alternative to conventional high-carbon construction.

The scheme employs a bespoke timber frame, developed in collaboration with the structural engineer and designed to operate without OSB sheathing. This detail allows the hempcrete substrate and lime-based finishes to perform as a fully breathable envelope, enhancing indoor air quality while supporting the durability of the building fabric.

Beyond its technical performance, hempcrete lends a distinctive organic character to the architecture, enabling the buildings to sit comfortably within their rural setting. Construction is planned to commence with the workshop, providing a practical space for prefabrication and assembly to support the wider programme.

By combining contemporary engineering with heritage construction techniques, the project demonstrates how bio-based materials can elevate sustainable design, delivering a low-carbon, energy-efficient home that is both resilient and attuned to its natural context.