Building With More Natural Materials. Working Closer with The Earth.

     Hey friends, I want to share a message about building in a more environmentaly  friendly way. I was recntly in Costa Rica and had the beautiful opportunity to design and build a stage at Envision festival. There wasn't much budget for this project but there was plenty of bamboo lying around the festival grounds from other projects and plenty of drift wood on the beach. I had about a week to pull it off and alot of artistic preasure I put on myself. As I'm no person to showcase slopy work! This challange brought new insight on how we can make beauty with just the things that are around us. Now this does come with limits as we still source 99% of our materials from elsewhere for our builds. But with this intention, we can be more decerning of what companies we buy from, where raw materials are sourced, how much processing goes into making the materials, how long they will last, and what is the best balance between it all. 

Intro To Sustainable Materials:

Building green is more than a trend; it's a necessity. Sustainable materials help reduce the environmental impact of construction. They also offer long-term health benefits for builders and occupants. I mean aren't we all over using things that are bad for our health?

Using these materials can lower energy costs and improve indoor air quality. Let's explore some key sustainable materials for modern construction.

Recycled Steel

Recycled steel emerges as a robust choice for sustainable construction due to its strength, durability, and reduced environmental footprint. By utilizing recycled steel for framing and structural elements, builders not only harness its structural integrity but also contribute to resource conservation. Unlike traditional steel production, which involves significant energy inputs and emissions, recycling steel consumes less energy and minimizes greenhouse gas emissions. Builders can source recycled steel from old buildings, decommissioned infrastructure, and scrapped automobiles, effectively diverting these materials from landfills. This practice not only conserves natural resources but also reduces the environmental impact associated with mining and processing virgin steel. Embracing recycled steel in construction aligns with principles of circular economy, promoting sustainability by closing the material loop and fostering a more resilient built environment for future generations.

Bamboo

Building with bamboo exemplifies sustainability in construction. This versatile grass grows rapidly, replenishing itself quickly, making it an eco-friendly alternative to traditional building materials. Its strength-to-weight ratio rivals that of steel, offering structural stability while being lightweight and flexible. Bamboo's natural resilience to pests and diseases reduces the need for chemical treatments, further minimizing environmental impact. Beyond its practical benefits, bamboo's aesthetic appeal lends a unique charm to architectural designs, blending seamlessly with natural surroundings. Embracing bamboo in construction not only promotes environmental stewardship but also fosters innovation in sustainable building practices, paving the way for a greener future.

Rammed Earth

Rammed earth is an ancient building technique. It involves compacting soil into solid walls. This method creates strong, energy-efficient structures.

Rammed earth walls offer excellent thermal mass. This helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing the need for heating and cooling.

Builders can find recycled wood from old barns, factories, and other structures. This gives new life to old materials.

Hemp & Wool 

Hemp and wool insulation represent a sustainable leap forward in building materials. Hemp fibers, derived from the cannabis plant, offer excellent thermal and acoustic properties while requiring minimal energy for production. They are naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and pests, enhancing indoor air quality. Wool insulation, sourced from sheep's fleece, provides effective thermal regulation and sound absorption, contributing to energy efficiency in buildings. Both materials are biodegradable and renewable, supporting a circular economy. Their use reduces reliance on fossil fuel-based insulation products and minimizes environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. Incorporating hemp and wool insulation not only improves building performance but also underscores a commitment to sustainable construction practices and healthier living environments.

These are just a few examnples of materials to consider for your projects. Of course the location and goals for your project will determine what materials make since but I hope that this gives you some inspiration to start thinking on that path. 

Much Love, 

Devon