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 Westmin...
Apr 22, 2025•1 hr 21 min•Season 1Ep. 133
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 hemp is such ...
Mar 10, 2025•1 hr 10 min•Season 1Ep. 132
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 hemp insula...
Dec 13, 2024•48 min•Season 1Ep. 131
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. Creative solutio...
Dec 13, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Season 1Ep. 130
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 Orkney , which draws on the land’s Neolithic history, combining locally sourced earth materials to create tactile art pieces that celebrate and reflect the landscape. Becky explains the influence of geology and place on her work, touching on the ancient methods and materials...
Nov 07, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 129
In this episode, we dive into the ancient and evolving craft of earth building with Kate Edwards, a seasoned sculptor and passionate teacher. Join us as Kate shares her journey from art therapy to building with cob, a natural and age-old construction material. Discover how she turns humble mud into beautiful, sustainable homes, all while inspiring a global community to embrace this timeless technique. From working on historic restorations to teaching hands-on workshops, Kate’s stories blend the ...
Oct 22, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Season 1Ep. 128
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 across West Wales – including the anarchic Tipi Valley, and the farm community Brithdir Mawr. He has lived in tipis, yurts and roundhouses, and travelled by horse-drawn wagon. With a background in architecture and carpentry and a passion for social structures, his experienc...
Oct 09, 2024•1 hr 22 min•Season 1Ep. 127
Tony and Faith wanted to live a simple low-impact life, so built a little roundhouse on some land in Wales. Little did they know that the lengthy resulting battle to stay in their home would be part of the beginning of the flagship One Planet Policy. We talk about building the roundhouse, filled with tips and learnings before discussing the legal battles with an incredibly inspiring tale. Many thanks to Tony and Faith - Have a listen and let me know what you think! Tony’s book - https://tinyurl....
Sep 26, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Season 1Ep. 126
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/ Llamac...
Sep 11, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Season 1Ep. 125
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...
Sep 11, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Season 1Ep. 124
A bonus episode with Archeologist Caroline Nicolay. The conversation explores building sustainable structures with chalk and earth materials, sharing experiences with chalk as a construction material and unique techniques like milk and cheese curd floors. The dialogue dives into experimentation with lime washes, thatching roofs with bracken, and the traditional practice of thatching within communities. They also touch on the circular evolution of housing practices and the symbolism of spoons in ...
May 16, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Season 1Ep. 123
In this episode of the Building Sustainability Podcast, Will Stanix joins me to delve into details of his barn conversion and upcoming clay plaster product. The discussion includes insights on hempcrete applications, clay mixes for roofs, and practical sustainable building practices. We touch on maintaining a raw yet functional look, and incorporating natural materials for a biophilic boost. The conversation highlights the process of renovating with authenticity, using lime mortar finishes, and ...
Apr 22, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Season 1Ep. 122
Join me and special guest Will Stanwix as we uncover the secrets of retrofitting a 300-year-old barn with crushed clay roof tiles for stunning finishes in vibrant hues. Dive deep into the history of a saw pit turned wheelwright's house, exploring artefacts and building techniques from the past. Learn about sustainable construction materials like clay blocks, hempcrete, and wood fibre insulation for eco-friendly and cosy spaces. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation on traditional buildi...
Apr 03, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Season 1Ep. 121
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 produc...
Mar 19, 2024•1 hr 18 min•Season 1Ep. 120
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.info/. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/That_Roundhouse Buglife (invertebrate roofs) - https://www.buglife.org.uk/ Center for ancient technology - https://ancienttechnologycentre.com/ Bill Coperthwaite - https://www.insearchofsimplicity.net/ BOOK - Bill Copperthwaite - A handma...
Feb 23, 2024•54 min•Season 1Ep. 119
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 construction. We also discuss different types of roundhouses, techniques for building ring beams and the practicality and sustainability of round structures. Join us as we share experiences and insights into the unique world of roundhouse construction. Episode links Wholewoo...
Feb 23, 2024•57 min•Season 1Ep. 118
In this episode of the Building Sustainability Podcast, host Jeffrey Hart sits down with Sam Goates from Woven in the Bone, a company that creates woven cloth on pedal-powered looms in Scotland. Sam discusses her love-hate relationship with her looms, the challenges of the industry, and the satisfaction she derives from weaving. We also delve into the process of starting a business, the importance of building relationships with customers, and the impact of rejection. Tune in to hear Sam's journe...
Feb 06, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Season 1Ep. 117
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 j...
Jan 23, 2024•40 min•Season 1Ep. 116
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 educat...
Jan 23, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Season 1Ep. 115
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 businesses ... and a whole load of tangents and material chat. Episode links Unearthed - https://www.instagram.com/unearthed_build/ Lewes Bonfire Society - https://www.lewesbonfire.com/ Kind Supply - https://www.kindsupply.uk/ Old Tree Brewery ( Kombucha - not a sponsor! Just ha...
Jan 09, 2024•1 hr 18 min•Season 1Ep. 114
Happy solstice everyone! This episode I'm once again joined by Mike Hill for a festive episode. Join us for an eggnog while we give a very lighthearted review of our year and answer listener questions. There are cracker jokes, mince pies and mulled wine - Plus we talk tiny house details, self-care, stoves, hemp insulation, top 5 tools and much more. Hope everyone enjoys the festive period, normal podcast schedule resumes in January with some incredible guests. Jeffrey xx Hosted on Acast. See aca...
Dec 21, 2023•1 hr 23 min•Season 1Ep. 113
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 bi...
Dec 04, 2023•50 min•Season 1Ep. 112
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.co...
Dec 04, 2023•59 min•Season 1Ep. 111
In this episode, we explore the process of constructing a house using a unique block system and the challenges faced along the way. From the use of robotics and CNC machines to the benefits and limitations of cork as a building material, the speaker shares their experience and insights. We also delve into the considerations of a circular economy, fire performance, and the use of timber in tall buildings. Join us as we dive into the world of innovative construction methods and sustainable design....
Nov 22, 2023•56 min•Season 1Ep. 110
In this episode, our guest, Matthew Barnett Howland, a Director of Research and Development at an architecture firm and Associate Professor, discusses the whole life approach to architecture and environmental sustainability. We delve into the use of cork as the main material in a cork house, exploring its limitations and the decision-making process behind it. Mathew shares insights on working with materials like straw, hemp, timber, and cork, and his shift towards sustainable building methods. T...
Nov 22, 2023•1 hr 4 min•Season 1Ep. 109
Jenny Ford is back to talk about her FactoryX project. It's a Show park/Training space/Materials store and so much more! Episode Links Nettlecombe Craft School Materials in Mind - https://materialsinmind.org/ Tiny Homes Community Bristol - https://www.tinyhousecommunitybristol.org/ Reuse Summit - https://asbp.org.uk/events/2023-reuse-summit LETI circular economy statement - https://www.leti.uk/circulareconomy1pager BOOK Richard Sennet - The Craftsman - https://tinyurl.com/yqcgeejs BOOK Richard S...
Nov 08, 2023•1 hr 15 min•Season 1Ep. 108
Join us for a spirited chat with Jenny Ford, a leading light in the circular economy movement, who brings a wealth of hands-on experience and innovative insights. What can we learn from her journey in sustainable development, from her masters to her current project with Snug Homes? Buckle up for a fascinating exploration of green construction, from low carbon modular designs to tiny homes. Episode links Materials In Mind - https://materialsinmind.org/ Ellen MacArthur Foundation - https://www.ell...
Oct 30, 2023•56 min•Season 1Ep. 107
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 best-selling author and columnist who explores the fascinating world of biophilic design, craft, and curious objects from history. We start by looking into the intriguing territory of biophilic design. Sally throws light on how our built environment impacts us physiological...
Oct 17, 2023•52 min•Season 1Ep. 106
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 journey from her first book about organic living to her exploration of the intersection of people, history, and nature. Let Sally inspire you with her love for practical interests and her belief in the value of being open to learning new skills and absorbing new information. We t...
Oct 17, 2023•53 min•Season 1Ep. 105
We go beyond the usual chit-chat and really dig deep into how our disconnection from nature is contributing to exploitative practices and how crafting can bring us back in sync with our roots. All the while, we analyze the dominant stories we live by and their role in perpetuating these exploitative practices. Crafting for us, isn't just a hobby, but a powerful tool to reconnect with nature and rewrite the world's narrative. Hear us wax lyrical about the unique connection between our hands and b...
Sep 18, 2023•1 hr 10 min•Season 1Ep. 104
