Exploring Sustainable Retrofits: The Journey to a Natural Home

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 solutions for insulating, incorporating mass, and optimizing indoor air quality.
• The unique decision-making process required for retrofits, including balancing budget, structural concerns, and environmental impact.
• Why clay, hemp, and other natural materials are so transformative for homes and the people who inhabit them.
• Hosting workshops during a build to empower others in the natural building movement.

This episode is packed with practical advice, inspiring stories, and fascinating insights into natural building techniques that work for both new builds and retrofits.

Show Links:

• Sigi's website - https://www.buildnaturally.com/
• Jeffrey's Earthen Floor Company - https://www.theearthenfloorcompany.com/
• Sigi's first Building Sustainability Episode - https://www.buildingsustainabilitypodcast.com/how-to-design-the-natural-home-of-your-dreams-sigi-koko-bs070/
• Will Stanwix - https://thathempcreteguy.com/
• The Earthen Floor book
• Hemptecture - https://www.hempitecture.com/
• Podcast Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/c/buildingsustainability
• Nettlecombe Craft School - https://www.nettlecombecraftschool.com/

Support the Podcast: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review, share it with your friends, and help spread the word about sustainable building!

Connect with me:

IG - @jeffreythenaturalbuilder

Facebook - Jeffreythenaturalbuilder

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