Building with hempcrete

Dutch architectural firm Werkstatt created the first Dutch house built entirely from hempcrete.

Hempcrete or hemplime is a mixture of lime and hemp wood, the woody inner part of hemp stalks. This biocomposite can be used for the construction of walls, ceilings and roofs, as well as thermal and sound insulation. The material is lightweight and vapour open. It is also fire-, wind-, rot- and fungi-proof. Hempcrete can be used a prefab blocks, spray-on, or, as in the case of the project by Werkstatt, poured manually into a wooden construction for a seamless result.

The hempcrete house is located in Oudega in Friesland, and is said to be the first Dutch house made entirely out of hempcrete. This construction method has a CO2 negative footprint, and with its breathing characteristics, the material offers a healthy indoor environment.

The main construction of the house is made of oak wood, the same material historically used for farms in the area. Into the timber frame construction the hempcrete is poured for a homogenous, insulating wall. On the inside, the wall is plastered with lime.

The house is built to be self-sufficient, generating its own energy and using compost toilets.

The shape of the building was designed to fit into the landscape, but updated with modern details and material use. Made of zinc, the roof contrasts with the natural looking walls and reflects the Frisian skies.

Werkstatt, founded in 2014, aims to use as many natural building materials as possible. Not only do these materials help sustain a comfortable indoor climate through their breathability and regulatory characteristics, but they also complement Werkstatt’s simple and elegant aesthetics.

Photos: MWA Hart Nibbrig