Hemp Home

Joshua Tree, California

2020

1300 sq ft

This two bed, two bath house is composed of biocomposite hempcrete. Hempcrete is a material similar to adobe or rammed earth, made of industrial cannabis hemp hurd, lime binder, sand and water. Hempcrete Sustainability features include a high thermal mass and R values, lifetime carbon sequestering, earthquake tolerant and vapor permissibility. This project is the first permitted hempcrete structure in San Bernadino county, the country’s largest county.

Nestled in 2 acres of sloped terrain amongst 40 Joshua Trees, the project aims to delicately honor the native trees and plantings into the site planning and architecture. This is accomplished with intimate courtyards and view axis focused and aligned on the Joshua Trees. A minimalist massing stands in contrast with the rocky and jagged habitat, while the richness achieved through detail, dramatic natural light and natural materials feels perfectly at home. A stark, unornamented facade faces the public road, while the private backyard is opened up with large glass doors to the hills and landscape beyond.