Eco-Friendly Building Materials
We specify materials that do more with less—reducing embodied carbon, improving indoor air quality, and extending building life. Every choice ties back to our core approach: earth-sheltered planning, concrete arch efficiency, and resilience to bushfire and storms.
Low-Carbon, Durable, and Buildable
Low-Carbon Concrete
We reduce cement content with supplementary cementitious materials and recycled aggregates, improving durability while cutting embodied carbon.
- Blend with fly ash / slag (GGBFS) where practical
- Specify mixes with EPDs and strength/curing clarity
- Use for arch shells and thermal mass
Pairs naturally with Concrete Arches.
Certified Timber & CLT
Sustainably sourced timber and mass-timber (CLT/GLT) store biogenic carbon and offer excellent thermal performance.
- FSC/PEFC chain-of-custody where available
- Hybrid systems with concrete for spans & mass
- Prefabrication for less waste, faster builds
Recycled Steel
Steel is highly recyclable and reusable, ideal for structural frames, ties, and fixings—robust and circular.
- High recycled content (where mill supply allows)
- Design for disassembly and reuse
- Hot-dip galvanizing or weathering grades for durability
Low / Zero-VOC Finishes
We favour water-based, low-odor paints, adhesives, and sealants to keep indoor air calm and healthy.
- Target low/zero-VOC ranges with third-party labels
- Specify primers and sealants to match topcoats
- Ventilation plan during and after application
Natural & High-Performance Insulation
Cellulose, mineral wool, and rigid boards with recycled content deliver thermal and acoustic comfort.
- Right R-values for climate & orientation
- Moisture-aware detailing at junctions
- Fire and pest resistance considered early
Green Roofs & Living Systems
Vegetated roofs add insulation, moderate heat, and absorb stormwater—ideal with earth-sheltered forms.
- Layering: root barrier, drainage, growing medium
- Drought-tolerant species; safe access provision
- Maintenance plan included in handover
Integrates with Earth-Shelter Principles.
Materials Aligned to Performance
Comfort & Energy
Thermal mass from concrete and earth, plus smart insulation and shading, stabilise temperatures and reduce energy use.
See also Storm Resilient Homes.
Durability & Maintenance
Robust shells, recyclable metals, and weather-tolerant finishes mean fewer repairs and longer life—especially in harsh climates.
Healthier Interiors
Low/zero-VOC finishes and ventilation strategies keep indoor air clear, with materials selected to minimise off-gassing.
Approvals & Documentation
We document material selections with clear specifications, certifications, and details—council-ready and builder-friendly.
1) Brief & Climate
We map orientation, wind, rainfall, fire risk, and soil before locking materials.
2) Schematic & Options
Compare carbon, cost, and performance across material options with drawings that show buildability.
3) Specs & EPDs
We include product EPDs and maintenance notes so choices are transparent and future-proof.
Common Questions on Green Materials
Will low-carbon mixes delay my program?
We choose mix designs that meet strength and curing windows, coordinating with the builder so schedules hold.
Can eco materials handle extreme weather?
Yes—our selections balance environmental impact with bushfire and storm resilience.
Do healthier paints cost more?
Some do upfront, but they lower odor, reduce off-gassing, and can cut rework—paying back over the life of the home.
Can we mix timber and concrete?
Absolutely. Hybrid systems use each material where it performs best—spans, mass, acoustics, and fire performance considered together.
Specify Better, Build Smarter
We’ll align materials with your site, budget, and risk profile—then document them clearly for approvals and construction.