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Cornwall LivingIssue #82

Honouring tradition

Placing emphasis on environmentally conscious and sustainable living, we catch up with Natural Build owner, Will Richard.

Helston based Natural Build is a Cornish construction company that focuses on using natural and traditional methods such as cob and straw bale building, as well as lime plastering and traditional timber frame construction.

Will tells us:

“We use lime plaster and pointing, as well as other traditional techniques to properly maintain period properties where inappropriate cement renders and pointing will only worsen issues such as damp.”

Years of experience in the industry ensure that the Natural Build team always use these products correctly, giving them the necessary time and care.

“We are eco-build enthusiasts,” Will continues. “Straw bale construction comes with a tiny carbon footprint, and is incredibly energy efficient when lived in.” In fact, properly constructed, we learn that a straw bale house can achieve around 75% savings on heating costs. “There is enough straw wasted in the UK to build nearly 500,000 three-bed homes each year, and a traditional oak frame can last hundreds of years next to its stick built counterparts!”

Will and the team are able to handle the entire project, from conception and planning right the way through to completing the construction work. They can also work on individual aspects of your project, with the ability to tackle more conventional building works, depending on your requirements. So if you’re looking to enlist the help of a Cornish company that shares your passion for eco-friendly living, one that can deliver the traditional look that will blend seamlessly into your home’s natural surroundings, be sure to give Will and the Natural Build team a call.

“We use lime plaster and pointing, as well as other traditional techniques to properly maintain period properties where inappropriate cement renders and pointing will only worsen issues such as damp.”