In this review we look at the both new and very old, emerging building technique using hemp.

Building with Hemp by Steve Allin has been an inspiration for architects, builders, community activists, students and teachers around the world and as this construction system is gaining in popularity this edition will be even more important in assisting the uptake of this technology internationally. In it’s second edition, a signed by the author copy of the book can be purchased exclusively from the Seedpress bookstore.

Steve Allin is an author, teacher and consultant on ecological building. He has enthusiastically pioneered the use of hemp in building in Ireland and internationally for many years and is the founding director of the International Hemp Building Association IHBA he continues to teach and lecture worldwide on the subject of hemp building.

Building with Hemp, 2nd edition, by Steve Allin, reviewed

This book has gone to two editions and a revision also, as readers become more interested in natural building techniques in general, and using hemp in particular. Allin has been in the business for a long time, and has  seen the evolution of techniques, building materials and improved ways of using hemp, hempcrete, and hemp and lime for plastering.

See more in our podcast interview with the author above

Allin brings this long period of working in the industry into this book and it does ensure that this book is comprehensive and wide ranging. There are interesting chapters on the evolution of the use of hemp, pioneered to some degree in France. He then covers hempcrete, renovation uses, hemp plaster, hemp fibre and then specific how-to sections. The book is also complemented by lots of visual illustrations which do help to ensure that the book is colourful and engaging and not an academic treatise. We found the book useful, helpful and did a great job of explaining why working with hemp is a smart move and the best ways to use it.

As the book was published in 2016 it would seem like it might now be time for another updated edition, but until then this is a great guide for those looking to work with more natural building materials.

Another book by Steve Allin ->

Hemp Can’t Save The Planet BUT It Might Save Humanity!