Modern Home Builders Issue 129 October 2023 | Page 40

Cover Story _______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Innovative renewables
“ For several years , I worked on cloud computing software and was part of the team that built the first open-source public cloud alongside NASA . While Doug focused on the day-to-day operations of our business , we would talk every night about how to apply various methodologies and management techniques to each custom home project . There are numerous parallels between building custom software and building custom homes . In 2019 , our business had scaled to the point where I decided to focus solely on my role as CEO within our company . My background as an executive , managing custom software development and global operations , combined with Doug ’ s extensive knowledge of building science and passion for artistry , made for the perfect yin and yang to run our business .”
Doug expands further : “ We ’ ve occupied a key position in many construction innovations since we began , with me designing a line of non-toxic products to create eco-safe spaces that were initially aimed at children . We ’ ve built several homes that are ‘ five-star green ’ and more recently , we were the first builders in Austin to be part of building a hempcrete home , and the first to use hemp wool insulation .”
“ Hempcrete is much like concrete ,” adds Lillie , “ but it ’ s non-toxic , meaning it provides a great opportunity to harness the benefits of natural materials . It ’ s also renewable and can be produced in regenerative ways on local farms , which is a bonus .” Lillie adds that hemp wool insulation is similar in price when compared to rock wool insulation , as it is naturally mold resistant , pest resistant and is also fire retardant .
Image © Casey Dunn
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