The Culburra Hemp House consists of three intersecting pavilions, two of which are tilted off parallel to the boundary to face true north for maximum solar control. The hempcrete walls provide a good combination of insulation and thermal mass. The monolithic hempcrete walls were cast on-site around a timber frame, minimising gaps between materials and, being both interior and exterior walls, they reduce the number of materials used. The hempcrete walls are vapour-permeable and the lime makes them naturally mould-resistant, creating a healthy indoor environment.

Fixed awnings allow penetration of winter sun to the polished concrete floor and provide shade in summer. Good solar passive design, combined with the hemp walls, sheep’s-wool ceiling insulation and double glazing mean that no mechanical heating or cooling is required.