Hemp House by earthtopeoplestudio is an eco-conscious rehabilitation of an abandoned 1930s cabin in the Schoharie Valley, New York, led by Brittany and Jordan Weller, who subsequently founded the design studio Earth to People. The couple originally intended to build a new straw-bale house but instead chose a mindful, preservation-focused approach to revive the existing, dilapidated structure. The renovation was performed on a modest budget, prioritizing the use of locally sourced materials and salvaged items from the property itself, including fieldstone.

The design philosophy focused on respecting the past to build a better, more sustainable future, challenging conventional, modern building standards. Materials were selected based on their regional availability and sustainable qualities. For instance, Eastern White Pine and Eastern Cedar were used for their proximity, reducing transport-related environmental impact. Charring the exterior timber using a slow, meditative, on-site process—rather than automated, high-heat methods—protected the wood naturally against decay, insects, and weather, while providing fire resistance. A final coat of natural tung oil was applied with assistance from the owners' children.

The home's most significant sustainable upgrade, and the source of its name, is the addition of zero-carbon, plant-based hemp insulation. The insulation was applied in the form of hempcrete, a breathable material made from the woody core of the hemp plant mixed with a lime binder. This natural mixture regulates interior temperature and humidity by absorbing and releasing moisture, reducing the risk of mold and eliminating the need for plastic or vapor barriers. Inside, the cabin features a warm and inviting atmosphere, in contrast to its weathered exterior.

Credits

Design and Renovation: Earth to People Studio (Brittany Weller and Jordan Weller)

Photography: Capture: Catskills

Styling Assistance: Ashley Cheeks