Dec. 13, 2024

Retrofit Naturally with Sigi Koko - BS130

Retrofit Naturally with Sigi Koko - BS130

In this episode of the Building Sustainability Podcast, Sigi Koko of Down to Earth Design shares her deeply personal journey of transforming a historic farmhouse into a fully natural, sustainable home. From retrofitting with hempcrete to creating stunning clay archways, Sigi discusses the challenges, surprises, and joys of renovating a home with natural materials.

We explore:

  • The differences between renovation and retrofit—and why Sigi sees her project as the ultimate retrofit.
  • Creative solutions for insulating, incorporating mass, and optimizing indoor air quality.
  • The unique decision-making process required for retrofits, including balancing budget, structural concerns, and environmental impact.
  • Why clay, hemp, and other natural materials are so transformative for homes and the people who inhabit them.
  • Hosting workshops during a build to empower others in the natural building movement.

This episode is packed with practical advice, inspiring stories, and fascinating insights into natural building techniques that work for both new builds and retrofits.

 

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Sigi Koko Profile Photo

Sigi Koko

Sigi Koko is the principal designer of Down to Earth Design, which she founded in 1998 to help her clients manifest their dreams
of living in a natural, healthy home. She works exclusively on projects that are natural, energy-efficient buildings, on the
forefront of sustainable design. Every project functions in synchronicity with its environment, relating to seasonal cycles of sun,
wind, and rain to provide natural heating and cooling primarily from passive (free!) sources. Her clients enjoy an average 50%
reduction in total energy usage compared to conventional buildings. She uses a palette of building materials that ensure healthy
indoor space and minimal environmental impact.

Sigi translates each client's vision into a unique design that reflects their personality and lifestyle, while responding to the
surrounding landscape and climate. Sigi's uniquely collaborate design process provides a high level of information and support
that encourages her clients to engage fully throughout design and construction. She also teaches natural building workshops
that empower her clients to contribute creatively during the construction of their own home.

Sigi Koko holds a Masters of Architecture degree from the University of Texas at Austin, where she learned fundamental design
skills. After earning her degree, she spent two years building homes to learn the practical side of how buildings are constructed.
This in-the-field experience helps her communicate well with builders. She spent two years c… Read More

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Feb. 14, 2022

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