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About us

Welcome to the world of Straw-Bale Building, where sustainability meets creativity. This innovative building technique has been around for centuries, but it has gained popularity in recent years due to its numerous benefits such as superior insulation, affordability, and eco-friendliness.

Strawbale UK Board

Cypren Edmunds - Chairperson


Cypren, a founder of StrawBale UK, is involved with various sustainable construction organisations. With a diverse background in sports, music, and carpentry, he excels in leadership and project management. Cypren specialises in building partnerships and synthesising information. He chairs StrawBale UK, presides over the European Strawbuilding Association, and is a director for William Morris House.

Julia Bennett - Secretary


Julia is the founder of Julia Bennett Architects Ltd, an Architectural practice in the North Cotswolds that focuses on low carbon and Passivhaus design using natural construction materials. In 2022 she co-authored the first edition of the Technical Guide to Straw Construction in the UK and re-joined the SBUK Board in August 2024.

Annie Benton - Treasurer


Annie is a Certified Passive House Designer and Director of Adyta, a Suffolk-based sustainable construction company. She resides in her family's home built with Ecococon straw panels, embodying her commitment to eco-friendly living. Having completed a Masters in Green Building, Annie applies her expertise as a Technical Specification Advisor for Ecological Building Systems.

Simone Cort - Membership Secretary


Simone is a qualified architect with 15 years' experience, now working in administration for education and charity sectors. A long-term Holborn resident, she is passionate about London's buildings, sustainability, and community support. Simone has volunteered for Open House London, contributed to environmental articles, and actively participates in local community initiatives.

John Butler - Director


John is a sustainable building consultant offering practical guidance and research-based advice. He provides Passivhaus planning, carbon calculations, and expertise on low-carbon construction for new and historical buildings. John has contributed to research projects and training programs, including the recent Straw Construction in the UK Technical Guide. He regularly lectures at the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) on sustainable construction.

Chris Hawker - Director


Chris is the co-founder of Hawkland, a trailblazing company in natural and sustainable construction. With over 15 years of hands-on experience in almost every type of straw building across the UK and Europe, Chris brings unparalleled expertise to our team. His academic credentials include a Master’s in Advanced Environmental and Energy Studies from CAT. 

Matt Davenport


Matt is a Chartered Architectural Technologist and certified Passivhaus Designer with 20 years of experience. He specialises in technical detailing and has a strong commitment to sustainability, including the use of natural materials such as lime, cellulose, and hemp.


Our aims:

To promote straw building and best practice within the sector.


Strawbale UK (SBUK) is an association of practitioners, designers, academics, enthusiasts and trainers.

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