#Canada #Kelowna #sustainable living #Wilden #Hemp Insulation

Wilden Introduces Kelowna's First Hemp-Insulated House

In a groundbreaking move towards sustainability, Wilden, a prominent developer based in Kelowna, has unveiled the first hemp-insulated home in Okanagan and one of the pioneering models in British Columbia. Located at 278 Summer Wood Drive, this innovative residence not only showcases cutting-edge environmental design but also adheres to the principles that Wilden champions—fusing energy efficiency with eco-friendly materials.

The Vision Behind the Home

Wilden's latest project adds a new chapter to its narrative of creating sustainable communities. The newly revealed home is designed to meet the highest energy efficiency standards set by British Columbia, boasting a spacious layout of 2,430 square feet that features five bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms. It also includes a legally finished suite encompassing an additional 847 square feet. Nestled within the Echo Ridge neighborhood, the home is conveniently situated near hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Advantages of Hemp Insulation

Hemp insulation sets itself apart from conventional materials due to its many benefits. This high-performance material is carbon-negative, enhancing thermal efficiency while reducing indoor noise levels and improving air quality. Unlike traditional insulation, hemp is non-allergenic and devoid of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as well as synthetic toxins, making it a healthier option for homeowners.

Moreover, hemp actively absorbs and stores carbon dioxide (CO₂) during its rapid growth cycle of 3 to 4 months. It can sequester 1.5 to 2 times its weight in carbon, thus significantly lowering the embodied carbon found in standard building materials like fiberglass. By utilizing hemp insulation within this home, Wilden has dramatically diminished the carbon footprint associated with its construction.

A Home Built with the Future in Mind

This house is not just about residential comfort but also about setting a benchmark for sustainable living. It is established according to the B.C. Energy Step Code 5, signifying it is net-zero ready and optimized for energy efficiency, ultimately leading to lower utility costs and a diminished environmental impact.

Key features of the home include:

• - Solar-Optimized Roof: Designed to accommodate solar panels, paving the way for a potential fully net-zero home.
• - Airtight Construction: The house boasts an impressive air exchange rate of under 1 ACH (air changes per hour) due to its advanced envelope and sealing techniques, thus preserving energy.
• - High-Efficiency HVAC Systems: Equipped with an air-source heat pump and a backup gas furnace, ensuring year-round climate control.
• - Heat Pump Water Heater: This feature reduces reliance on natural gas, further promoting a decrease in energy expenses.
• - EV Charging Ready: The infrastructure is prepared for future electric vehicle charging, reflecting a commitment to integrating modern technology with sustainable practices.

An Invitation to Experience Sustainability

“The construction of this hemp-insulated home marks an exciting advance in sustainable building methods,” said Karin Eger-Blenk, CEO of the Wilden Group. “We aim to lessen environmental impacts not just during the life of the home, but also through our choices in materials.”

Wilden is inviting potential homeowners and all those enthusiastic about sustainability to visit this revolutionary hemp-insulated home during an Open House event on Saturday, March 29, 2025, from 12 PM to 5 PM. Attendees will get the chance to experience the innovative features firsthand, engage with the Wilden team, and discover what energy-efficient living will look like in Kelowna.

For media inquiries regarding attendance at the Open House, please RSVP via email or visit Wilden's official website to schedule a viewing. This endeavor by Wilden illustrates a profound commitment to a greener future, aiming to set a standard for eco-conscious living that others may aspire to follow.