Nestled in the heart of Western Australia’s Margaret River wine region, Indica Hemp House stands as a testament to what’s possible when natural building, eco-conscious design, and premium comfort come together in harmony.

Written by Sharlene Mavor – Owner and Proprietor of Indica Hemp House

More than just a short-term accommodation offering, Indica Hemp House is a pioneering example of how alternative building methods—particularly the use of hempcrete—can redefine the meaning of sustainable living without compromising on luxury.

Why We Chose to Build with Hempcrete

At the core of Indica Hemp House is our commitment to sustainability, not just as a buzzword, but as a lived philosophy. Our decision to build with hempcrete—a bio-composite made of hemp hurd, lime, and water—was grounded in its environmental, health, and aesthetic advantages. We were profoundly inspired after seeing a presentation from Gary Rogers of Hemp Homes Australia around 5 years prior, and it was a natural decision to build with this expert builder from Margaret River. Hempcrete is carbon-sequestering, thermally efficient, breathable, and non-toxic. It doesn’t just insulate a building—it regulates moisture and indoor air quality, creating a naturally comfortable living environment.

Hempcrete also tells a powerful story of circular and regenerative design. The hemp used in the construction of Indica was grown locally in Western Australia under the direction of Margaret River Hemp Processing, supporting the regional hemp industry and reducing the carbon footprint associated with transport. Around 30% of the walls in the home celebrate the beauty of natural texture and subtle variation, showcasing that sustainable doesn’t have to mean sterile or minimal—it can be warm, luxurious, and inspiring.

A Vision Brought to Life

Indica Hemp House was purpose-built as a short stay retreat with sustainability at its foundation and guest experience at its heart. Set on a tranquil lake in Wilyabrup, a pocket of the Margaret River Region known for its rolling vineyards and untouched beauty, the home was designed to foster a sense of stillness, connection, and presence.
The structure features four spacious king suites, each with its own ensuite bathroom, rainwater-fed shower, and glass sliding doors that open directly to views of the lake or native bushland. Interior walls are finished with clay micro acrylic plaster, Marbellino lime plaster in the ensuites, locally sourced photo art, and other natural materials, creating an organic, soft and calming palette that blends seamlessly with the environment.

Despite its rural location, Indica doesn’t skimp on comfort. Guests enjoy a private 10-seat hydrotherapy spa, a cinema room with a 98-inch Smart TV, a chef’s kitchen with premium appliances, and EV charging facilities. The house is off-grid water-wise, drawing exclusively from a UV-treated rainwater supply and powered primarily by a large solar array with battery backup—proving that self-sufficiency and elegance can coexist.

Meeting the Market with Something New

In the short-term accommodation space, eco-friendly stays are growing in demand—but many still fall short on luxury, design, or comfort. Indica Hemp House fills this gap by offering a five-star guest experience in a fully sustainable package.

From the acoustic insulation of the hempcrete walls to the mood lighting in every suite, each detail has been carefully considered to elevate the stay while reducing impact. All toiletry products (hempseed oil infused and locally made) are eco-certified, single-use plastics are avoided, and guests are encouraged to recycle through clearly labelled systems.

Indica’s guest reviews speak for themselves—100% five-star ratings to date! Travellers comment on the peace they feel while staying there, the quiet luxury of the materials, and the sense of purpose behind the design. For those seeking a deeper connection to nature without sacrificing style or convenience, Indica has become a destination in its own right.

Building for the Future

The success of Indica Hemp House has not only reinforced our belief in natural building—it has inspired us to continue pushing the boundaries of what sustainable hospitality can look like in Australia.

The project was awarded six WA Master Builders Awards, including 2024 Best Country Home – South West, recognising its innovation, craftsmanship, and contribution to regional building excellence. These accolades affirm that natural materials like hempcrete can meet (and exceed) modern performance and aesthetic standards when combined with thoughtful design and quality execution.

For the natural building community, Indica Hemp House is a powerful case study in how hempcrete and off-grid technologies can enter the mainstream through the hospitality industry. By introducing hundreds of guests each year to what a hemp home feels like—warm in winter, cool in summer, and incredibly serene—we hope to shift mindsets, spark curiosity, and inspire more builds grounded in natural materials.

A Call to Conscious Design

As climate pressures mount and travellers become more eco-aware, the need for alternative building approaches has never been more urgent. But change doesn’t need to feel like sacrifice. Indica Hemp House proves that living lightly can be deeply luxurious.

To anyone considering building with natural materials, embracing hempcrete, or launching an eco-retreat—our message is simple: it’s absolutely worth it! You’ll create not just a home or a business, but a living, breathing space that tells a story—of renewal, resilience, and connection to place.

🌿 To learn more or book a stay, visit: www.indica.au
📍 Located in Wilyabrup, Margaret River Region, Western Australia

You can find them on our Directory If you’re looking to advertise your natural home short stay get in touch!

For builders, designers, or natural building enthusiasts who’d like to learn more about the construction process, feel free to contact us—we’re passionate about sharing knowledge and growing the movement.