Original article on Tweed Coast Times April 4, 2026 BY Pancho Symes
Construction is set to begin within weeks on a highly anticipated sustainable home in the Northern Rivers for Zac Efron, with zero-waste design innovator Joost Bakker leading the project.
Building to start on Zac Efron’s Hemptastic Northern Rivers Sustainable Mansion
Originally reported by Pancho Symes (April 4, 2026), the project—described as a “Greenhouse”—is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious examples of regenerative building in Australia, with hemp playing a central role throughout the design.
A regenerative vision grounded in materials and systems
Bakker’s approach is rooted in circular design principles, eliminating waste and prioritising materials that can be reused, recycled, or returned safely to the الأرض. In this project, that philosophy is being pushed further than ever.
“I believe in circular systems… I don’t really use materials that can’t be easily recycled or recovered.” — Joost Bakker
The home will integrate soil as a structural element, with approximately 100 tonnes planned for the roof system. This is not just aesthetic, it reflects a deeper shift toward buildings that function more like living systems.
Hemp steps into the structural spotlight
For the Hemp Building Directory audience, the most notable aspect is the extensive use of hemp, not just as insulation or infill, but as a structural and joinery material.
“In Zac’s house we’re using it structurally… as an MDF particle board replacement… and in quite a few different ways.” — Joost Bakker
This aligns with a growing movement toward hemp-based construction materials that go beyond hempcrete, including hemp fibre boards and bio-based composites. These innovations are critical for reducing reliance on resource-intensive materials sourced from mining and forestry.
Northern Rivers: a hub for sustainable living
The choice of location reflects a broader trend. The Northern Rivers region continues to attract high-profile individuals seeking a closer connection to nature, including Chris Hemsworth, Pat Rafter, and Karl Stefanovic.
For Efron, the region holds personal significance:
“It’s one of his favourite parts of the world… he just loves to immerse himself in nature.” Joost Bakker
Hemp as a pathway for farmers and biodiversity
Beyond the build itself, Bakker points to a larger opportunity—integrating hemp into agricultural systems as a rotational crop that can restore soil health while supplying the construction industry.
“Our farmers can supply the materials to build the houses of the future and in the process restore their soil.”
This dual benefit, construction material and regenerative agriculture input, positions hemp as a key player in the transition toward low-impact building.
Industry momentum and the role of visibility
Projects like this carry influence beyond their footprint. According to Lisa Flower from iHemp NSW, interest in industrial hemp—particularly for building, is steadily increasing.
“Having someone high profile like Zac Efron build what is being called one of the most sustainable houses in the world is a great way to profile hemp in Australia.”
With Efron expected to take an active role in the build, the project also offers a rare opportunity to bring mainstream attention to hemp’s capabilities in construction.
Looking ahead
As construction begins, this Northern Rivers “Greenhouse” is set to become a landmark project, not just for its design ambition, but for what it represents: a convergence of celebrity influence, regenerative design, and the expanding role of hemp in the built environment.
For the hemp building sector, it signals a continued shift from niche material to mainstream solution, supported by innovation, visibility, and growing demand.
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