REFLECTIONS presenter

In evolving our built environment to adapt to minimising carbon use and creating more energy efficient structures, Chris Ball will discuss his company’s prefabricated hemp-panel system. He will explore how prefabrication can deliver economic and on-site efficiencies across both remote regional and urban projects, while examining the environmental, thermal and practical benefits of using hemp as a building material.

CHRIS BALL

Chris Ball works with Otetto, an Australian company developing plant-based construction systems that reduce reliance on carbon-intensive building materials. Its core product, Living Canvas, is a prefabricated hemp-panel system designed to move hemp construction from a slow, site-based process into controlled off-site manufacturing. The aim is to give architects and builders a wall system that is easier to specify, price, manufacture and install.

Chris brings a practical industry view to that work. He is a builder by trade and runs Marsh to Mansion, a high-end residential building company in Sydney. That experience has shaped Living Canvas from the beginning, giving the team a clear understanding of construction costs, sequencing, approvals and site conditions. His focus is making sure Living Canvas works as both a sustainable material and a construction system the industry can confidently use.

EVENT INFO

REFLECTIONS: A Regional Architecture Association Journey

DATES 17-19 September 2026

LOCATION Cobar NSW on Ngiyampaa Wangaaypuwan Country. The Friday main seminar day will be at Cobar Youth & Community Centre, 1 Harcourt St, Cobar NSW.

CPD 6 formal points available on the Friday