ENaBL
EVENSONG NATURAL BUILDING LAB,INC
Promoting Agriculture for the Built Environment
OUR VISION
EDUCATE
DISCOVER LOCALLY GROWN BUILDING MATERIALS AND HOW THEY CAN CREATE BEAUTIFUL, HEALTHY STRUCTURES WITH A REGIONAL SUPPLY CHAIN.
RESEARCH
MEASURE AND SHARE ACTUAL PERFORMANCE OF AGRI-BASED MATERIALS AND CONSTRUCTION PRINCIPLES IN OUR FOUR-SEASON CLIMATE.
PROMOTE
SHOWCASE THE BENEFITS, BEAUTY, AND VERSATILITY OF NATURAL MATERIALS AT OUR MARYLAND BASED LEARNING CAMPUS AND ONLINE RESOURCES.
We are committed to experiential learning. Our workshops foster meaningful interactions with products to promote bio-based materials. Photo of straw bale workshop courtesy of Sigi Koko.
OUR MISSION
At ENaBL, our mission is to lead the way in the education, research, and promotion of agriculturally grown building materials, emphasizing their vast benefits to health, the environment, and regional economies.
On our farm-based learning campus, we offer hands-on, experiential learning in a unique setting that allows visitors to engage directly with sustainable, farm-grown building products. With our collection of demonstration buildings, each featuring unique construction materials and techniques, our campus presents an immersive opportunity to explore the varied benefits of these natural materials, all conveniently gathered in one place. Through close monitoring and research, we will demonstrate how these buildings exemplify the principles of healthy, low-carbon, and green construction, demonstrating that sustainability can align with both human well-being and environmental stewardship.
We envision a future where thriving local economies revolve around natural building solutions, connecting farmers, agricultural educators, manufacturers, designers, contractors, homeowners, and other stakeholders. By fostering collaboration and embracing innovation, we are enhancing the accessibility and appeal of regionally grown building materials for everyone. Together, we are shaping a sustainable and connected future.
INSPIRE COLLABORATION
ARCHITECTS, DESIGNERS,
HOMEOWNERS
Discover the transformative potential of natural materials at the ENaBL campus, where we delve into their incredible benefits for both occupant's health and the environment. Immerse yourself in a hands-on exploration of these sustainable options, allowing you to unlock new possibilities for home projects. Engage with experts and fellow enthusiasts in meaningful discussions that empower to make informed choices whether building new or remodeling an existing home.
SPECIALIZED TRADES,
CONTRACTORS
Explore innovative ways to work with new materials through our engaging workshops and expert guest speakers. Our programs highlight familiar concepts while delving into the unique techniques these materials require. This approach not only enhances your skill set but also provides opportunities to create distinctive offerings. By embracing this expanding segment of natural materials, you can elevate your business and gain an edge in a competitive market.
FARMERS, INVESTORS,
MANUFACTURERS
Our workshops provide a platform for farmers to share best practices and foster collaboration, paving the way for cooperatives that drive investment in local processing and manufacturing facilities. By making regional raw materials readily available, we aim to inspire investment and development that encourages homeowners keep their dollars within the regional community.
LENDERS, INSURERS,
PERMITTING OFFICIALS
Building with natural materials is a practice that dates back to humanity's first shelters. While many of these products meet modern building codes, they often remain unfamiliar to underwriters compared to traditional stick-built homes that are so ubiquitous. Our mission is to demystify these materials, sharing research and studies that demonstrate their resilience, safety, and efficiency in both new home construction and remodeling projects.
EXPLORE THE ENaBL BLOG
OUR ALLIANCES
Down To Earth Design
CONTACT US OR VOLUNTEER
At ENaBL, we are excited to build a dynamic community of changemakers. While we await our formal designation to 501(c)(3) status in 2025, we invite you to follow our progress and explore ways to engage. Your time, expertise, or future support will help create lasting impact as we drive meaningful change together. Join us on this inspiring journey!