Thinking Allowed: Will Kirkman in conversation with Chris Brookman, Back to Earth

Chris Brookman has been quietly but powerfully shaping the way we think about sustainable building since the mid-90s. With a background in chemistry and a hands-on approach to natural materials like cob and lime, he brings a rare mix of science, craft and curiosity to everything he does. Since founding Back to Earth in 2007, he’s built a reputation for championing fabric-first design—delivering comfort, durability and low-energy performance without sacrificing aesthetics. He’s also built his own Passive House from scratch, sourcing every product and system himself. Chris is a gifted communicator. Whether through CPDs, site visits or hands-on courses like the Fibres Academy, he has a real knack for making complex ideas accessible—and for helping others see building in a completely new light. In this episode, we’ll explore how Chris’s unconventional, practical thinking has challenged norms, reshaped the market, and inspired a new generation of designers and builders