It has been more than a year since we completed the “Natural Nest” project. Time flies when you’re a pigeon!

Let’s take a quick look back: we refurbished a studio apartment on the ground floor of our Happy Pigeons building using mostly natural materials. Our goal was to experiment with sustainable, natural materials—not just to reduce our environmental footprint but also to improve the quality of living.

Before the refurbishment, the apartment felt cold (especially on the feet), despite the previous renter installing three layers of carpet. The air was also musty and stuffy, making the space feel uncomfortable. We hoped that materials like clay, limestone, and hemp would help regulate both humidity and temperature, creating a healthier and more comfortable environment. Read the full story of the project here.

Sustainable home renovation with healthy materials in Berlin — Hemp insulation in the “Natural Nest”

But did it actually work?

To find out, we checked in with our member Ege, who has been living in the Natural Nest for over a year now. We were eager to hear whether he could really feel a difference compared to a traditional apartment. Is living in a space with natural materials truly better? Let’s hear what he has to say.

Interview with Ege: Living in the Natural Nest

Us: Hey Ege! You’ve been living in the Natural Nest for over a year now. How’s it been?

Ege: Hey guys! Honestly, really good. From the start, I noticed that the space just feels… comfortable. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I can definitely tell a difference from other apartments I’ve lived in.

Us: That’s great to hear! What kind of differences do you notice the most?

Ege: The air, for sure. It never feels stuffy, and I don’t get that dry or humid feeling I used to have in other places. I don’t even think about it anymore—it just feels natural, which is probably the best sign that it works.

Us: That’s exactly what we were hoping for! What about the temperature? Winters here can be rough.

Ege: That’s another big one. I was surprised at how well it holds heat in winter. I don’t have to crank up the heating like I did in my previous apartments. Even with minimal heating, it stays cozy. And in the summer, it doesn’t get too hot either—it stays comfortable without needing to keep a fan on all day.

Us: That’s amazing! So, would you say living in a space with mostly natural materials has made a difference in your daily life?

Ege: Yeah, for sure. It’s not something I consciously think about every day, but I just feel comfortable here. The space feels calm, and I think that really helps me relax and unwind.

Us: That’s great to hear! Also, we have to say—the way you’ve decorated the place looks fantastic.

Ege: Thanks! I think the natural materials make it easy. The textures and colors feel warm and inviting, so the whole space just comes together naturally. I didn’t have to overthink it too much.

Us: Love that! Okay, last question—would you recommend this kind of refurbishment to others?

Ege: Definitely. If you have the option to use natural materials, go for it. It’s not just about how it looks; it actually changes how a place feels to live in. I’d definitely choose this over a standard apartment again.

Us: That’s the best feedback we could hope for! Thanks so much for sharing, Ege. We’re really happy you love your Natural Nest!

Ege: Thanks, guys! You’re always welcome to stop by!