John Hutton is the founder and lead designer of Next Genesis Design, where he blends extensive expertise in design and construction with a passion for non-toxic, high-performance building solutions. 

His journey into natural building began in 2006 during his early studies in architecture when he recognized the urgent need for healthier alternatives to the toxic materials prevalent in the construction industry.

​After earning his Master of Architecture degree from the University of Oregon in 2011, John worked on commercial and institutional development projects. While this experience provided valuable insight into large-scale project design and execution, he was struck by the industry's lack of awareness regarding material toxicity and its impact on human health. Determined to create better solutions, he made a bold decision to leave the corporate world and fully dedicate himself to integrating natural materials with standardized construction practices. His hands-on training began in Southern Oregon, where he helped construct a two-story earthen home, laying the foundation for his lifelong commitment to sustainable design and construction.

​Over the next decade, John immersed himself in the world of natural building, learning directly from leading professionals in the field. He gained extensive experience designing and constructing straw bale, light straw clay, timber frame, and earthen buildings.

​In 2018, he founded Next Genesis Design with the goal of integrating natural materials into modern, high-performance homes. That same year, he discovered hempcrete—a material he found to be one of the most versatile and effective solutions for creating durable, healthy, and energy-efficient structures.

​Since then, John has continued to innovate and refine hempcrete building systems, developing high-performance details and collaborating on projects across the West Coast. With a unique combination of design expertise, technical detailing, and hands-on construction experience, he specializes in bridging natural wall systems with conventional building methods. Above all, he is passionate about working with people to bring their visions to life, creating homes that align with their values, enhance their well-being, and set a new standard for sustainable design.