STRAW BALE INSULATED HOUSE:
The owners desired a cost effective, energy efficient home that would embrace the beauty of the wooded rural site and embody their Mexican heritage.

Straw bale construction was used for its natural beauty; the depth of the windows (used as window seats), the plaster finish, and the natural cooling and high insulating properties. The process of building a straw bale home is similar to an Amish barn raising, where friends, family and straw bale enthusiast come together to stack bales and apply earth plaster, while enjoying the camaraderie of working together.

The plan is efficiently arranged to maximize space, while taking advantage of views and solar orientation.

Natural Building Design Consultant; Mark Hoberecht, Harvestbuild Associates