More homeowners are discovering the beauty, comfort and energy savings of new straw bale construction techniques.
In the classic story of the Three Little Pigs‚ a naive piglet decides to build his home out of straw, which soon gets the huff and puff treatment by a big bad wolf, resulting in the poor little pig's untimely end. But perhaps unbelievably to some, straw homes do really exist, and they are a lot safer and sturdier than their mythical counterparts -- not to mention beautiful and stylish. Many may wonder why a person would want to build a home made out of straw, but apart from providing a place to hide from the big bad wolf, they have some substantial benefits. They are undeniably green‚ as straw packed tightly in the walls helps to retain heat, keeping a home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, minimizing the home's carbon footprint. Straw is also a sustainable material; it is the leftover stalks from grain that would otherwise be burnt. Aside from the environmental issue, straw homes are also often beautiful structures crafted in such a way to reflect the thick curved walls of a primal era, and envelop the inhabitant in a special, unique retreat that personally expresses their respect and care for the environment.
Photos: Brett Weinstein/Realty Advocates
1. Straw Bale Home
in Oakland, CAThis unique, beautiful straw bale home in Oakland, California recently carried a $1.1 million price tag. According to the home's agent, Brett Weinstein, the home didn't sell, and the owners are currently renting it. "It wasn't due to any fault of the house," Weinstein told TDG. Lord knows the housing market has been brutal in the Golden State. The straw used in the home's walls insulates the property, and gives it the thick, strong appearance reminiscent of homes of a bygone era. The straw bales inside the walls absorb the sun when it's out and radiate heat when it's dark, giving the home a steady temperature and resulting in low energy costs. The straw is sandwiched between plaster, blocking out noise and providing the owner with a unique, tranquil haven in a big city.
Photo: JD Peterson
2. Straw Bale Home in Sonoma County, CA
This gorgeous home, perched on owner Henry Siegel's 2 1/2-acre leafy lot, offers panoramic views and cozy comfort. The motivation behind the design was environmental as well as practical. Finding that solar panels wouldn't be practical on this site, Siegel decided to insulate the walls with straw, knowing that it is also a sustainable product. Siegel works as an architect with San Francisco-based Siegel & Strain, and confesses his home acts as a relaxing getaway. He says the warm, rustic-chic abode merges well into the rural wine region of California. He also enjoys the fact that friends and family helped him build it, a group of them cutting and placing 90% of the bales in one day.
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