This is what it looks like
When you imagine houses made of straw, the fabulous Hobbit dwelling probably comes to mind. Today, many architectural firms use the design idea of this fairy tale character’s habitat in their eco-friendly building projects.
The house was built on a hillside and has a very original design. Its owner decided to start this project in the first place because he no longer wanted to pay a huge mortgage to build or buy his house. As you can see, the solution was found when the owner was inspired.
Eco-friendly home from ModCell
As a rule, structures from the material in question are small in size, shabby in appearance and definitely not like the miraculous creature shown in the photo.
This is a prefabricated structure built by ModCell, a British company that offers an innovative approach to building with traditional straw blocks. The house built by them is modern and quite spacious, not to mention quite attractive in appearance.
Dining room interior
It must be said that the buildings are stable and energy efficient. The company uses compacted, dried grass, which provides good insulation and stability. Blocks and wall systems are built with lumber filled with local straw or hemp.
As a result, very important qualities are achieved: air-tightness, anti-mold effect and resistance. Such construction goes practically without waste.
Modern dining room furniture
The outside of the dwelling is covered in rendering lime. In addition, the straw panels can be successfully used in the construction of any house. You can apply them without fear in the development of multiple levels. Modern open plan houses with large panoramic windows are built in this way. This is a simple example of what can be built with the material.
A straw bale dwelling for Carol Atkinson
Home in all its glory
This amazing, festive structure comes complete with solar panels and many other eco-features. Bales provide thermal insulation, and plastered walls on all sides provide fire safety. The absence of vermin in the house is one of the best proofs of air tightness. The interior looks charming and nice.
Roof design
One of the stages of construction
When this kind of construction was first conceived, it was expected to be shabby and unattractive, waiting to be replaced by something better. But as it turns out, now we can truly appreciate the straw huts due to their low cost and significant energy savings. Many designers began to recognize the benefits of such structures, and a number of similar projects were soon created.
Cutting bales
The program aims to develop energy-efficient, environmentally friendly structures and construction methods. Building a house out of straw blocks was the best solution. The material became more popular after people began to appreciate the benefits it offers.
This kind of housing is easier to build, the investment is minimal, offers more advantages in terms of energy savings. This is the first step toward a more harmonious future.
Ecomaterial construction is on the rise worldwide, and the results are already impressive. The value of the project also lies in the fact that many people are beginning to think about changing their usual way of life.
The first house made of dried grass in Rome
In Pakistan
As we mentioned earlier, the structures are extremely environmentally friendly and energy efficient. But there is also another valuable quality they can offer. These constructions are earthquake resistant. That’s why they are a wonderful alternative and a real salvation for some regions.
A group called PAKSBAB has already started a program in which durable buildings are created using local resources.
The construction of the century
Nice mansion
Man is always looking for alternative materials that can help improve his quality of life. Of particular concern today is the negative impact of building methods and materials used on the environment and human health. So the process of coming up with ideas to solve the problem is an important part of the work. Modern firms focus their efforts on the use of natural materials.
The construction team
For example, the amazingly beautiful and original building in the photo is made of natural raw materials. It is located on the top of the slope, which offers a wonderful panoramic view, and looks quite majestic. Its shape is rectangular, the design is generally simple. As you approach the building, it becomes noticeable that it is built of timber. But no one can see that it’s filled with dry grass.
The raw material provides insulation and allows the structure to be strong enough to hold up the roof. It took about 700 bales to build the living space and the workshop. The creation process itself is not difficult, but it takes time, so the more volunteers you have, the better. This is another great project that inspires new feats.
Another plan of action
After the work is done
Bale of straw is used only to fill the walls. The basis of the structure is created from wood, which is a successful and organic addition, will bring more heat to the building and lead to energy savings. The walls are best plastered. In terms of design, don’t expect a flawless look. It would be more of an organic interior with irregularities and unique details. You can try rounding off the protruding corners for added beauty.
It’s three times more effective
One of the construction steps
Walls can hold more than 1,000 kg/m2 of weight, and they are easy to build. The mixture used for stucco is made of earth, straws, sand and plants. A house of about 100 m2 can be built in 3-4 months, which in itself is already very attractive. Nowadays, such construction is gaining momentum, and you can find unusual mansions not only in rural areas, but also in cities.
Wow, these straw bale houses sound incredible! I’m curious to know more about their eco-friendly features. Can someone explain how these houses are built sustainably and what materials are used?