What is straw bale construction?

Straw bale construction is a building practice that involves using bales of straw structurally, and/or, as insulation. Currently, there are over 10,000 straw bale buildings in California, despite the fact that the building code is only a few years old. Straw bale structures are incredibly resilient, regenerative, and cost effective.

Why use straw over more conventional materials? 

• Straw bale structures are durable, and highly resistant to fire and earthquakes. 

  • “Strawbale and Earth Projects Survive North Bay Wildfires”

  • UL Fire Test Video

• The straw bale aesthetic is flexible, imaginative, and original. 

• Using straw as a structural building material is carbon neutral. It is the process of using a waste product to build something new.

• It’s a way to save energy. Energy costs for climate control in straw bale structures can be reduced by 50% or more compared to that of typical construction techniques. 

• It provides opportunities for community building.

• It is a cost effective, cutting edge process.

• Load bearing method preferred as it reduces lumber usage.

• It encourages builders, owners, designers, and the general public to learn about and participate in this essential, environmentally beneficial practice.

ADUs are secondary dwellings also known as in-law units or granny flats.

They can incorporate various design styles, and they offer a resourceful and creative way to add living space to your property.

Benefits of ADUs:

• Easy way to achieve comfort in small spaces.

• Affordable way to build equity for homeowners

• Enjoy positive ROI for rental properties.

• Can function as student housing or assisted living space.

• Provides a way for extended family to stay together or close.

• Innovative way to address the affordable housing shortage.