The New Strawbale Home

Gibbs Smith Publishers, 2003. Hardcover. Like New/Fine . 8x0x10. Building with bales has begun to enter the mainstream, yet many people still wonder, "What does a straw bale house look like?" The New Straw Bale Home provides the answer, which is truly, "anything you want!" Innovative architects and owner builders are reinventing this century-old technology to create thick-walled modern houses of surpassing beauty. Their initial choice often stems from the desire to build an ecological and healthy home, and the result also saves on energy bills and encourages personal creativity. The New Straw Bale Home compiles floor plans and images from thirty cutting-edge homes across North America, from California to Quebec, New Mexico to New England. It showcases a spectrum of regional styles and personal aesthetic choices, including urban homes that enhance their neighborhoods, home office solutions, and country homes and hideaways. This practical book also discusses varying climate considerations and essential design details for problem-free construction and low maintenance. Chapters include information on budget considerations, code compliance, siting for energy efficiency, structural systems, and finishing touches. The New Straw Bale Home also offers valuable insights and hindsights of architects, contractors, and owner-builders, plus an extensive resource section.