Hay Is for Horses, Straw Is for Houses

Tags:: Architecture; Technology; Culture; Straw Bale

In the Napa Valley, one sustainable residence elegantly demonstrates straw bale technology.

The blurring of boundaries between outside and inside encourages the Siegel/Subbotin family to enjoy the temperate climate year-round. “My favorite thing to do at the house is to sit in the dogtrot and read,” Kyra Subbotin says.

Photo by: JD Peterson

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Priscilla09.12.2009

What a great idea. Questions: --wouldn't the hay present a fire hazard? --how do you get mold-free hay? --what if you are allergic to hay?
Priscilla09.12.2009

I mean straw!
Michael10.26.2009

Yes, Straw not Hay. The idea is that once the bales are encased in plaster/stucco, there is not enough oxygen in the walls to feed a fire. If the straw remains dry it won't mold, at least that's the idea.
Ebony05.17.2010

I was wondering could you put normal plaster over the straw bales? Or would you need to put something over the bales first so it doesn't go moldy? If you can't put the plasta over it and have to use stucco or earth plasta is it hard to colour? or can you paint over it?
Eric06.09.2010

I really like this house, and it's not often to see a straw bale home with such contemporary style. From the photos, it seems there is no insulation in the roof, but I'm sure there must be something I just can't see. Can anyone explain that to me? @Ebony - As for plaster and straw bales, I believe the first step is to put a slip cover or primer before applying the plaster, which is usually some sort of earthen-mix. I'm sure that when mixing the plaster, any kinds of paints or dyes could be added, and I don't see why it couldn't later be painted over. But I'm no expert on the subject!
Ginny10.14.2010

It is a lovely house, indeed. And I do applaud the aesthetic sensibilities of the home's design. However, the idea of a single family indulging in the luxury of a second "weekend home" is completely at odds with any expressed passion for sustainability or minimizing damage to the environment. But at least it's only 1200 square foot..........
AK05.23.2011

I love the exterior color choices.. Would you mind sharing the brand and color of paint that was used?

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