Athena Swentzell Steen

"The first architects, builders, and homeowners to embrace the straw bale renaissance were excited by the energy conservation, resource recycling, and affordability of this rediscovered building material. As their movement evolved, however, it became apparent that the elegant simplicity of straw had also enabled its practitioners to tap into an undiscovered creative aquifer." "Athena and Bill Steen, co-authors of The Straw Bale House (Chelsea Green,...

A house made out of straw? Yes! Whether you build an entire house or something more modest--a home office or studio, a retreat cabin or guest cottage--plastered straw bale construction is an exceptionally durable and inexpensive option. What's more, it's fun, because the technique is easy to learn and easy to do yourself. And the resulting living spaces are unusually quiet and comfortable.