Is it possible to build a durable house out of straw? These owners assure you that it is

Straw-bale homes are still a relative rarity in Australia, but considering their numerous benefits, it’s a wonder there aren’t more of them.

Perhaps their biggest claim to fame is their outstanding insulation performance.

Teresa and Henry Nugent thoroughly researched straw-bale construction before building their Bywong home, Terrenlea, this week’s feature property.

Teresa says the initial attraction of straw-bale construction was that the homes are sustainable, solid and long-lasting.

“Plus, we love the look that has been achieved at Terrenlea,” she says. “Who can resist its lovely, gently curving walls and large windowsills to sit on and take in the views?

“The home has a warm, relaxed and inviting feel; visitors say how peaceful and welcoming it is – they never want to leave.”

Teresa says the house’s excellent insulation properties have been well tested and provide very stable internal temperatures throughout the year.

“Double-glazed windows and thick walls also ensure it is very quiet,” she says.

Environmental sensitivity was equally considered in the home’s interior fittings and finishes.

“Recycled timber from Thor’s Hammer has been used for beautiful cabinetry in the kitchen, laundry and bathrooms, and above the fireplace,” Teresa says.

“We also incorporated natural cork tiling and deliberately steered away from using MDF [engineered wood] or rainforest origin timbers.”

For those who like the idea, straw bale homes are also highly fire resistant. The tightly packed straw is covered with thick clay and render, reinforced with fibreglass matting.

And Terrenlea is further protected from potential bushfire by a comprehensive sprinkler system.

Straw poll

Big picture

Straw bales provide high levels of insulation efficiency for year-round comfort, reducing heating and cooling costs. Straw is a cost-effective building material, but can require more labour in construction.

Fire resistant

It seems counter-intuitive, but using tightly packed straw bales in properly constructed walls can restrict the flow of oxygen, starving a potential fire of its fuel. Preparation during building is key.

Healthy alternative

Straw is a natural material without the potentially toxic outgassing of many manufactured materials. Check the source of the straw for use of fertilisers and pesticides.

Feature Property

Bywong

28 Hideaway Place

Agent: Ray White Bungendore, Ellie Merriman 0402 117 877

$1,830,000-$1,880,000

28 Hideaway Place, Bywong NSW 2621

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It would take some powerful huffing and puffing to disturb the composure of this remarkable straw bale house in the Canberra neighbour of Bywong, NSW.

Typically, the tightly packed bales used in Australian residential building can each weigh up to 16 kilograms. They provide significant strength, fire resistance and – most importantly – insulation.

The upside of maximum insulation is, of course, optimum comfort and reduced running costs.

Terrenlea sits on a generous 1.32 hectares and offers the ultimate in country living on the appropriately named Hideaway Place.

Straw-bale construction ensures this home is cool and comfortable in summer, and warm and cosy in winter.

The home’s solar-passive design is enhanced by a northerly orientation, ensuring an abundance of natural light and warmth during the cooler months.

Other features include a lime-based external render, a clay-based interior and double glazing.

Thje interior highlights include the wide use of Thor’s Hammer recycled timber and a fireplace for extra comfort.

The kitchen is centrally positioned and fitted with brand appliances and a huge walk-in pantry. It sits next to the family room, which opens onto a large outdoor area with a barbecue and seating.

The main-bedroom suite is spacious with a large, bespoke walk-in wardrobe and an en suite with a claw-foot bath.

There are two further bedrooms down here, and one upstairs with views to the Brindabellas.

Outside there is a separate studio with its own kitchenette amid organic gardens.

Or try these other listings in the area

$2,000,000

222 Doust Road, Bywong NSW 2621

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Agent: PRDnationwide Bungendore, Dan Woodford 0414 264 441

$1,950,000 - $2,050,000

1289 Bungendore Road, Bywong NSW 2621

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Agent: Belle Property Queanbeyan, Ryan Broadhurt 0417 513 896

$1,470,000

74 Summerhill Road, Bywong NSW 2621

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Agent: PRDnationwide Bungendore, Ben Lee 0402 426 925