The Houses Made From Straw
“Britain’s first council houses made out of straw are to be built in a bid to cut costs and energy consumption. The six semi-detached homes will be built from 500 bales but will be indistinguishable from normal homes because of their lime-washed walls. At $79,000, the three-bed properties will cost $26,000 less to build than a conventional house. They are being built as an ‘experiment’ by North Kesteven County Council, Lincs., to cut construction costs and meet energy consumption targets. Marion Brighton, leader of the council, said straw with its exceptional heating properties had massive potential. She said: ‘It’s all about affordability, sustainability and cutting down energy consumption. It’s the first time it has ever been tried in the UK.” w/ photos
