Designed in order to connect you with the environment, Strawbale Getaway from Creston, Colorado, is a welcoming retreat for family and friends. The owners wanted to respect the characteristics of this majestic site where it is located- at the cusp of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the San Luis Valley floor- throughout the project implementation and outcome. Thus, Gettliffe Architecture has designed the house as having walls made of straws and its spaces were connected by wide openings to the environment.
The house was built to fit discreetly into the surrounding environment, to harness as much heat and sunlight, being energetic efficient, sustainable and ecological. The technique of using straw bales, not only is not common, but it has tremendous advantages and distinct aesthetic qualities. Walls made of straws have a depth of 16 cm that creates a sense of safety and comfort, perfect for a vacation home. The straw bales are covered with plaster and stucco providing a very good insulation. Using straws has significantly reduced the necessary wood for construction. Although it has a classical concrete foundation, the inside of the house is filled with a deep sand bed of 2 feet.
The solar hydraulic panels and the passive solar heating make the floor radiate heat in winter and keep cool during the summer nights. Strawbale Getaway is an attraction for family, friends and guests, a place of refuge where you can disconnect from the bustle of the city, you can relax and enjoy nature.
