More than one way to build with straw

As new as it may seem, and as non-mainstream as it still is, straw bale building actually dates back to the early 20th century. And, believe it or not, so do compressed-straw panels.

Straw panels are, essentially, engineered wood minus the nasty formaldehyde found in adhesives. When compressed under high temperature, straw fibers bond together without the help of any adhesive, which means: that straw panels won't off-gas formaldehyde into your indoor environment.

Oh, and did we mention that straw panels are more moisture resistant than wood-based particle board? Which means they're highly mold resistant. They're also stronger and lighter than traditional engineered wood; they're made from a totally renewable waste product and they're really easy to build with.

Straw panels provide great sound insulation and--we love this--they're totally recyclable.

Straw panels can be used in the construction of furniture, cabinetry, countertops, roofs, walls, ceilings and substrate.

Have we piqued your curiosity? Read more about straw panels here.

Image Gavin Platt, www.sxc.hu