October 2025
This Project proposes to build a small strawbale house in Swindon for a local community organisation. We think it would be the first strawbale house to be built in Swindon.
We are seeking support from local government, a community organisation, a building firm, an architect and a farm, if we can bring these partners together to talk through some details, we can deliver a small building for the local community to use. Materials cost under £20,000.
Why a Strawbale House?
We know from what scientists tell us, that we need to reduce Co2 emissions to slow down global warming. One solution is to use low carbon building materials for consturction of houses. Strawbale homes are exactly a low carbon solution, the wood frame and strawbale insulation material hold carbon and lock it in for many years after construction. There are many other advantages to strawbale, find further information at Straw-bale Building UK.
Strawbale House Design and Project Plan
This proposal is for the construction of a small house (4m x 6m) using a free open source design with base material costs of just £4000. Main materials are 8 cubic metres of wood plus 160 straw bales and clay which we have plenty of around Swindon. It maybe, that following consultation with partners, we choose an alternative design.
What Have We Done?
Last year we wrote to 40+ building companies and architects with a view to strawbale construction, but building companies are reluctant to change from what they know. Some architects expressed interest and shared encouragement.
We have also been in touch with local Parish Councillors and Heidi Alexander MP and are waiting to talk with Swindon Council re support for the project.
Who Do We Need?
A Local Organisation / Charity / School etc.
An organisation with land suitable for a small house, together with an idea of why it would be useful, it could also be used as a workshop, for catering, shelter, education etc. It would be ideal if people from the organisation could get involved in the build.
A Local Farm
To provide strawbales and clay. Could be useful if a barn was made available for preparing the wood framing. Storage space is required for the straw bales until they are needed.
A Local Building Company
That can provide a workshop, tools and carpentry skills. We need power tools, saws, carpentry tools, shovels, buckets, a wheel barrow etc. There is no requirement for heavy machinery. A timber workshop is required to prepare the wood framing, though this could also be done in a barn on a farm, or even on site if the weather is good.
An Architect
With experience of legal requirements, documentation, planning and potentially project management etc.
Community Engagement
Community Engagement and participation. This is an ideal project for a group of local people to get involved, the work is easy and relatively safe, teaches integration, teamwork and skills.
Finance
We need finance for materials and running costs. Less than £20,000 is the estimated cost of materials 8 cubic metres of wood plus 160 straw bales, windows, doors, clay, transport, bricks, roofing material, screws, gloves, internal flooring, electrics, plumbing etc. plus there are management costs and we don’t yet know on what terms partners may be willing to contribute to the project.
Who is Leading this Project?
My name is Chris, I’m a local website designer with a passion for low carbon building and I also run this website, OpenSwindon.co.uk.
I have experience with a number of strawbale building projects, including wood frame construction, planning, strawbale infilling, compression and clay and lime rendering. It’s quite easy once you experience the process. Wood, straw and clay are safe, natural and friendly materials to work with.
Can You Help?
If you know of any local organisations that would like a house, helpful politicians, builders, architects, or farms that could get involved, please let us know. We are also seeking finance. Contact
Potential Sources of Support
Swindon Council
Wiltshire Council
wiltshirewildlife.org/community-fund
enterpriseworksswindon.co.uk / timber workshop / carpenters