Award-winning Straw Bale House in Birštonas

The single-family house overlooks the Nemunas River in Lithuania, fitting into a small site while meeting the needs of both owner and town. Its design balances traditional scenery of Bištonas with sustainable, contemporary solutions.

Key elements include eco-friendliness without sacrificing modern appearance, combining traditional and modern materials, and a carefully designed process that sped up construction. The house emphasizes energy efficiency, comfort, and environmental contribution through material choices and architectural design.

The main floor is upstairs to maximize river views, with downstairs designated for utilities, storage, and guests. Outdoor stairs enhance mobility.

Innovative, eco-friendly materials suitable for Lithuania include prefabricated straw panels, grass fiber insulation, clay plaster, and a high-efficiency heat pump. The southern roof is covered with solar tiles, while the northern side features traditional Lithuanian thatching for insulation and acoustics, adding unique local character.

Internally, clay plaster buffers temperature and humidity, reducing reliance on mechanical systems and improving indoor air quality by reducing dust and allergens.

Originally designed for energy class A+, the project was upgraded to Lithuania’s top standard, A++, with a heating energy use of 24.89 kWh/m2*year. It won the 2024 Active House Award, showcasing innovation, sustainability, and architectural harmony.

This project exemplifies how modern technology and traditional materials can create a healthy, eco-friendly home that respects local culture and environment, setting a benchmark in sustainable architecture.

The Active House Awards 2024 in the Principal Category was won, serving as a testament to dedication to innovation, sustainability, and excellence in construction. The project in Birštonas stands as a prime example of how cutting-edge technology can be integrated with traditional materials to create a home that prioritizes human well-being, environmental stewardship, and architectural harmony.