What makes your home a Green or Healthy Home?
This beautiful home was custom-built and designed by III AD of Minneapolis and was the first straw bale home constructed in Minnesota. Known for their superior efficiency, straw bale homes are remarkably durable and easy to maintain. Straw bale insulation is far superior to that of man-made resources, achieving R values as high as R-50; homes constructed with traditional methods are typically around R-25. The insulation is so strong, in fact, that the homeowners typically use only a wood-burning stove to heat the home in winter, even though the home has in-floor heat throughout both levels. A split A/C system can cool the home in Summer although the excellent tree coverage naturally shades the home and alleviates the need for A/C most days.Property Description
The property is slightly more than 9 acres, the home is nestled in the woods like a private retreat. The homeowner is a master cabinet-maker and builds his creations in the 1200-square foot barn at the front of the property. A 600-square foot loft is also in the barn, which provides ample storage space. There are also 16 raised-bed gardens with dedicated irrigation!
Neighborhood Description
The property is 9.17 acres, some of which are heavily wooded. The location is not far from town, although it seems a world away. The north branch of the Sunrise River flows through the rear of the property.Market Area
North Branch is a town in Chisago County, which is part of the 13-county metro Twin Cities. It is located slightly less than one hour north of Minneapolis/St. Paul.School District
North Branch school districtCommunity
Small town with modern conveniencesLocation of Home or Land
Rural
Air Quality
Agriculture in Area | yes |
Industry in Area | yes |
Air Pollution in Area | no |
Pesticide Free | yes |
Fragrance Free | yes |
Cleaned with Green Products | yes |
Interior Environment
Heating System | Hydronic Floor Heat (radiant) |
Cooling System | Conventional Forced Air - A/C |
Ventilation System | Heat Exchanger |
Whole House Filtration | Other |
Whole House Vacuum | no |
Energy & Water
Water System | Well |
Wastewater System | Septic System |
Construction Information
Construction Type | Straw bale |
Exterior Finish | Stucco Wood |
Interior Finish | Cement Plaster |
Interior Paint | Other |
Floor Material | Concrete |
Roof Material | Asphalt Composition Shingle |
Window Material | Wood Dual Glazed |
Insulation Material | Other |
Garage / Car Port
Garage / Carport | yes |
Garage Type | detached |
Number of Cars | 1 |
Garage Area | 1200 sqft |