Light straw clay music/yoga/tea studio
We built this light straw clay studio for a celebrated musician on Pender Island. He was going for a Japanese feel with this structure while sticking to simple ecological materials.
We utilized a few pieces of driftwood to create curvilinear sculptural shapes and shelves in the walls.
A clay plaster was applied to the inside walls, featuring cattail seed fluff from the pond on which this studio is perched, and horse manure from their horses— in a paddock a few hundred feet away.
The round window was a good example of a simple execution of an often expensive window unit- the pane is a reused square double pane insert, with the circular shape framed on either side of the wall, built within a conventional rectilinear window framing assembly- the most particular process in fabricating the window was the steam-bent cedar strip trim on the inside and outside- lovingly crafted by the owner.
When it comes to constructing a building with a focus on natural and local while remaining durable; charred cedar, light straw clay, and clay plasters are excellent options.
Charred Cedar
Charred cedar, also known as shou sugi ban, is a traditional Japanese technique of charring wood to increase its durability and resistance to insects and decay. This method also renders the wood fire-resistant, making it an ideal choice for exterior cladding. Additionally, the charred surface creates a striking visual aesthetic, with the darkened wood showcasing a unique texture and depth.
Light Straw Clay
Light straw clay is a mixture of straw and clay slip. The bamboo horizontals placed at intervals within the light clay act as rebar would in concrete. The use of light straw clay as a building envelope offers several advantages.
Light straw clay boasts excellent thermal properties, providing natural insulation that regulates indoor temperatures and reduces heating requirements. Light straw clay is a breathable material, contributing to a healthy indoor environment by regulating humidity levels and preventing mould growth due to its hydrophilic and antimicrobial properties.
Clay Plasters
To finish the interior surfaces, clay plasters were applied. Clay plasters are generally made from a simple mixture of clay, fine sand, natural fibres, and other natural/ mineral additives. Not only do clay plasters contribute to a warm and inviting interior ambiance, but they also provide natural humidity regulation and air purification benefits and act as thermal mass.
Whether it's the sturdy beauty of cob, the insulative capacity of strawbales, or the versatility of cast-in-place hempcrete or light straw clay, a naturally built outbuilding built to suit your needs will be sure to perform efficiently, look beautiful and add to your property while respecting the planet. Contact us @ timber.trowel@gmail.com if you are interested in a natural outbuilding project!
