Building a Foundation of Pragmatic Architectural Theory to Support More Sustainable or Regenerative Straw Bale Building and Code Adoption

Abstract

This article proposes an alternative theoretical framework for architectural design and associated land use practices based on pragmatism and a “spectrum of sustainability”. The current normative and dominant discourses of environmental efficiency contribute to addressing the need to lower carbon emissions; however, the academic literature tends to overlook qualitative research of more sustainable natural building methods such as those using straw insulation and natural lime plasters. Given that this less conventional architectural design and building method has been shown to sequester carbon, why hasn’t straw bale building received more attention in the sustainable architecture discourse? A study of challenges and misperceptions regarding straw bale residential building lends insight to the need to take a pragmatic approach to more affordable residential development. Most building certification programs primarily target improved energy efficiency, yet the Living Building Challenge certification begins to evaluate the oft overlooked social factors and the biophilic environment. A brief recapitulation of quantitative analysis of embodied CO 2 levels/dwelling associated with self-help affordable housing programs addresses the immediate need to assess rising housing costs. An additional qualitative study using Architectural Education Strategies (AES) of the two existing straw bale buildings in Ogden, Utah involves evaluation of their educational values and illustrates a possible shift toward pragmatism in architecture. The qualitative analysis underscores the importance to salvage, reuse, and recycle building materials as a pragmatic way to reduce both CO 2 emissions and building costs. Review of building code adoption offers further understanding of the barriers to broader acceptance of this highly sustainable building method.