Though this client lived in Alaska during the designing and building process, Cheryl Heinrichs Architecture collaborated with her via fax and email to ensure her dreams were translated accurately into a natural-feeling, low-toxic home where she and her three children could live and grow. The result is a delightful, 2,600 square-foot straw bale home that embraces the environment as well as the family within. It is located in Higher Ground, an intentional community in Bend, Oregon.

From the natural cork and concrete floors to the hand-applied plaster walls, this home uses eco-friendly materials throughout. Recycled timbers are used within the structure, while straw bale exterior walls provide remarkable insulation value. Passive solar design, solar hot water feeding the in-floor radiant heat, and energy-efficient appliances keep energy consumption to a minimum. Formaldehyde-free cabinets and non-toxic finishes mean the owner and her children can breathe easy. Creative touches like the "draw bridge" entrance, angled dormers and curved openings add a whimsical nature to this Tranquil home, which earned PGE's Earth Advantage certification.