Session · Carbon and electrification · Designers and consultants

From Straw Houses to Straw Buildings: Lessons from France

Martin Paquot, Topophile · September 22, 2026 · Chapter · PHMN (Passive House Minnesota)

France's century-old tradition of building with straw: its thermal performance, low-carbon potential, and use with wood and other natural materials, how French regulations enable it, and lessons for Passive House practice in the US.

Key points

• The thermal, health, and low-carbon benefits of straw construction.
• How straw works with wood and other natural materials in assemblies.
• How French regulations and professional rules support straw building.
• Lessons from France for affordable, local, Passive House-oriented buildings.

Topics: Embodied carbon, Insulation and assemblies