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The Straw HOUSE

The premiere community ecology & arts center in the making. 

Designed by Laguna Native,  an architectural eco-visionary, the one-of-a-kind structure is made out of reclaimed, natural, discarded, recycled materials, and the love and laughter of participants from all over the world.

About the Building 

This community space, sustainably built from straw bales, locally sourced clay, reused, and recycled materials demonstrates that it is possible to live symbiotically with the natural world through integrating indigenous wisdom with innovation. Our vision has endless possibilities, which involves hosting holistic workshops, exhibits, events, scientists and artists that foster a culture of love and respect for each other and our plant.  

This old-world adobe building approach reminds us there was a time when the world moved at a slower pace, and each piece of material was considered precious. As the rate of consumption exceeds the rate of nature's ability to produce to keep up with demands, this form of sustainable building becomes invaluable. Especially when you consider that straw-bale construction has proven to be 3x's more fire-resistant than other building methods.

The unorthodox zero-waste project serves as a slow motion eco-workshop that recognizes the inherent value of creation. Rejected or discarded materials are recycled, or reused, and "weeds" are recognized for their potent nutritional value - instead of poisoned! Our programs inspires people of all ages to get off of their phones, back into nature, while honing their creativity and learning many new and exciting skills. 


 

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Our Vision

The creation of this multi-faceted space is intended to benefit residents and guests to rejuvenate and replenish in a natural setting. The continuing of this dream revolves around  
completing the straw house gathering and event space. 
When completed we will continue to evolve providing affordable artist live-work spaces. We will construct a native butterfly breeding and release pavilion, an edible & medicinal plant garden. 
Additional structures for potters, glass blowers, wood workers, metal and stone sculptures will be created - and potentially - a small animal sanctuary of neighborhood-friendly creatures as part of OC's premiere animal rescue organization, Pacific Wildlife Project Emerald Sanctuary and featured installations from local artists.

Workshops

There will be numerous workshops and experiences that will be open to everyone to enhance connection & understanding with:
Creativity Experience

Painting, ceramics,

sculpture, music, dance, drawing, sustainable building instruction, circular design

and more!

Wellness Teachings

Natural

healing, meditation,

tai chi, yoga, herbal remedies, martial arts, healthy foods, raphology, acmos techniques, massage therapy, neurodiverse space, somatic healing and

much more!

Ecology Understanding 

Fire-resistant & native landscaping, composting, beekeeping, butterfly pavilion, permaculture, animal care & rehabilitation, food forests, zero waist living, and conservation projects

Essentially - a place for exciting ideas, meaningful experiences, deepening skillsets and the bonds of our community to thrive. 
 

The Team!

The Straw House has attracted participants from all over the world - Ethiopia, Japan, France & beyond. When operational, there is a close circle of dozens of friends, neighbors, artisans, musicians and craftspeople who come together to share their talent for the greater good and enrichment of the community.
 

We are seeking

Donors & Investors

We need to buy the land the building is on. We currently have over 80% secured, and are seeking others who share our vision who can help us fund the project. 

SUPPORT

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© 2025 Emerald Sanctuary

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