Visit some good friends of Blue Rock Station...

Building the “Llama Lounge” - 2008

We have built (and continue to build) a number of straw bale buildings at Blue Rock Station.  Each time we try to give them a bit of a “twist.”

This “llama lounge” was designed by our French intern (a civil engineer student from INSA in Toulouse) Nans THOMASSY.  

Our specifications were pretty basic.  This was a shading area for the llamas in the summer field.  There was no need for warmth in the winter - as we do not use this field in the winter.  But it should provide ample shade, a way to catch water, and good access to breezes.  We also wanted it simple enough that a group of novice straw bale builders could construct it in about 4 days.  Oh yeah, we also wanted to use materials that we had lying around here at Blue Rock Station.

With these specifications in mind, Nans added a few of his own.  He wanted it to be beautiful as well as functional.  

  The result was the “llama lounge” - which rests upon a rammed earth “tire” foundation.  The southern wall dips lower, providing maximum shade.  The open east/west walls ensure a constant breeze.

Probably the most difficult part of the project was the curved north wall that continues to form the roof.  The exterior wall is covered in slate - making for a rather demanding transition.  

The construction process...

• The Tire Foundation
• Waterproofing (keeping its feet dry)
• Framing the Structure
• Building the Straw Bale Walls
• Earth Plasters
• The Roof
• The Finish Work
• The water catch system

Nans interviewed by the Columbus Dispatch

Let the form of an object be what it may - light, shade, and perspective will always make it beautiful.

 -  John Constable

Our Straw Bale Llama Lounge (drag curser across to see 360° image)