Designed by renowned local architect Drew Hubbell, these four strawbale buildings, laid out in a nautilus shape around a shared courtyard, house 25-45 nuns full-time and their spiritual leader, Thich Nhaht Hahn, when he visits. Utilizing super insulation, thermal mass, passive solar orientation and natural ventilation strategies, these buildings will provide year-round comfort to the Sisters, who lived in dilapidated shacks for many years. With rainwater catchment, PV, greywater systems, natural plasters, and reclaimed lumber, this project has a light footprint and is in tune with nature. Simple Construct was honored to be the straw bale, lath, and natural plaster specialists on this inspiring project.