Jonathan and Sara Banister have put their 2018 straw‑bale home in Whenby, North Yorkshire on the market for a guide price of £2.75 million. Built on a 4.5‑acre site, the 4,338‑square‑foot house replaced a 1960s bungalow and showcases 4,338 square feet of natural insulation and lime‑plastered walls.
The Banisters sourced architectural support from Native Architects and completed the project after nearly two years of construction, using compacted straw as insulation and breathable lime plaster to allow moisture to evaporate.
Inside the property, a suite of energy‑saving systems—solar panels, triple‑glazed windows, underfloor heating and a mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery—work together to reduce heat loss and boost indoor comfort.
Outside, landscaped gardens, a rain‑fed natural pond and additional outbuildings such as a barn and studio create a self‑contained rural retreat while retaining the traditional charm of an English farmhouse.
Inspired by a conversation with Grand Designs presenter Kevin McCloud, the Banisters pursued an unconventional building approach that blends sustainable materials with modern amenities, a feat that has attracted buyers seeking eco‑friendly luxury.
The listing, managed by a local estate agent, will open for auction soon, with the final sale price dependent on the bids received.