straw bales

Looking at property prices and the fact that this author's earnings are erratic and not overwhelming (therefore, gee, banks don't like to lend us money - I can't - for once, say I blame them) and rentals are just not something the Island seems to do, I have a suspicion that we'll be buying a piece of bush and living in a caravan or shed for a fair while, while we get some kind of house built. While I am absolutely certain this will be moderately uncomfortable and cold, at least we don't have to do this with toddlers, as various friends have done. Also, looking at other various friends, I've learned - it might be slightly more expensive per square foot, but we're going to do this modular-fashion. Room by room if need be! I'm not living for years under a tarp because -- as is inevitable the grandiose plan is too darn expensive to finish. Of course I'd like to build a well-insulated (and preferably off grid) house that is ecologically sensible (not green to the fruitbat extreme ;-) but just made with local materials where possible and making sensible use of sun, wind and good insulation. And skylights! I must admit to curiousity about straw bales for building. Or any other bright, non-damp, warm and comfortable ideas...