Designed by Juri Troy Architects in 2022, the Straw Flea is a compact, 46-square-meter residential building located in the historic village of Murstetten, Austria. Situated within a castle park, the weekend house was built with a holistic and sustainable approach, utilizing local, natural materials and techniques to create a building with a minimal environmental footprint. The house's design balances modern sensibilities with respect for the site's rich history, sitting freely among the historical ruins and framing views of the landscape. The angular timber frame structure was constructed with wood from the client's own nearby forest, and the insulation is made from straw sourced from a local regional farm. The building is elevated off the ground by 15 screw foundations, a technique that minimizes ground disturbance. To align with the sustainable concept, the house generates its own heat and energy through a photovoltaic (PV) system installed on the roof. The interior of the single-bedroom home is entirely clad in pale wood, creating a warm, natural aesthetic. The living area, located in the southern and lower portion of the house, features large, fully openable glazing that connects the room to the garden and a small stream. The northern entrance leads to a small sanitary unit and a sleeping gallery. One of the most striking features is the floor-to-ceiling shelving that runs along the long sides of the interior, both exposing the timber structure and providing storage and seating. The Straw Flea project was completed in collaboration with Caravan Atelier. The house was recognized with several awards, including the Niederösterreichischer Holzbaupreis (Lower Austria Timber Construction Prize), the BIGSEE Wood Design Award, and the Design Educates Awards. Credits Architect: Juri Troy Architects Collaborating Studio: Caravan Atelier Client: Private Photographer: Juri Troy Architects