First Rastra Block House in Eugene

Insulated concrete forms (ICFs) are an important addition to traditional frame construction offering a low maintenance, durable, and quiet enclosure. Rastra was an early entrant in the ICF market and contains 85% recycled styrofoam. Like the straw bale house (next door), Rastra was new to the city building department–which meant a steep learning curve for everyone. This home includes solar hot water, radiant floor heat, heat recovery ventilation, ACQ wood (a less toxic formula to the then prevalent CCA pressure treatment), and low VOC finishes. The house is designed for aging in place and is fully handicapped accessible, including an open shower for easy wheelchair use.

Designer: Carolyn Kranzler  // Completed: 1997