Down the road from us is a house made from strawbales, 2 story really nice thick walls. Outside covered with stucco. He says it is very cool in summer and warm in the winter. If I didn't see them building it from strawbales last summer you would never know! Bales are supposed to be +40 insulation value. As long as bales kept dry they are good for home building. This website RedFeather builds strawbale homes on Indian reservations. https://www.redfeather.org
They really are fantastic! Our plans have been done for awhile. Lots of them around us.