The positive aspects of straw bale building in terms of cost and labor are considerable. Are there other reasons to use this type of construction? Kanely points out that there is "a warm feeling to the whole house." That remark can be construed a couple of ways. The warmth of the house is enhanced by the 20-inch-thick walls, which provide considerable insulation. The construction technique of covering the inside walls with two coats of concrete followed by two coats of plaster also lends a rustic and homey feeling.