The design doesn't allow for insulation, which is critical to making balloon-frame construction energy efficient in most climates.

For that price range, I can build an earthship completely off of the grid.

It's neat that people are looking at different building materials, though.

Fascinating article, Opal!

It'd be cool to see more on alternative building methods, such as the packed dirt that gets some use in the Southwest. While these aren't necessarily the way to go for city apartments, there are lots of interesting things to do with high-density small houses.