First, WORD and CRBT would improve a few design elements to further enhance the affordability of future homes. These changes would include stacking the two bathrooms to decrease plumbing costs, using a lower-pitched roof to reduce costs for roofing materials and labor, and increasing the flexibility of the living space to meet the changing needs of a growing family. Second, CEN's Peterson stressed the importance of not tackling too many innovations and untested ideas on the first demonstration house. Plenty of complications arise when using alternative building methods for the first time without adding too many untried, unique features that can add substantial expense and delay project completion. Instead of trying every new method on one project, the developer can always make improvements on subsequent projects but will not have that opportunity if all of the available money and resources are exhausted on the first house.
Labor is another crucial issue.
Both developers emphasized the value of dependable labor as one of the most important lessons learned during construction of these homes. The most noteworthy lesson illustrated by these two projects is that alternative construction methods can help reduce both construction and ongoing housing costs. Mumma said the ongoing partnership between CRBT and WORD has led to other affordable construction projects in Missoula, not necessarily using straw bale construction but incorporating other affordable and energy-efficient aspects of the Northside Project. The two organizations plan to work on future projects together, including multifamily housing. Essene at WORD summed up the challenges that face affordable housing developers.