How does one retrofit or wrap an existing home with straw bale?
Does one remove the siding or place a waterproof barrier between the two surfaces and slip it together?
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Wrapping an existing home with straw bales would work, but there is much to consider. Yes, removing siding and adding a water proof membrane is a good first step, done properly that can also be an excellent air barrier. And you likely have an air space between the siding and the sheathing of the walls and it’s best not to risk any air flow within the middle of a wall.
The insulating value of a bale of hay is enough that you would not need to worry about having a vapo barrier on what USED to be the outside as it will be well within the 2 thirds rule of having two thirds of your insulation outside the vapor barrier.
Did you have a plan for the roofline? You would need to extend it to account for the greater width. You would also need a solid surface to bear the weight, will you be pouring a footing? And where are you located?
This in Maryland. I supposed one would need to extend the roof. It is a tri-level home and the topography is all over the place. I wonder if there are ways to get this done with little cost like volunteering the home for a workshop or something.