A spectacular cabin surrounded by nature in Texas — idealista/news

In recent years, cabin design has evolved towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly approaches. One notable trend is the use of natural materials such as cross-laminated timber (CLT) and cork cladding, which not only offer aesthetic benefits but also contribute to energy efficiency and the well-being of occupants.

These cabins not only seek to integrate harmoniously with their natural surroundings, but also to minimize their environmental impact. The choice of materials such as CLT wood and cork reflects a commitment to sustainability, while promoting a welcoming and healthy environment inside.A prominent example of this trend is the Cross Cabin, a project by Moontower Design Build in Austin, which incorporates these principles into its design.

Cross Cabin, a ‘Vegetable’ cabin in Texas

The study Moontower Design Buildbased in Texas, has designed a Unique cabin in Austin that embodies the philosophy of sustainable construction and biophilic designKnown as Cross Cabin, the 1000-square-foot dwelling sits on a sloping 8,000-square-foot lot, offering stunning views of the skyline through the treetops. The cabin reflects the studio’s commitment to using natural, low-impact materials, in line with the AIA’s Architecture and Design Materials Commitment.

Inspired by the book Food Rules by Michael Pollan, Promoting a diet based on real foods and mostly plants, the studio took a similar approach in selecting materials for the cabin. Priority was given to natural, minimally processed and plant-based materials, which not only respect the environment, but also enhance the sensory experience of the space.

The structure of the cabin is made of cross-laminated timber, a material that combines strength and sustainability. The façade is covered with cork, an insulating and renewable material that visually blends in with the natural environment. Looking at the cabin from a distance, the facade seems to merge with the bark of the surrounding trees.thanks to the fluctuating tones of the cork, ranging from silver to amber, brown and black. Over time, these shades will naturally weather, further accentuating the cabin’s connection to its surroundings.

Naturalistic interiors

The Cross Cabin design also includes a single-pitched roof which extends to provide shade to the bay windows, creating cosy nooks and a spacious porch. Inside, the cabin follows the same naturalistic design line, with a material palette that includes cross-laminated timber, solid sawn timber, plywood and heat-treated larch flooring. These interior materials have mostly been left raw or finished with linseed oil, preserving their natural character.

The use of expanded cork in the interiors, along with a recycled laminate paper called Richlite, reinforces the studio’s commitment to sustainability and occupant well-being. According to the studio, one of the most frequent comments about the cabin is how pleasant it is to be in. smell insidea quality attributed to the absence of synthetic sealants such as polyurethane.

In addition to its sensorial appeal, the cabin interacts harmoniously with natural light. Artificial lighting has been intentionally restricted, lor that makes the interior constantly in tune with the light conditions outside. The studio explains that, “if it’s sunny and there’s a lot of light outside, there’s also a lot of light inside; if it’s cloudy, the light is lower and dimmer; at dusk, the interior light takes on reddish and orange tones, and long shadows extend across the room.”