The Cross Cabin, designed by Moontower Design Build in Austin, Texas, represents a groundbreaking approach to sustainable architecture by eliminating heavily processed or synthesized materials. Completed in 2023, this “plant-based” cabin is a model of holistic design that adheres to the AIA Architecture and Design Materials Pledge. Inspired by Michael Pollan’s “Food Rules,” the cabin employs a carefully curated palette of plant-based materials such as wood,cork, hemp, and wood fiber. These materials, minimally processed to retain their natural qualities, are used throughout the structure, from the cross-laminated timber framing to the cork-clad facade. The result is an architectural experience that deeply engages the senses, with textures, colors, and even smells that evoke a profound connection to nature.

The cabin’s design emphasizes the sensory potential of natural materials, creating an environment that is as tactile and olfactory as it is visual. The cork cladding on the exterior, which changes color with weathering, resembles tree bark and provides a dynamic, natural aesthetic. Inside, the use of cross-laminated timber, solid-sawn lumber, and linseed oil finishes enhances the sensory experience, with each material chosen for its ability to engage touch, sight, and even smell. The absence of synthetic sealants, such as polyurethane, further underscores the cabin’s commitment to a natural living environment. This focus on minimally processed materials not only aligns with sustainable design principles but also offers inhabitants a unique, multi-sensory interaction with the space, making the Cross Cabin a standout example of innovative, nature-inspired architecture.