TIL: Moonwood

Also, wait until you see what's in the back of this van

Maruán Attia’s Cocoon Freelancer redefines mobile living with its design crafted entirely from untreated wood without the use of chemicals, glue, or plastics. Inspired by traditional alpine houses and Japanese temples, it utilizes moonwood—timber harvested according to lunar cycles during the coldest months—to ensure durability and resistance to insects and mold. This 100% recyclable material promotes a healthy indoor environment, free from harmful VOCs, and naturally breathable walls.

Weighing under 3.5 tons, the Freelancer is designed for mobility, drivable with a standard B license in Europe, making it ideal for freelancers and nomads seeking a lifestyle on the road. Its interior features a flexible bed-lounge-workspace, efficient storage, a Tiny Stove, gas kitchen, and stainless-steel water system, all emphasizing organic, plastic-free materials. Equipped with a solar-powered roof generating over 900W, it enables energy independence, while deliberate construction techniques, such as integrated dilatation joints and light safety vacuum glass, provide stability and insulation.

The units can be pre-ordered and expected delivery time is about 16 months.

For more information about the design and construction principles, AttiaDesign recommends these resources:

• Thoma.at, Holz100 Massive Wood House Systems in Austria

• Zinipi Modular Homes

• Weidlich Moon Wood Manufactory

• Studies by Ernst Zürcher at ETH Zurich.

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