NYC Gazette

New Windsor, NY - In a groundbreaking initiative, a structure named Fab Tree Hab is redefining sustainable architecture by incorporating approximately 70 living willow trees into its design. Created by the nonprofit organization Terreform ONE, led by Mitchell Joachim, Fab Tree Hab stands as a unique example of integrating living ecosystems into a multi-species environment.

Joachim shared that the concept behind Fab Tree Hab emerged from a vision to create truly sustainable living spaces, stating, "The Fab Tree Hab project... was born out of an eco-vision to create truly sustainable and biotech based living spaces." The project, which started in 2002 and is now located in New York, aims to engage biodiversity preservation, carbon sequestration, and renewable resources.

Highlighting the long-term commitment required for such a project, Joachim emphasized, "The actual time it would take to grow a Fab Tree Hab home would span years, if not decades, due to the nature of growing living trees into a livable structure."

Discussing the seasonal changes that Fab Tree Hab undergoes, Joachim explained, "In spring, it will come to life... gradually filling in the structure with lush greenery." He further noted that maintenance of the living structure is more akin to gardening than traditional building upkeep, involving pruning, guiding growth, and ensuring the health of the trees.

Fab Tree Hab has already attracted a diverse range of wildlife, with Joachim mentioning, "For now, many creatures have been curious about the space, including deer, raccoons, frogs, butterflies, bats, birds, spiders, wild turkeys, and rabbits." The structure also serves as a space for research and observation for scholars and students.

Looking towards the future, Joachim envisions a shift towards sustainable housing practices, stating, "In the near future we can grow homes made from local woody plants, instead of killing trees to sell lumber." He foresees a future where individuals are trained in arborsmithing and landscape ecology to integrate living trees into the built environment.

Fab Tree Hab stands as a testament to the innovative possibilities of sustainable architecture, offering a vision where human habitation coexists harmoniously with the natural world, benefiting both flora and fauna.