Archer’s loop window detail carved into thick Rammed Earth wall.

The CALX Cabin

A Modern Retreat Crafted From Stabilized Rammed Earth

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

2021

Most cabins promise peace but miss the deeper sense of permanence. We wanted a retreat where our family could slow down and feel grounded - a place as solid and enduring as the limestone hills of Eureka Springs, Arkansas.

That vision became the CALX Cabin, a modern hideaway built with stabilized, insulated Rammed Earth. Using native limestone subsoil, we created 18-inch-thick walls in a soft, off-white tone. Each wall is thermally broken with insulation, treated with a hydrophobic additive, and finished with a breathable sealer - designed to stand for generations.

Key design details make CALX special:

  • Archer’s loops - beveled window surrounds inspired by historic defense architecture, now reframed to bring in light and open panoramic views.

  • Integrated pathway lighting inside and out: soft, recessed fixtures built directly into the Earth walls, with exterior lights set to an automatic sunset sensor to gently illuminate the perimeter each evening.

  • Built-in cabinetry, a discreet wall safe, and quartz-lined “geode” cracks - whimsical touches that turn walls into storytelling surfaces.

  • Every lift of soil was compacted with care, producing walls that breathe, regulate humidity, and create a quiet, reassuring solidity you won’t find in thin stick framing.

Living in the CALX Cabin is a visceral experience. The air feels clean, the acoustics are hushed, temperatures remain steady, and the structure itself inspires calm. It’s a reminder: build once, build for life - and leave something enduring for future generations.

  • Cozy seating area framed by thick Rammed Earth walls and large windows.
  • Wide view of living room highlighting 18-inch Rammed Earth walls and outdoor scenery.
  • Warm stone tones of Rammed Earth wall surrounding modern appliances.
  • Recessed pathway lighting illuminating Rammed Earth kitchen wall.
  • Bedroom featuring off-white Rammed Earth walls and natural linen bedding.
  • Morning sunlight casting shadows across textured Rammed Earth bedroom wall.
  • Window set within thick Rammed Earth wall in CALX Cabin bedroom.
  • Subtle lift lines in Rammed Earth wall behind vanity.
  • Bathroom with clean white fixtures and built in cabinetry framed by Rammed Earth walls.
  • Natural light filtering through archer’s loop window in bathroom.
  • Concrete sink in the bathroom next to a rammed earth wall
  • Minimalist bathroom showing smooth stabilized Rammed Earth wall.
  • Kid’s bedroom with playful décor against solid Rammed Earth walls.
  • Shelving recessed into Rammed Earth wall of child’s room.
  • Hallway lined with built-in bookshelf carved into Rammed Earth wall.
  • Quartz-lined geode detail sparkling in CALX Cabin children’s room wall.
  • Sunset light highlighting CALX Cabin’s Rammed Earth exterior walls.
  • Wide shot of CALX Cabin nestled among trees with Rammed Earth walls.
  • Off-white Rammed Earth exterior walls paired with dark metal trim.
  • Crew compacting soil lifts to form CALX Cabin Rammed Earth wall.
  • Forms set up for stabilized Rammed Earth wall construction.
  • Early construction phase of CALX Cabin with Rammed Earth walls rising.

Let’s Build Something Solid

A great project starts with a good plan. Fill out the form below and let’s talk about how Rammed Earth can give your space strength, character, and lasting beauty.