World treehouse list - USA

2008

Preston Joe Young
Friendship, TN, USA
21 March 2008

Just finished a small treehouse complete with fire bell, 8ft slide and two fully enclosed 5x5 rooms.

Greg
Mount Kisco, NY, USA
6 February 2008

So I decide to build this treehouse. I make it about let say 25 feet in the air, possibly 20 feet.it looked sturdy, it felt sturdy, and it was well put together. One time a asked my friend to install the planks of wood that go out from the tree to the corner of the treehouse. He decided to save $45 and use old wood. So here we are one afternoon when the thing begins to start to twist and the floor planks began to buckle. I look out the window and see that nothing is wrong. So as I walk back the treehouse really began to twist I decided it's time to get out, I make a run for the door... but the shifting of the wood caused it to lock in place so we were trapped. It was going to fall soon so we looked for a way out. There was none. Half the floor was splintered and a quarter of the floor was missing. One of my three friends up there decided to jump and he twisted his ankle. The thing suddenly fell 20 or so feet to the ground. I got 7 staples in my head, broke my wrist and twisted my ankle. It was actually extremely funny. There goes like $400 in wood and building supplies.

NOW REMEMBER! ONLY USE GOOD WOOD WHILE MAKING A TREEHOUSE. IT MAY SEEM LIKE A GOOD IDEA AT FIRST... BUT TRUST ME... ITS NOT

Armand Coniglio
Glen Carbon, IL, USA
27 January 2008

My tree house is 12 meters (40 feet) above the ground in a 55 foot tall Pin Oak. The tree house is a perfect square and measures 10 feet across. A pulley system winds up a small cart which acts as an elevator and takes people to the tree house in 15 seconds. It really isn't a tree house but more of a observation deck, as it is just a wooden platform with a guide fence to keep people from falling out. It provides a great view into 4 towns, as the tree and the surrounding area is located on a bluff and has many hills. The observation deck/tree house actually doesn't exert that much weight onto the tree as a set of wires and poles help support the weight.

Frank Neylon
Chelmsford, MA, USA
20 January 2008

Our tree house, like many others, started as a lighthearted promise to my then 5 year old son Joey in 2004. We were moving to a new house and in order to entice him to make the move I promised that I would build him a tree house at our new house. He didn't forget my promise. I had never built anything significant in my life so I was very nervous going into this and bought a book called "Tree houses you can actually build" by some guy named Stiles if I remember correctly. That was a great resource and got the project started. Over the course of the winter in 2004 Joey and I sat down and drew up the rough plans to build this thing around an old Oak tree that forked into 2 vertical trunks. The following Spring we began construction using the joists and decking I recycled from a deck I had to tear off our new house. What began as a plan for an 8' x 8' TH turned into a 16' x 12' structure since we had some long pieces of used joists left over. The deck on the front was an afterthought but I think it would have looked funny without it.

Phil Mullins
Bannockburn, IL, USA
16 January 2008

Our tree house is based on a Pete Nelson design utilizing a large ash tree and support posts in a wooded area adjacent to our home. We built a 16'x24' deck 12' high and placed a miniature version of our home all in cedar in the center of the deck. The tree house has a ceiling fan, skylight, phone, cable and internet access and an L shaped staircase. It has been a wonderful location for our entire family to have enjoyable activities and relaxation - while serving as a unique conversation piece for our property.

2007

Vincent Fry
NJ, USA
14 December 2007

I had my friend build this for my kids ages 2,5,9,15 (thanks Pete). We made some mods from the plans.

[Ed: This plan is based on the Kauri treehouse at Treehouse Guides.]

Pete
Southern Indiana, USA
16feet.blogspot.com
1 November 2007

I've slowly been building a 16' X 8' suspended treehouse in southern Indiana. The structure is hanging about 16 feet off the ground in a large 5 trunk sycamore tree.

Moving around in the treehouse is similar to being on a boat, there's enough movement to make the non-initiated a bit sea-sick, especially after several hours.

There are quite a few pictures on the build blog (link above). I'm hoping to add a stove and running water on the next trip.

Craig Maclean
Big Rapids, MI, USA
5 September 2007

The steel "T-Bar" is 2" x 4" x 3/8" rectangular steel tube welded across a 12" steel cap channel. We hoisted it into place with a lever puller and secured it to the tree with 5/8" x 12" lag bolts (originally 4 bolts, then added 3 more). Pre-drilling the holes and coating the bolts with pruning tar made the process much easier.

The deck or base platform is secured to the two trees opposite the t-bar (with 8 more 12" lags). The unique design allows the trees to bend and blow independently of each other while the treehouse "floats" or slides on the t-bar support. A replaceable hardwood "wear pad" is installed where each joist slides on the t-bar. Steel tabs at each end of the tee keep everything lined up. On a good day, the t-bar can slide 2" or more in each direction....... but the structure is not affected and/or ripped apart. So far, the whole idea is working exactly as planned.

Interior walls fully enclose the "tree chimney", keep the weather out, and allow for plenty of tree growth and movement. The trusses are home made and incorporate a 4'x8' "loft" in the rafters. The roof is galvanized steel panel which sounds great on a rainy day.

The flooring is rough milled oak harvested from one of our own trees. The balance of materials is right off the shelf at the local home center. In Spring 2008 we'll put a wood preservative on the exterior, hang a front door, and let the boys "customize" it in their own special way.

The boys are pushing for phone and power....... but I don't think that will get past The Board of Directors. A battery powered LED lantern should do for now.

Erik D Johnston
NJ, USA

28 August 2007

When I originally chose the tree for the project I wanted the treehouse to be in a location that would allow my wife and I to see the treehouse through our kitchen and family room windows. We have three young children so safety was the main concern. Well I had no idea how big a 7'x8' treehouse with an 8' tall roof line really was (and a 3'x8' deck)! What ended up happening was the treehouse is beautifully framed inside the glass slider doors at the back of our family room and it has actually become a focal point when guests come to visit... it sort of jumps out at you framed like that.

Since I submitted those photos, I finished off the house with a 45 degree angle staircase using three rows of ¾ hemp rope as the hand rails (the kids love it and our golden retriever thinks I built them for him!). I also built very simple screen windows to keep out the mosquitoes.

As I've literally never built so much as a bird feeder before this treehouse, I am very proud and inspired by this project. I also realized what people meant when they tell you that a successful project is all about having a good plan and the right tools. The whole project including the extra tools I had to buy and the Atlantic White Cedar lap siding ran about $850 (probably would be significantly less if I did it a second time as I wasted materials due to my lack of experience).

Jan Doble
Woodbridge, Virginia, USA
4 August 2007

After several months of battling our Homeowners Association, they decided to proceed with a declaration of war by presenting us with legal documents to appear in court. We immediately contacted a wonderful family with 5 children, who came and disassembled the wonderful treehouse, and reassembled it in their own backyard.

Homeowners Associations can make their own rules for any reason at any time. There is no court high enough to over-power their decisions... and they can make their own rules as they go. That is the final tale of the infamous Doble Treehouse War story from 1997.

[Ed: Read the original treehouse list entry from July 1998.]

David Fernandes - Lane's treehouse
Elsberry, MO
25 June 2007

This is a treehouse that I built for my sons. I built this treehouse for them because I never had one when I was young and always wanted one. Most of the material was from friends, one had a old cedar fences and one had a old decks. The shape is a octagon radiating out from the center of a oak tree. The size of the inside is 6 feet from the tree with a 2 foot deck all the way around. The roof is a corrugated tin that I painted Hunter Green because it was old rusted metal The roof also completely covers the house and the deck. The treehouse has one door and three windows.

Troy Hunter
Northern California

16 Jan 2007

I have been 4 years and three summers devoted to building a treehouse off the grid in Northern California, in a very rural mountain area.

I'm utilizing a "downed" but alive oak tree. It is still alive. I would like to know about other treehouses integrated in jungle or forests around the world. It is my hope that many people experience less consumerism and more organic living which comes from the treehouse, using recycled lumber and building materials. Thank you for any information on world treehouses you can provide.

Kevin Mullin
Inchelium, WA, USA

12 January 2007

My family built a treehouse on my Mom's property in Inchelium, WA near Lake Roosevelt. Eventually it will be a treehouse complex that will include a rope and plank bridge connecting the main treehouse to a launch platform for a 90' zip-line. Right now the launch platform and the deck of the main house are complete. The treehouse is built with all recycled, reclaimed and locally acquired natural materials (logs and branches). I also bought a window, door and sheet metal roofing from a recycling center near my house and hauled them up to Inchelium. Build costs are less than $400. Expected completion date is Summer 2007.

2006

Everett Peacock
Maui, HI, USA

3 October 2006

I have a two story treehouse, in a small Banyan tree on the northern coast of Maui. Plans are forming now for a third level in which to support a wind turbine.

Henry Quintero
St Granada Hills, CA, USA
18 September 2006

My son Henry Jr. visited Colombia, South America July 2006, upon his arrival he wanted to build his own tree house in front of our rented house, which by the way is located on a major street of the City. He visited several farms in South America, place where he got the idea of a tree house. He is 5yrs old and attends Granada Elementary. This project became a family project and I think the 1st grade teacher may bring the class over to see this project. We will keep you informed.

Patrick Bikebordr11
Upstate NY, USA
13 September 2006

My cousin and I have, over the summer, been building a triangular (12 x 12 x 6) treehouse about 9 feet off the ground. It's really cool, but at the moment it still needs a third wall and waterproofing. A tip for future builders: if you're building more than 5 ft high, use a ladder.

At the moment the future plans are better than the real thing, but it'll be done before winter!

N.T. McLean
E.Dover, Vermont, USA
25 August 2006

My partner and I started a "weekend tree house" and three years later it's almost complete. Our tree room has a sleeping loft, a window seat, six windows, two clear story windows, two porches, and a terrific rope swing. Someday we would like to add a bridge walk to the next set of trees and to build a reading/meditation platform. The views from all windows are lovely, deep hemlock/birch woods, a meadow, our pond, and the surrounding ridge line which changes with every season. We're now contemplating building a couple more Tree rooms for visiting writers/ artists.

Cary
Jackson, New Jersey, USA
13 July 2006

Decided to build treehouse for my sons, using left over materials from deck project. Treehouse porch has Trex surface, inside is regular wood surface, house itself has two windows and one door. There are steps attached to the tree which leads to a trap door hatch in the treehouse floor. Also has a Plexiglas hatch in the ceiling which allows access to the roof.

Michael McDonald
Saint John, NB, USA

21 July 2006

What was going to be just a 4x4 beam between two trees for a swing set in the back woods behind my house, to keep my kids off the front street, became a $3500, amazing treehouse.

The tree house has 3 big fir trees (the kids and I call them the Big Bears) growing up through the floor and continuing up through the roof. She's all level but nothing is square. We used 18 inch galvanized lag bolts to secure the structure. The trees to this day are happy and healthy.

My kids love it and every fall when the snow is about to blow in, we take a marker and Mallory 9 and Connor 7, write a paragraph of what the summer was like and the times they had that year. So far we have nine great stories on the walls of Camp Outrageous, as the kids fondly call the old tree house.

That 3500 dollars was the best investment in memories a father could have ever undertaken. We live in the trees and love what they have given us.

Cary Goldberg
Jackson, New Jersey, USA
13 July 2006

Decided to build treehouse using left over materials from deck. Treehouse porch has Trex surface, house itself has two windows and one door. There are steps attached to the tree which leads to a trap door hatch in the tree house floor. Also has a Plexiglas hatch in the ceiling which allows access to the roof.

Kelly Heikkila
Western Ohio (I live in north eastern Ohio), USA
7 July 2006

My dad built us a big treehouse on a federally funded tree farm down by Greenville, Ohio and Fort Laraime. It's a one room one story roof treehouse. Although there is no porch is has screens, swinging ropes and a bucket. I am now thinking of building one on our property at home. This site truly inspired me!

Karen Grayczk
Silverton, Oregon, USA
Text and original photos: 5 May 1998

Photo 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7
26 April 2006: Photo 8

14' up to platform which is 16'x21'. Another level 3' up from the 1st using actual stairs, then up another 5 or 6' to the sleeping platform. There are 11 windows and a Dutch door. We have all outer walls up and most of the rafters. There are portions of the trees that come up thru the floor and we intend to wall around them as well. House is set between two huge Maple trees that are both at least 4' in diameter at their bases. Arborist work was done to take some weight out of the tops and have reinforced some areas with cabling.

Have builder/inspector (Jeff Wearne) doing the work. I am the go-fer.

Cameron B
Baltimore County, Maryland
15 March 2006

This isn't an old, forgotten treehouse. It's my daily place! It's where the fun goes down and often becomes a party! The Treehouse, established June 2005. This was built entirely by me and a friend with no special equipment and certainly no massive amounts of money. It's what a treehouse is supposed to be, with the addition of electricity, cable TV, surround sound, refrigerator, heat, air conditioning, propane appliances, plenty of seating, etc. We will always be adding to the design and constructing new additions to make it more fun to throw huge parties or simply chill out and watch TV. Thanks for checking out my place!

Cosette Dawna Rae
Fall City, WA, King County
19 February 2006

Heavensfield Massage & Bodywork, home of the Pacific Northwest's only Treehouse Massage studio.

2005

David Blood
Pacific NorthWest, WA

11 November 2005

David Blood treehouse
Photo

I had to wait until I was 49 years old to build my Treehouse in Auburn Washington, a little drive from Seattle. One day My friend Mick "The Masterbuilder" said "we could build a Treehouse in that tree". So the seed was planted and within 4 months we were just about completed. There isn't a day that goes by that somebody doesn't stop and ask questions or want to go inside. What a project to embark upon. No plans other then a vision, perhaps a little pencil drawing on a 2x4 cut off. All cedar with punch out windows and back bed area.

Nick Kaplan
Westerville, Ohio

18 September 2005

I am a landscape contractor in the central Ohio area and have recently finished my first tree house. The adventure began with a referral from a fellow landscaper who turned down a client's request to build a treehouse. After doing a few days of research online and at the library, as well as collaborating with the home owners' 8-year-old son, I created a working drawing and started buying materials.

I have my own mig welder and fabricated all of the mounting brackets by copying the brilliant G.L. system. (4)1" X 14" bolts hold the (2) 2" X 12" x 12' treated beams in place. The most frustrating part of the project (besides interacting with and working for the homeowners!!) was installing the bolts into the tree. Somewhere along the way I read that drilling holes 1/8" smaller than your bolts is the way to go. I had to literally leap into the air (with a tree-climbing harness on) and put all of my free-falling weight on the biggest pipe wrench I could find (24"!). It took one whole day to get 4 bolts in. I hypothesize that part of the problem was that my bolts were only threaded on the first 5" of the bolt and were smooth after that. Maybe the slightly thicker diameter of the unthreaded part caused the problem. On the bright side however, those bolts aren't going anywhere during my lifetime.

I reinforced the floor joists with angle iron and used 5/4" treated decking for the floor. I attached more bolts higher up the tree and hung ¼" cable with turnbuckles from a custom hanger.

My favorite part of the project is the aircraft cable spiral staircase. I have done a lot of searching and have never seen anything like it. I would love to see someone else's attempt at something similar so please forward me contact info if you have it. It is made of nearly 400 feet of ¼" cable, about 200 cable clamps, (9) 18" galvanized turnbuckles and 5 sheets of treated ¾" plywood. The circle of 9 cables (8 circumference and 1 center cables) has a radius of 26" and is attached to 10" eye bolts that are set in a round concrete foundation. In theory, the points of attachment at the base and at the treehouse were supposed to be identical thus creating perfectly vertical and parallel cables. It didn't quite work out that way...but it still works!

If you don't have access to a welder or metal fabrication equipment please contact me if you would like to order any of the bolts, brackets or metal parts I have mentioned. A liability release form is required if you want me to make any parts for you.

Although I had loads of fun and learned a ton about treehouse building I am really kicking myself for doing my first treehouse as a paid project. I basically paid my clients to let me build a treehouse for them. In addition to that, and worst of all, they were the pickiest, most critical clients I have ever worked for in my 16 years of business. Here are several suggestions I have to offer contractors. However, if you are as excited as I was about building a treehouse you will probably ignore everything I have to say and jump right in anyway... -Don't build your first treehouse for $. -Estimate the cost of materials and labor; then double or triple those numbers and maybe you will break even. -Don't build a treehouse for people you don't know. Rigid, particular and know-it-all people may make the process miserable. -If you do contract with homeowners, apply these rules of thumb for billing purposes: 1)Charge your normal hourly rate if the clients promise never to come outside. 2)Charge 2x's your normal rate if they want to watch. 3)Charge 3x's your normal rate if they want to make suggestions. 4)Charge 4x's if they want to make suggestions and help. 5)Drop everything and RUN if they want to direct the project!

D. Brown
New Boston, Texas, USA
16 September 2005

D Brown treehouse
Photo 1 | 2

This is what my boyfriend built over one summer when he was married to his ex and couldn't get away from her enough. I can only imagine what he could do if he was motivated. The entire thing is built of scraps and logs from the yard; the roof inside is old interior doors. There's electricity inside, a window on the back wall, and it's insulated enough to live in. As a matter of fact, we had my best friend as a guest all last year.

Wayne Barnes
NY, USA
13 July 2005

I helped some friends build a tree house in central park in 1980. It was located on the west side of the park near the museum of natural history. We would go to the east side and get materials from dumpsters. The tree was impossible for most people to climb as it was large in diameter and had no branches below about 20 feet. My friends were expert climbers and would move up the tree like a jack. We made a rope bridge which led from another tree. Eventually we found strangers in the tree and dismantled the bridge in favor of dropping a rope after one of us had climbed the tree. A policeman on horseback would pass under the tree daily and we would hold our breath. One day in late summer I arrived at the tree to find a crew with a cherry picker tearing the house down. It was stuff kids dream about!

Leah Reuter
Decatur, GA , USA
13 June 2005

We built our treehouse a year ago for my 5 year old daughter's birthday and as a place for both children to escape to during the remodeling of our house. As it turns out our two dogs love the tree house more than anyone and spend hours in it every day!

Mark Perez
National City, San Diego, CA, USA
20 May 2005

Mark Perez treehouse
Photo

My treehouse has 3 levels. The main deck, then a loft, and off of the loft is the "sky nest". My treehouse has the 3 things that make a 'true' treehouse. (1) a trap door (2) the stairs do not touch the ground, and (3) has a bucket on a rope. All the windows are plexi-glass because of birds flying into them. The tree is a pepper tree that must be around 90-100 years old (huge).

Kyle
Crescent, IA, USA
13 April 2005

We have had a tree house for many years and I now have to rebuild it do to it rotting. Our tree house lasted about 8 years. it is built in one tree.Our tree house isn't real special. it is pretty secluded and it is about 10 feet up. the previous owners of the house built it. the tree house has one floor and isn't real big. It is about 5'x4'

Ian Brondolo
Stony Point, New York, USA
22 March 2005

I have a nice tree house built in an old oak tree that i am renovating, when it is finished it will be pretty nice. Good luck with your site! You are doing a very nice job.

2004

Michael
Modesto, Ca (Stanislaus), USA

6 November 2004

I'm in the process of building a 7-sided treehouse, with maple floors and t-111 siding. 2 windows and a garage ladder as the entrance. Pictures are being taken as each phase gets completed. So far the walls are framed and im getting ready to paint the siding before I side it, so I don't have to paint it later.

Arjen K Lenstra
Mendham, NJ, Morris County, USA

21 October 2004

Built from old logs in my backyard (except for the plywood for the roof). Three trees: one fully connected, one semi-connected (sliding and fixed connections) and one with only sliding connections. Great to be up there when it's windy!

Mr. Mural Adams
Lena, Wisconsin, USA

15 October 2004

My wife and I built this treehouse, not for children,or grandchildren, but for us. It has a wide, winding staircase with rails, two very small porches with railings around them. The whole treehouse, stairs, roofing and all are made of white cedar lumber and logs. We are about finished with it and are planning to have a group of friends for a house warming party. We plan to have live music. We might put the musicians each in a deer stand, each on their own tree. Can you imagine the stereo effect as the music will echo in the woods.

Anon
Palatine, Illinois, USA
9 October 2004

My friend has a little treehouse in his pine tree. It isn't really a house, but its still really fun. Between big branches, he has planks of plywood attached at both branches, and it has about 7 stories, all connected by 1 big branch halfway between stories. It is very cool.

Trefford Woodford
Centralia, WA, USA

21 September 2004

Trefford Woodford treehouse
Photo

I started building my treehouse June 2003. It was a Sunday, I was bored, and I had some wood sitting around, so I just decided to get started. It is in a 100 year old maple that I've been wanting to put a treehouse in for a long time. The main floor is 17 feet from the ground and is 320 square feet with 2 rooms and 2 decks. There is another deck on the roof. Originally the upper deck wasn't planned but it was more fun on the roof. I erected a scaffolding to have a stable platform so that I could install the supports and the main floor. The walls were built on the ground and raised up using a boom truck. The roof was the trickiest part because I built around all the limbs. It is almost complete. I just widdle away at it when I have time and feel like it. Feel free to email me if you have any questions or would like to see more pictures.

Kurt Schlick
Kurt Schlick Construction Co
(425) 890-2625
Issaquah, Washington, USA

17 September 2004

Kurt Schlick treehouse
Photo | 2

I am a general contractor near Seattle WA. I was asked to build something that the neighborhood kids could have fun with. It started out as a play house in the trees, but soon it took on a look of it's own. The deck is 16'x16'x16' and 8' above the ground, from there you go up some stairs to a rope bridge that is about 12' long. once on the deck there is a little play house to the right w/door, windows shutters that open and close with old window weights. out of one of the windows is a fireman's bucket on a rope and pulley system. Some great tea parties are had here. Back on the deck are different way to get back to the ground, one of witch is a 15' slide, or if you are more brave you can take the brass fireman's pole to the sand box below and it is back up again by the rope bridge or there is a rope and plank ladder up the side. The railing has 2'x2' wicker panels that give it a most unique look. Small cargo nets work as gates so it is safe for all ages. This was a fun project to build and design, and I look forward to doing it all over again someday.

Bill Hamman
Winchester, Va,USA
5 September 2004

In the oak trees behind our house, a one story pentagon shaped, cedar sided, treehouse with a balcony, loft, built in fold-out table. It has electricity, and is 14 ft off the ground. Entry is via a permanent ladder thru a trapdoor in the floor. Large windows are on 3 sides with fold out shutters in the front roof apex covering a screened section for mucho ventilation and a wonderful view of the woods and the Shenandoah Valley. My two sons and I built it in about 5 weeks with salvaged materials from the local do-it-yourself centers. Total cost around $1200.

Tom Norian
Corte Madera, CA, USA
beverlymadera.com/treehouse/tree.html
9 July 2004

Here's the link to my site. I think they are unique in appearance, creative in uses of light weight materials... and the method of accessing the tower is a good consideration for a high house used as a children's play house.

Patrick Welch
Michigan, USA
22 February 2004

Patrick Welsh treehouse
Photo 1 | 2 | 3

I thought I would send you some photos of the tree house my son and I built. It is built between trees and is about 18 ft. above the ground. It has a walkout deck and bunks that flip down so we can spend the night. On the deck I have a clamp on grid we use to support a grill and often barbeque out there. Even my wife joins us from time to time. The tree house is about four years old now and is holding up well. We live in Michigan and it is subject to harsh weather. I have included some photos if you wish to post. We call it Matt's Condo.

2003

Joyce LaVoie
Todd County, MN, USA
4 April 2003

Our treehouse is nearly 2 years old. We have treasured it everyday. It is built on a triangle between three trees. It has a deck and lotza room inside. We have a futon bed, wood stove/wood box, table and chairs. It is great. In webshots.com you can find photos of it. Just search treehouses.

Pete Nelson
Fall City, WA, USA
Nelson Treehouse
7 March 2003

I built my treehouse in 1994 with the intention of adding on pods and bridges and moving my family into it. Cooler heads prevailed and it became my office for many years. Now my new "ground" house is built 50 yards away and the treehouse has been converted to a guest house.

Myron McKee
Dora, MO, USA
riveroflifefarm.com/missouri-lodging/missouri-ozarks-treehouse-vacation-treetop-loft/
4 February 2003

We built a deck 14' up in the limbs of two hickory trees and placed the Tree House Cabin behind it. Lots of glass, (including stained glass), handcrafted cedar log stairs, bay window... see for yourself :)

Debbie Carpenter
Happy Top ATV Trails, Happy Top Road, Estill County, KY, USA
21 January 2003

This is my first treehouse, but certainly not my last..can't wait to start another! I bought all the books and learned by my mistakes. My "Robin's Nest" has gas heat and lights as well as a half bath, is fully furnished and has a sleeping loft as well. Go shopping in RV stores for interesting items that can be adapted for your interior. Plan to go bigger and add a tiny kitchen in the next one. Any tips for sealing around the trees? I used a tractor inner tube - and it works well (depending on which way the wind in blowing) - of course the one through the porch roof has never leaked!

2002

William Haring
Wentworth, NH, USA
9 December 2002

This New England treehouse is set among a grove of tall White Pines. It's set about five feet off the ground and bolted to half a dozen trees. Total space is about 250 square feet of space; "green room" (almost all windows), narrow hallways, a "sleeping cave", bedroom and main room. Electricity is provided by 12 volt batteries and heat from a woodstove.

The Minnesota Treesnakes
Minnesota, USA
28 October 2002

Built our treehouse in a pair of Northern Red Maple trees above a wild and scenic Central Minnesota river. Featured in two recent treehouse books, we enjoyed keeping our website up-to-the-minute with photos and stories.

Greg Shepherd
Eugene, OR, USA
23 October 2002

We just started it this summer. Once the front deck is finished, then we'll get working on the house structure.

Dennis Desmarais
Guemes Island, WA, USA
19 October 2002

This is our second treehouse on the property. My sons sleep in the first. This one is for my wife and I. It took us about 5 weeks to build over two summers. I originally told my wife it would cost $500 to build but it ended up be substantially more - it got to be much more elaborate as we built it than I had planned.

Maya Goodman
Fresno, CA, USA
15 October 2002

In four redwoods in Santa Cruz with a view of Monterey Bay, 10 ft by 20 ft - it's sick.

Mural Adams
Lena, Oconto County, Wisconsin, USA
21 September 2002

Suspended from cables to three cedar trees, our tree house is the occupation of my wife and I since we retired. It is not for children, or grandchildren, it is for us. The floor is about 10 off the ground, the peak of the roof is about 24 feet up. Dimensions, about 8 ft. by 12 foot, at least right now. It could grow onto another tree. Someone asked, "When will it be finished?", I said, "Probably never".

Joe and Mackenzie
Michigan, USA
31 August 2002

This is a family project that started in spring of 1999. Our treehouse is on two live trees with 10 support tree trunk/poles 30 ft high with 2 stories, the first is 24 x 14, 2nd is 16 x 14. It has kitchen, 2 bathrooms, 2 fireplaces, living room, bedroom. Accessed by stairway to the second landing, then ladder to enter the hatch door in floor.

Darryl Boyd
Spring Creek, NV, USA
26 August 2002

"Metalscape, Inc. manufactures full scale steel trees with treehouses for a unique office, child's playhouse or private retreat."

The prototype tree and house was made 7 years ago for my daughters. As Nevada has no trees where we are the steel tree proved to be a decent solution and has since been developed into a product line for my ornamental ironworking business.

Philip Crisler
Covington, WA, USA
26 August 2002

The SPIRAL STAIRCASE hasn't hurt the evergreen and it's over two years old now. Building it was fairly simple... I'm not a carpenter... and it's holding up well. I let the kids play in it too.

Rich Renouf
Mount Shasta, CA, USA
22 August 2002

3 year project and still going...

Jeff Hanus
Belvidere, IL, USA
10 August 2002

Nestled in woods of rolling hills of Jo Davis County, IL. Outside of Galena, IL, sitting in 6 old oak trees, is a rustic treehouse. We live in 500sq. foot on weekends, we have a loft with a deck all the way around the treehouse, we are in the making of a catwalk through the woods on our 8 acres. I'm a portable welder I fabricated all my brackets. My treehouse floats in the air.

Nick Boyd
St Joseph, Missouri, USA
24 July 2002

More a treedeck than a treehouse.

Alan Copeland
Forest Grove, OR, USA
21 July 2002

The treehouse is in a dead maple tree and has skylights, a u-shaped bench with a center table that retracts, power and antenna access for TV, etc. Much of the construction used material from the tree, but some lumber was also used. A trap door was just completed for safety and security. It has been a lot of fun!

Jeff
Dallas, TX, USA
11 May 2002

The treehouse I have is built in a greenbelt park - there is a lot of time and effort into it. Almost everything has been recycled from the local creek mostly made of 2x4s to 2x8. Sits three 3 levels the roof consists of two layers of half inch plywood because it gets hot here I made the side hinged so that I can ventilate it as well as serve as a shelf its built into three maple trees and has now been there for 15 months also under the first deck I built in two birdhouses that some wrens took to immediately, however I did not get permission to build this and few know of it even though its right off a major highway here in Dallas.

Tom Lepore
Colorado Springs, CO, USA
24 April 2002

My treehouse is built in a 90' tree in my backyard. At about 3' above ground level, the tree splits into 4 very distinct trees that reach for the sky. My treehouse uses these four trees to form the corners of the house. These trunks are half IN the house and half OUT of the house. It is weather-proof (but not yet squirrel-proof. I will finish THAT this summer. It's cool. Thanks

Steven Horwood
Santa Barbara, CA, USA
3 April 2002

I am about to commence. I am in very early design stage. Looking for ways to build without anchoring to the tree (old California oak). I have a $5000 budget, materials and labor (figuring $2200 labor - approx 80 hrs).

2001

Scott, Joan, Jessica and Erin Stevens
Paris, TN, USA
8 March 2001

Grand Oaks Tree House grew from a seed planted by my daughter on trip to the local library. We are a homeschooling family and we were looking for some more room. A tree house sounded like a fun and creative way to build some space for learning. Our tree house is 8 by 14 feet completely finished with electricity. It has an upper deck dubbed the "Eagle's Nest" after my daughter went on a field trip banding bald eagles.

Ted the Tree Dweller
LaCenter, WA, USA
1 March 2001

My treehouse (originally started for the kids) is 12 feet off the ground at the deck and 22 at the roofs peak. It is a six sided house in a single Douglas Fir that has a 2 foot diameter at the floor. Supported by 6-4x4 posts on pyramid blocks this one story treehouse has been a blast to build. It is Tyvek wrapped with foam board on the outside. I have been given some vinyl siding and that will be the finished look. The inside is still unfinished with plans for 4 hidden folding bunks. I just started my deck which will hold the stairs, so the ladder is still the access.

Chuck
Hagarstown, IN, USA
5 February 2001

I have a 8' by 9' tree house 32' in the air. It has a fireplace made from concrete and chimney bricks. It has 4 windows and a flat roof that you can see Highway 1 from. I have installed a 50cc motor used as a pulley. I have lots of stuff up there. On the fire place I have a portable cooking rack. Lots of times I go hunting from the top.

Damon Jespersen
Marlboro, VT, USA
30 January 2001

My treehouse is in four sugar maples. It is sixteen by fourteen with a loft, and serves as my college dorm room. I heat with a wood stove, and have a propane fridge, lights, and cook stove. It is a great place to retreat from the chaos of college life. My house is not as fancy as many that I have seen in books with wood paneling, but it is very comfortable and a cheap alternative to living in the dorm.

Kelcey
Westmoreland, TN, USA
23 January 2001

This is my dad. He built an A-frame treehouse for me and my twin brother when we were kids. He used oak wood (cut from the farm) and a shingle roof. It had a simple ladder that went up to the treehouse. We had an ice storm a few years ago, and the trees supporting the house went down, as did the treehouse. It was so heavy, we rolled it on a trailer and one of my cousins now has it sitting in his backyard for his toddlers to play in.

2000

Patricia Haines
Ithaca County, NY, USA
16 November 2000

I've just bought land on which I want to build several tree houses, with help from young people in our community. Any suggestions would be most welcome. So much to learn - but such fun.

Dave Frye
Kapaa, HI, USA
12 November 2000

Custom built Treehouses on the Isle of Kauai. Nightly and long term rentals from our clients.

Harry Neely
Dryden, Michigan, USA
3 November 2000

Built on a hill, the treehouse is 22 feet up on one side and 30 feet on the other. The platform is 13 x 16 feet and the living area is 8 x 10 with a loft for sleeping. Built in 1998 it over looks a pond. Many pics of construction and finished house on the web site.

Mark Sims
Chesterfield, MO, USA
21 October 2000

My friend and I built a treehouse in my relatively small (about an acre) backyard. The first level is 25 ft off the ground and the roof at feet higher, in a very stable oak tree. It gets a little different in the fact that we were able to build it without ever nail or screwing into the tree. It is "hanging" on four main branches that form a box, we accomplished this by using steel cabling and eye bolts that go through the 2X6's we use for the main beams. We used 4 ply plywood for the floors and painted all the boards with sealant. We are currently having troubles with walls and of course there is a lot of shaking in windy weather on the second level especially.

Ted
Spratanburg, SC, USA
18 October 2000

My treehouse took me 2 years to build! It has Cable, refrigerator, it is two storey, with power and 2 porches.

Philip Crisler
Covington, WA, USA
31 August 2000

A spiral staircase climbs a medium-size evergreen. The floor is 16 feet up. It's a six-sided pie. Six 2x4's are bolted to the ends of the floor joists and tilt outward about 10 degrees as they go up to bolt onto the rafters. No roof...everybody says "Leave it open" so I'm finished. The walls are three horizontal 2x4s and vinyl-covered wire mesh over it... very open yet strong. It's used on the staircase too.

Update 25 Feb 01: The spiral staircase is lasting well and it hasn't hurt the tree!

Doug Plank
Oak Ridge, NC, USA
26 August 2000

Single tree (24 inch poplar) 13 foot off ground to floor and 21 to roof peak. Arched window with shutters and floor box, trap door in floor, landing with rope ladder and 90 foot zip line for fast get away. Rope and pulley with basket and weather vane on roof. Built floor like deck and lagged into tree. Used pre-finished fiberboard siding and asphalt corrugated roofing. Make sure you have a good ladder and think building sequence through or you will build yourself out of a position to do the next thing.

James B'fer Roth
Warern, Vermont, USA
22 August 2000

An eight sided living sculpture 20 feet off the ground with sleeping loft at 30 ft. in a large multi - branched maple tree.

Anton
Queens, NY, USA
22 August 2000

My treehouse isn't that big because I live near the city so there isn't much space. It has 3 floors. I built it by myself. The top floor can fit about 5 people. It has windows and carpet. Also it has a roof. There is a trap door to the bottom floor. You can't stand up in the bottom floor but you can sit. That has carpet also. The top top floor is all the way on the the top of the tree. That also has carpet but no roof. It can fit about 3 people. It's like a look out tower.

I have a trap where you pull a string and water comes out down a pipe and on to someone. I also have a pulley system. It doesn't hold people but it pulls up stuff. On the bottom floor there's a little deck where you can stand or there's a zip line down to my backyard. My dad helped me build that. It's about 20 ft long from my treehouse to my back yard. You can also stand on the roof of my tree house like a deck. I have windows and electricity. You get up by a rope ladder, a tree ladder, a rope up the back of the tree, a rope in the front, and a pole.

Nick Bellos & Justin Ruhoff
Maple Grove, MN, USA
17 August 2000

Well, we started yesterday and so far it has two floors and we are just now starting to work on the walls and roof. It's pretty small but it's our first and it was something we decided to do and since we are best friends it is a lot of fun.

Sharla Alderson
West Fork, Arkansas, USA
15 August 2000

My treehouse is 10' x 10', made from recycled materials and located in the middle of 40 acres in the beautiful Ozark mountains. This is a luxury treehouse, complete with hardwood floors, knotty pine tongue&groove walls, cedar siding and a deck with a view!

Mark Melton
Dallas, GA, USA
13 July 2000

Hi, My treehouse is built between two huge Hickory trees. It is 25ft to the deck of it. The dimensions are 26ft. long by 12ft. wide. It has a small front porch, then the house itself is 14ft long by 12ft. wide with the remainder of the space used as a huge porch with one of the trees coming up through it. It has a large sleeping loft built over half the inside of the house. Amenities include: air conditioning, electric heat, fridge, stereo, TV, Nintendo, microwave, small toaster oven.

I built a winding staircase up one of the trees for access. Under the first level landing I built a huge sandbox. There is also a zip line from the first landing running across the yard. The house itself would be considered a story and a half with foru windows and two dutch doors. I did all the work entirely by myself using scaffolding. It took me eight months working everyday after work and on weekends to complete it. And of course... the kids rarely use it. Thats OK... I use it! You have never slept better in all your life!

C Leflar
Fayetteville, AR, USA
11 July 2000

Set in the midst of a four trunked Bodark, it stands on six 4x4 pillars set in concrete. The foot of the L shaped platform is raised. The main purpose is to be a play house for children and grandchildren.

Brent Mercer Art
Fresno, CA, USA

10 July 2000

I've been working many years on chair ideas, that have with my treehouses, become Treenets! The last few years I've made tree-nethouses at a 6,500 person, 3 day music festival for the free kids' area, complete with rope bridges! Well they've been a great hit even with the adult kids. These prototypes are portable, soft, and fall-proof. I feel that any rigid wood structure treehouse should be surrounded by them, or used just by themselves.

Nicky King
Elreno Canadian, Oklahoma, USA
8 July 2000

I am 14 now was 12 when I built main part which is the 8'x12'. It has one double bunk and two single bunks. It's approx 14' to the bottom of treehouse. I went over to my dads friends house and took off an 8x10 deck then attached it to the tree under the house, also added another 8x8 onto that all of which was used lumber my dad showed me how to tie top plate of walls together then he cut the metal for the roof. Plans were used all from my head, soon I will side it.

Nick Harriman
Fairview, NC, USA
27 June 2000

This house was built with three trees and one added 6x6 post. The platform is entirely of treated lumber, supported on brackets designed after the ones on page 51 of "Home Tree Home" by Pete Nelson. The treehouse is secured to only one cross beam, allowing the entire platform to "float" as the trees move in the wind. The platform is 10x10 with an 8x8 single-sloped roof house, allowing a 2-foot deck on 2 sides. It comes complete with 2 bunk beds, window seat and slide.

Bunga
Southington, CT, USA
9 March 2000

I just built my second 14' X 12' treehouse in a YMCA summer camp that spans 140 acres. Dudes, it is way cool with 4 foot porch, Plexiglas windows and soon to be completed 10' deck. Next project may be a huge slide coming off the deck into the pond which is adjacent. Kids camps are screaming for non-conventional buildings and it's a great community service project for would-be carpenters. The floor ranges from 13' above ground to the peak at 23'. It's kid proofed against falls.

1999

James Myers
Middle Bury Center, PA, USA
17 December 1999

It is located in a big maple tree. It has a floor, roof, and walls. It is about 10' off the ground. I have camouflaged my whole fort. I have one window to look out of.

Brent Mercer / Art
Fresno, CA, USA

31 October 1999

Two of my past treehouses are a 3 person deck 80' up in a eucalyptus tree, the 2nd in a Modesto ash, a 30 person deck at 25 feet up, with electricity, stereo, phone, pulley to pool, swings to house roof, nets to sit/lay into, and bed platform. But I've been working on a totally different angle - no floors or walls, but nets! Soft and fall-proof! Also chairs of net, elevators, fall-proof ladders, fireman pole and bungee net ideas!

Nicholas Tish and Kane Schonaurer
Millersburg, Ohio, USA
1 October 1999

Our treehouse was built by our Dads. Actually it's not done yet, but it soon will be. The dimensions are 8 foot by ten foot about 12 feet up the tree (high!). It is in a single tree in the woods not far from both our houses. It is ladder accessible and very cool. We recommend a book called "Tree Houses" by David and Jeanie Stiles. It was a great help to us when we started building our treehouse.

Christian
Bloomington, Indiana, USA
1 October 1999

It's still in the construction stage but it spans three maple trees to form a triangle.The back end of the triangle is ten feet and the remaining other two sides are twenty two ft.The floor has 41 logs. No two by fours yet.

Spencer Clare
Double Oak, TX, USA
27 September 1999

Fits between four young and growing oaks, creating an irregular shaped foundation of about 70sqft covered and 24sqft balcony overlook for RC car racing. Foundation supported by and rest on top of 2x4 clamps and allthread so that minimal harm comes to the trees. As the trees grow, the tighter the clamps become. They may be relieved as required. This also allows the treehouse to float with respect to wind and movement.

Glen Gaviglio
Fairfield, CA, USA
26 September 1999

My house is a huge 3 story stilt house. I'm even legal!

Joe Arling & Ry Meyer
Dubuque, Iowa, USA
13 September 1999

We built this treehouse during the summer of 1999, the summer of our high school graduation, in Meyer's backyard, which is made up of 14 acres of wooded property. Treehouse is approx. 50 sq. feet, 15 feet up in an oak tree, and ceilings are high enough for Ry (who is 6'3") to stand in a good portion of it. Joe (who is 5'8") can stand in almost all of it. The roof is a 1/4 hip roof design (one corner of a hip roof, for all practical purposes). Windows are made of Plexiglas, have screens, and open towards the inside. Future plans include a deck, stairway, and possibly a companion picnic pavilion.

Cindy
NC, USA
27 August 1999

8 feet, tin shed roof, sliding pole to get down fast, small porch, built on 4 4x4's with plywood floor and horizontal board siding about 3' high, structure starts about 10' off the ground.

Jesse Troxler
Knoxville, TN, USA
23 August 1999

Built in an elm tree 17 feet high. Has bamboo railings, a tarp roof, hammock, Christmas lights and lots of plants, a radio and sometimes a TV.

Dawn Merritt
Norman, OK, USA
21 August 1999

I am the mother of the three girls shown in the treehouse. I built the treehouse this summer, '99 for my girls, along with putting up a tire-swing and knotted climbing rope. I plan to build additional platforms, crows-nest, and look-out towers in this tree, as well as putting up a rope ladder and short rope bridge.

Lynn Minor
Frewsburg, Chautauqua County, NY, USA
16 August 1999

Built by Brad minor(12), Garret Johnson (14) and Lynn Minor (13). It is 36 feet long, 7 feet from floor to roof, anywhere from 4 to 7 feet off the ground (it sits on a steep hill), the roof is 14 feet at it's highest point, 3 different sections constructed over a one year period in 5 separated white pines. 7 windows with hinged doors to keep rain out. Smallest section is open (no roof). 1 couch, 4 chairs, lights and stereo.

John Admas
Salem, OR, USA
10 August 1999

My treehouse (more of a fort really) has the floor 8 ft off the ground. It has a set of monkey bars leading to another treethat is really close.from that tree you can climb up to a platform thats about 40 ft off the ground with a zip line that shoots over my pool.

Me and my sisters love climbing up to the platform and zipping into the pool.

Patrick Swanson
Belmont, MI, USA
9 August 1999

Mine is a very unique treehouse. It is actually one 10x5 treehouse connected by bridge to a smaller tree platform. They are both built on mid-age to old pines. The main treehouse is 16 feet (5.3 meters) and the tree platform is 17 feet (5.6 meters) up. In addition to this I am planning a small cargo lift (elevator?) for easy transport of goods.

Bryan C Karp
Audubon, NJ, USA
9 August 1999

In my backyard about 40-50 feet up in a quad-trunked old giant oak tree. 1 room complete with roof and drop sides. Has an entry door and is wired with electric and is furnished for overnight use including a television set.

Zachary Blackwood
Providence, RI, USA
5 August 1999

I am 9 years old. Me and my Dad are working together on my Treehouse. My Treehouse sits about 12 feet off the ground and sits in an old maple tree (the only tree in our small yard). The platform is approx. 6 feet by 5 feet, enough room for a couple of kids to sleep. It has a very steep roof, three windows (no glass) and a door. We are still building it.

Richard Nelson
Auburn twp, Geauga County, Ohio, USA
23 July 1999

200 sq. ft. elevated 10 ft. off the ground with canvas covered gazebo roof approximately 100 yards from the main house situated in heavy woods overlooking a large lake. A great place for evening cocktails or just to get away from it all and enjoy nature. The standing record so far is 17 persons enjoying the views at one time. A 30 foot poplar tree runs through the bow shaped front of the structure.

Sam Edwards
Calhoun, Georgia, USA
Blog article
18 July 1999

1100 square feet of full time living space, built in and around a 60 foot pin oak (160 year old) with 24 feet of airplane fuselage sticking out of one end (bedroom). Began the project in '91 and have lived here since. Residence has all the amenities. And oddly enough, is located 200 yards from the middle of town. Site has photo gallery.

Treesnakes
Williams Township, Minnesota, USA
18 July 1999

Built on 15 acres of wooded country bordered by one of the states best rivers for kayaking, fishing and canoeing. Started building in the Fall of 1997. Nearly ¾'s complete. Finishing the interior space and then on to the observation platform 25' above the river bottom.

Jerry and Kerry Dermody
Pagosa Springs/Chromo, CO, USA
10 July 1999

We were inspired by 14' x 14' lookout towers, but improved the plan. Built 3 storeys bracketed by 2 awesome Poderosa Pines with 2 used telephone poles at the other corners. Level #1: deck with window wall on west (breezy) side #2: Main "cabin"--kitchen (haul water), table, sofa; #3 loft sleeps 3. Propane stove, lights, fridge, furnace. Ski access in winter. Dutch-door outhouse in the meadow. We had professional carpentry help. Awesome views of the Rockies. Nat'l Forest adjacent. Come visit!

Tim Oden
Oklahoma City, OK, USA
6 July 1999

It's about 100 sq. ft. about 15 feet off the ground, spanning two trees on independent 2x10x12 trusses, which give it a nice sway. It is my beginner treehouse - the next one will be massive!

Andrea Finney
La Garita, CO, USA
19 June 1999

We just had a treehouse built for my sons. A treehouse was something I always wanted as a child but never had. I find myself as excited as they are. I had it built so that we can add on through the years. A second story is already in the plans for next summer. We are adding a zip line at the moment. Our redwood treehouse is so cool. It has a small house with two doors and a railed deck all around it. One of the doors is a secret exit. Of course no treehouse would be complete without a trap door to go along! I am sure that there are better treehouses but we are very happy with ours!

Patrick Prescott, Bryan Cope
Lake Jackson, TX, USA
16 June 1999

Our tree house isn't what comes to mind when you think of a treehouse. It's really a bunch of shrimp net suspended about 30 feet up in a live oak. The net is about 20 ft. wide and 15 ft. long.

We built a ladder out of small trees we cut down and then we lashed them together. The ladder only goes halfway up to the net, you have climb the rest of the way up. We're about to suspend a big canvas tarp over it for a roof. The canvas will be good for shade and rain. Something else we're adding is a network of observation towers connected by rope bridges, we're almost done with the first one. After all that is done, we'll put a wooden platform under the net. I (Patrick) built most of the treehouse, and Bryan supplied most of the materials. We had the net in another tree but it fell over. When we would show someone the old tree house they always liked it.

Justin
Oakwood, IL, USA
9 June 1999

My treehouse is a very neat tree house it is built over a tree.

Mike Leghorn
Kent, WA, USA
8 June 1999

Built from old barn timbers (1920-30s) clear fir, rough sawn nominal dimension. 150 sq ft 1st floor and 150 sq ft observation deck. Suspended with cables between 3 mature Western Red Cedars approx. 50 to 60 ft tall. 1st floor is 8 feet off the ground.

Tom Dunlap
Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
30 May 1999

I am an ISA Certified Arborist and have built treehouses.

Scott Christine
Ocean Springs, MS, USA
29 May 1999

Our treehouse is on top of our swingset. Constructed of 2" pipe. 100 sq. ft. of space. (10'x10') 12 foot above the ground. For a quick exit it has a 2' wide 22' long stainless steel slide.

George Ells, Rick Thompson, Justin Lemaster
Grandview, Franklin, Ohio, USA
28 May 1999

Our treehouse is two stories high and has an addition. Now we are working on the addition. It's camouflaged in the summer and in the winter it is visible.

Harry Neely
Dryden, Michigan, USA
harryn.com
27 May 1999

Just started building on 5/20/99. Platform is 21 feet above ground. Deck is 13 x 16 feet, Treehouse will be 8 x 10 feet. It is built on a hillside presenting some special problems. See my website for updates and info.

Wade Parker
Chandler, TX, USA
29 April 1999

I started the treehouse as a simple thing for my daughter, Amanda. Well, one thing led to another and it got a little more complicated. Basically, it lies between three oaks, is about eight feet off the ground, completely enclosed with air conditioning, and has a deck with lattice work. I remember the tree house my father built me, I hope hers is just as important to her as well. Amanda was also my helper on the project.

Bud
Orange, VA, USA
28 April 1999

Its not very high but has a rope bridge and a rope swing. I have a lookout tower in the top and thats really high.

Scott Stevens
Paris, TN, USA
27 April 1999

I am a homeschooling parent and I built a treehouse schoolhouse for my two daughters. We have school daily in the treehouse and the name of our school is Grand Oaks Academy. The treehouse is a 8'x14' structure built between two oak trees and has a platform above the treehouse for reading and watching the world go by!

Sam Isaac Edwards
Calhoun, GA, USA
26 April 1999

Treehouse is my primary residence, 1100 sq's up/in/about 160yr old pin oak. Built from mostly salvaged materials, including 18 ft of airplane fuselage i use as a bedroom. It has all the amenities, heat/air phone, water power etc and satellite dish. I've been living here for the past seven years. House is featured in new book, "From outhouse to white house to treehouse" available May 15 1999 from Parris Press.

Nathan Smith
Mount Airy, NC, USA
24 April 1999

9ft by 9ft. Green. Overlooks driveway. Covered in camo netting. Sleeps 3 with table and chairs folded into the wall. Has propane hookups and electricity (via underground wires.) stove and heater-(propane). Did have water tank, but it didn't work so I took it out. Rubber roof. Everything can be either stored out of the way or folded into wall.

Casey Hastings
Austin, Minnesota, USA
24 April 1999

4 stories and constructed by two 4th graders named Casey and Frank.

Daniel Susott
Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
16 April 1999

The Gaiasphere Dome is a living dome of giant bamboo, trees, and vines, encompassing The Biosphere Tree, the giant banyan housing the 6-level treepalace (recently visited twice by Quentin Tarantino), home to the "Staving Artists" at the Hawaii International Film Festival. The canopy level is 120 feet above the stream. I will try to include some photographs. Visitors welcome - there's a lot more tree in which to add rooms and levels. Next comes a composting toilet and shower, water catchment and solar power...

Darin Davis and Margaret Ayer
Austin, TX, USA
14 April 1999

Our treehouse is actually a tree deck for the time being. It is approximately 20ft off the ground to the main platform

Mark and Kate Tague
Seminole County, FL, USA
10 April 1999

Our treehouse is built in six sable palm trees...consisting of a bedroom/living room...screened in atrium, including the stairwell....with eat-in kitchen on the ground floor....we've a guesthouse/treehouse as well....a loft, over a main sitting room....also built in sable palms...we have inhabited our treehouse for 13 years..and are now, even with homestead exemption, experiencing problems with our local county government.

Treehouse Junky
Seymour, TN, USA
8 April 1999

First treehouse is 6yrs old. It has 3 levels. First level is at 10ft. Second level is 17ft. Third level is at 28ft. Each level is 15ft by 15ft. Second treehouse is a little more simple. It is my 5 year olds. It sets 22ft off the ground. It is 10ft by 20ft. It sets on 3 white oaks, and and 1 huge pine!. I am a paid treehouse, deck, porch builder, and a general handyman.

pr1000
CA, USA
28 March 1999

I made a tree house a few years ago entirely from materials I found in the garbage bins of a fraternity at a university.

Mike
Guildrend, NY, USA
14 March 1999

It has 2 floors, power, pulley, toilet.

John Wenger
New Smyrna Beach, FL, USA
1 January 1999

Building my son a tree fort turned into a treehouse , after 40 hrs and $500 we are nearly complete. We now have a 11' 6" X 9' 6' Tree house Boasting 7' ceilings complete with windows operated by ropes and pulleys, a dumb waiter, fully operational door with locks. plans for a second floor are in the works. Plumbing is not the game plan but electric certainly is. Well that’s all for now. Got to get back to work on my tree condominium. Ha ha perhaps I'll hear from you in the future.

John Juzdowski
Buffalo, NY, USA
1 January 1999

I live in Buffalo but my treehouse is in the wood of a close by town. It's about 10ft off of the ground and I have a woodburning stove inside, because it gets pretty cold. It held up pretty good for the winter we had.

1998

Pancho
Corsicana, TX, USA
22 December 1998

I claim the design and builder's rights to over 10 large treehouses in Corsicana, TX. When I would build a good one some bully/punk/a**holes would run me and my friends out of there. I really didn't care, because each time I had to start over the Party houses would get better and better (always real cheap with scrap wood and cheap nails).

To all you punk builders out there: think about using strong rope wraps holding your plank (floor structure boards) instead of nails and screws to keep the tree(s) alive and ready for remodeling!!!

Also try to predict where future developers are going to build houses so that your sanctuary is as far away as possible.....

Oh yea, the underground coolers full of beer work great as long as you check on them when it rains and don't let anyone else in on your secret..................................:)

Bunga
Southington, CT, USA
9 December 1998

I built a way cool treehouse..12' X 10'...porch, shingled roof, windows, power... even managed to get taxed on it!!