MODULAR TREE HOUSE
June 2020
Submission To Young Architects Competition
Treetopia uses a kit-of-parts construction method to translate the act of climbing a tree into inhabitable architectures. The three module types not only increase interaction between people and trees, but can be installed either individually or combined to form tree towers.
Module halves cling to either side of a tree’s trunk, and are then mended together into one with local wood construction on site. This method gives the modules the freedom to expand, rotate, and attach at various heights, depending on its host tree. Once modules are erected, they are bound together in one form, by threading rope through receiving grooves in the module frame geometry.
MODULE FOR LIVING: a place for shelter, and to breathe the fresh forest air. Operable glass window modules slide vertically to create an open-air guardrail condition. The host tree becomes the feature of the space, as a central column. A tap and glass dispenser provides drinkable water from the tree.
MODULE FOR REST: users control and dial back sunlight using solid wood louvers. 8-inch louvers rotate within the frame to let air and daylight flow inside. Widening limbs provide structural stability for hanging beds.
How can we continue inhabit more space going up a tree?
Any module footprint can be extruded vertically, as a series of exterior terraces that intersect with the canopy of the tree. An ‘Exterior Deck’ is can be installed snugly on site with more local wood around branches. Rope threaded vertically not only protects people from falling, but permits tree branches to pass through unharmed. This same rope can be woven together above in a continuous hammock-like ‘Soft Deck’, floating amongst the tree branches. Clearing the last of the foliage, open metal grating installed atop frame extensions creates a ‘Treetop Deck,’ elevating people above the canopy line of the trees, offering panoramic views of the surroundings.
MODULE FOR WELLNESS: rests among trees and features a spa and outdoor edible garden. Visitors harvest and enjoy plants native to the French countryside. A live green curtain grows from the ground and shrouds the spa for privacy. A skylight focuses the view to dappled light thru surrounding tree canopies.
