Thinking of building a tree house? Tree house building is extremely popular and is a great way to get kids involved in DIY.
When it comes to how a tree house should look, there is no right or wrong answer. Some tree houses are simple, made from recycled pieces of timber and other odds and ends. Others look like veritable houses with lighting, glass windows, balconies and all!
The first step to building a tree house is choosing the site. Choose a healthy, long-lived hardwood tree for maximum support. The branches should be load bearing and be about 200mm in diameter (larger if the species is a softwood).
Once you have chosen the site it’s time to start thinking of other technicalities like how support platforms will work and how high up the tree you want to build. Then it’s time to plan the design. Do you want the tree house to complement your yard or are you aiming to create something fantastical for the kids?
Here are pictures of 6 different tree houses to get you inspired.
1. Forest getaway
This professional tree house is one of many at an American resort called Vertical Horizons
2. Snowy paradise
Another Vertical Horizons tree house, this one looks like a real miniature house
3. Recycled haven
This tree house was made using recycled materials
4. Medieval lookout
The design of this tree house was inspired by medieval architecture
5. Kids’ playhouse
This tree house serves as a playhouse and has a slide and stairs for better safety
6. Ultimate view
This tree house provides 360 degree views with a mini wraparound balcony