Tree House
Summer 2018
Concept Study
Location: Siteless
When at the individual scale, architecture is most equipped to excite the senses. It converts observation into experience and heightens the awareness of a user. In this site-less project, the intent is to create a space of retreat and contemplation, a space devoid of immediate constraints. What began as a formal exploration became a pragmatic exercise in constructing a space that can be adapted to places of retreat.
Its form needed to be simple as to be unimposing to its natural surroundings, its impact light so excavation would not be required, and its size small so it could be experienced at the individual scale. The result is a forest of thin columns that suspend a space for living and sleeping. On the lower level there is space for eating and relaxing with an array of windows along one side that open to surroundings. The upper level is a glass cube that houses a place to sleep and is surrounded on two sides by a balcony.
In order to protect its elements of comfort, resilient solutions are in place that can be applied to different environments. The footings and access bridge are equipped for both flat and sloped topography. Overhead, the shed roof provides ample shade while also protecting from harsh precipitation. On the lower level, an expanded metal mesh skin wraps the entire perimeter, providing a protective barrier. The panelized system is operable over glazing, allowing widows to be fully opened and providing an awning that shades direct sunlight. Materials chosen are sensitive to their surroundings, and their muted tones allow the cabin to recede into its environment.
