Calling all outdoor lovers, design dreamers, and architecture nerds—this one’s for you. TASCHEN’s new book Modern Tree Houses takes you high above the ground to explore how architecture and nature can live in perfect harmony.
These aren’t the rickety backyard forts you remember from childhood. Nope. Think eco-friendly homes, luxury escapes, and sculptural playgrounds suspended among the trees. The book features 62 modern tree houses that redefine what it means to build close to nature—crafted by renowned architects like Baumraum, Manuela Hardy, BIG, and Snøhetta, as well as passionate DIY dreamers.
Each design feels like a love letter to the outdoors. Some are sleek glass pods made for winter solitude; others are whimsical, multi-level hideouts complete with climbing ropes, bridges, and cozy wooden nooks. Every tree house responds to its environment—whether it’s nestled in a dense forest, perched on a cliff, or floating above snow-covered ground.
What makes these creations so special is their range. The materials, layouts, and purposes vary wildly, yet they all share one thing: an intimate connection with the natural world. Each space proves that modern tree houses can be both playful and deeply sustainable.
“Modern tree houses are proof that happiness doesn’t have to be built big—just built right,” says author Florian Siebeck. The collection captures everything from minimalist pods to luxury escapes, showing that sometimes the most beautiful architecture is the one that simply listens to the trees.
So whether you’re dreaming of your own forest retreat or just love seeing what happens when architecture and nature meet, TASCHEN’s Modern Tree Houses (amazon) will make you want to grab a sketchbook—and maybe a hammer.
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