In the heart of Sonoma County, California, Spyglass by Hometree emerges as an architectural marvel, a testament to innovative design seamlessly intertwined with its lush natural surroundings. Crafted by Artistree Home and completed in 2023, this 300-square-foot residence stands as a whimsical ode to childhood joys, drawing inspiration from the simple pleasure of peering through a leaf tube.
Elevated 25 feet above the forest floor and delicately centered around a majestic redwood tree, Spyglass is a captivating treehouse retreat that embodies both luxury and ecological mindfulness. The structure delicately balances on slender steel posts, minimizing its environmental impact while creating a unique vantage point. Its vaulted form, adorned with dynamic cuts resembling a folded leaf, pays homage to the organic shapes found in nature.
The exterior, clad in rust-textured metal diamond shingles mirroring redwood bark, seamlessly integrates Spyglass into its wooded surroundings. The linear design encompasses a walkway, a cozy kitchenette, and a bathroom featuring penny round tiles echoing the treehouse’s curvature. At its core lies the bedroom, opening onto a back terrace hosting a cedar hot tub, providing an enchanting space for relaxation amid the treetops.
Inside, Spyglass showcases meticulous wooden craftsmanship, with tongue-and-groove paneling creating the illusion of traversing a hollowed-out log. The fully glazed back wall offers uninterrupted views of the surrounding forest, emphasizing a connection with nature.
Architect Will Beilharz emphasized whimsy and nature in design, highlighting the dual sense of calm and excitement Spyglass elicits. The commitment to sustainability is evident in its triple-layer insulation, eco-friendly wood cladding, and a heat pump water heater, showcasing environmental stewardship.
Beyond its role as a luxurious retreat, Spyglass sets a precedent for sustainable, replicable design. Offered as a prefab unit by Artistree Home, it can adapt to diverse landscapes and tree configurations, ensuring the enchanting treehouse experience can be shared widely.
As a beacon of innovation and sustainable living, Spyglass joins the ranks of extraordinary treehouse projects like BIG’s birdhouse-covered hotel in Swedish Lapland. Yet, Spyglass stands out with its unique blend of luxury, imagination, and ecological sensitivity, inviting visitors to rediscover the wonder of nature and embrace the harmonious coexistence of architecture and the natural world.