VISION

The tree that dominates our small building plot defines the vision for the house.

The form of the house is in part a necessary response to the presence of the tree. As we could not build within five metres of the tree, the front of the house is set back from the line of the neighbouring terrace and appears to clasp the tree.

The design of the house is also an aesthetic response to the form of the tree. The staircase that curves up the front of the house is clad in durable timber, creating a trunk-like form. In the big open-plan room at the top of the house, exposed branch-like trusses hold up the roof. The windows on the front elevation suggest a rising movement of light piercing a canopy. Wood and foliage are intimately felt throughout the building.

Above all, this is a house that will work like a tree. Trees are remarkable sustainable structures. They are perfectly adapted to the natural environment in which they flourish, coping admirably with heat, cold and dessication. They are brilliantly engineered to withstand severe mechanical stress. They are powered entirely by solar energy. They are built from beautiful, sustainable materials. They produce no harmful waste and turn all their waste products into valuable nutrients. They are perfectly integrated into the wider ecosystem and support a diversity of flora and fauna.

This is the vision for Tree House. Rather than beginning with standard practice and aiming to do better, we chose to begin with the best possible practice and have sought to meet it. This has not been easy but it has certainly been worthwhile. Begin with compromises and more will follow; begin with a strong vision and compromises are that much easier to overcome.

Trees are symbols of life and abundance, enhancing our quality of life wherever we live. Tree House not only has the highest possible environmental specification, it is also a joy to live in.