When a house is designed and constructed around an existing tree, allowing the tree to grow inside the house, it is commonly referred to as a “treehouse”. However, true treehouses are structures built up in the branches of a living tree, while houses built at ground level around a tree have some more specific names. Building a home around an existing tree has some challenges, but can also create a unique and beautiful living space if done properly. In this article, we’ll look at the terms used for houses built around trees, considerations when planning and constructing them, and some famous examples of beautiful tree-centered homes.
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What Terms Are Used for Houses Built Around Trees?
There are a few different terms used when referring to a house that incorporates one or more mature, living trees:
Arbor House
An arbor house is a house that is built around a tree and allows it to grow inside the structure. “Arbor” refers to a shaded garden retreat or leafy passageway, so an arbor house uses a tree to create a natural, outdoor feel inside the home. The tree emerges through an opening in the floor and ceiling, extending through one or more levels of the home.
Encinar House
An encinar house is a Spanish term, named after the encino tree (also known as the holm oak). Encinar houses are built around oak trees in Spain and Latin America. The encino’s thick trunk helps support the structure.
Stilt House
A stilt house is elevated on stilts or pillars to allow trees to grow underneath. The floor is built above ground level to make room for the tree without damaging the root system. Stilt houses are common in tropical areas and can incorporate several trees growing up through the structure.
Platform House
Similar to a stilt house, a platform house is built on an elevated platform with trees left in place underneath. The platform allows the tree trunks to emerge through the floor. This type of design provides open, usable space under the home.
Considerations for Building Around Trees
Building a house around an existing tree takes careful planning and construction methods. Here are some key considerations:
Tree Health
The tree should be large, mature, and in good health to become a centerpiece of the home. Damage during construction could kill the tree, so it’s ideal to use established, hardy specimen trees. Oaks, maples, magnolias, and certain evergreens can be good choices.
Root Protection
It’s crucial to avoid harming the tree’s root system during construction. Choose a location for the foundation and layout that leaves ample space for roots. Use retaining walls, root bridges, or cantilevered flooring designs to protect the roots.
Structural Design
The home’s architecture must account for the tree as a design element. Open floor plans allow the tree to be viewed from different angles. Upper levels may need to be built around spreading branches. Large beams, posts, and specialized foundations support the weight of the structure.
Moisture and Insulation
Trees release moisture through their bark and leaves. Proper insulation, vapor barriers, and ventilation keep moisture from accumulating indoors. Weather stripping around the tree trunk helps seal gaps.
Maintenance
Ongoing tree maintenance (pruning, disease management, etc.) prevents damage to the home. Gutters, screens, and nets keep leaves and debris controlled. Periodic inspections ensure the tree and home remain structurally sound.
Famous Examples of Houses Built Around Trees
Integrating a full-grown tree into a home’s architecture creates a uniquely beautiful and organic interior space. Here are a few famous houses designed around mature, living trees:
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Duncan House
This iconic Wright-designed home in Acme, Michigan envelopes a stately beech tree in the main living area. The tree extends up through an opening in the low-angled roof. Built in 1959, it demonstrates Wright’s harmony with nature principles.
The Treehouse in Taketomi Island, Japan
Built on stilts around a twisting banyan tree, this island treehouse perfectly blends tropical architecture with a living tree. It provides shaded outdoor space under the home.
The Toronto Maple Tree House
This unique Toronto high-rise apartment incorporates a large maple tree through an opening in the central floor area. The surrounding floors and balconies are designed around the tree’s canopy.
HemLoft Treehouse
Crafted around a towering evergreen tree in Whistler, British Columbia, this cozy treehouse cabin was constructed with minimal disruption to the forest. The living space and loft platform sit lightly upon the tree’s thick trunk.
Bart Prince’s Treehouse in Hawaii
Designed by architect Bart Prince, this Hawaiian home is named the Treehouse Residence for its complex design wrapped around two palm trees. The multi-level house spirals out from the tree trunks.
Building Code Considerations
Incorporating a living tree into a home’s structure can create challenges when it comes to building codes:
Structural Requirements
With trees exerting significant pressures, the home’s structure must be engineered to meet code standards for wind shear, seismic activity, and loading stresses. Special foundations, frames, and braces may be required.
Electrical Clearances
Electrical lines, fixtures, and devices need clearances from tree branches. Most codes require at least 3 feet of separation horizontally and vertically from electrical systems.
Fire Safety
Openings around tree trunks and branches could allow fire to spread. Proper fire-rated sealing, sprinklers, and smoke detectors help mitigate risks. Fire-resistant trees like oaks are preferable.
Insurance Restrictions
Standard home insurance policies may exclude or restrict coverage for damage caused by a living tree inside the home. Shopping around for companies familiar with arbor houses can help alleviate issues.
Permit Requirements
Building departments may require additional paperwork, plans, or permits for arbor houses. Early collaboration with code officials streamlines the permitting process before construction.
Conclusion
A house thoughtfully designed around a mature, healthy tree can create a beautiful, natural focal point and living space. When done properly using careful construction techniques that protect the tree and structural integrity of the home, arbor houses, encinar houses, and other tree-centered residences merge nature with modern architecture in amazing ways. While requiring special planning, supports, and maintenance, the effect of having a living tree or trees incorporated seamlessly into a home is stunning.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Arbor House | A house built around a tree, allowing it to grow inside |
| Encinar House | A Spanish house built around oak trees |
| Stilt House | A house on stilts or pillars with trees underneath |
| Platform House | A house on an elevated platform around trees |