In Sonoma County, California, Spyglass by Hometree is the newest architectural marvel by Artistree Home. This stunning treehouse, finished in 2023, proves that luxury and environmental awareness coexist peacefully. Spyglass, a home that skillfully combines modern design with the allure of nature, is more than just a house; it's an homage to childhood imagination, tucked away in an 11-acre forestry sanctuary in Occidental.
A Whimsical Journey Above the Forest Floor
The genesis of Spyglass emanates from the whimsical childhood act of transforming a fallen leaf into a telescope to peer through. Will Beilharz, the project designer from Artistree Home, shared, "With a dynamic cut on either end, the cylindrical shape takes on the dynamic movement of the folded leaf." The result is a 300-square foot (28-square-meter) residence perched 25 feet (8 meters) above the ground, delicately supported by thin steel posts, minimizing environmental disruption.
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Design Harmony
At the heart of Spyglass stands a majestic redwood tree, cradling the deck structure that extends from a hillside with a single-step entry bridge. The exterior, adorned with rust-textured metal diamond shingles, mirrors the hues and textures of the surrounding redwood bark. This linear haven boasts a compact layout featuring an entry walkway, a pass-through kitchenette, and a bathroom adorned with penny-round tiles that gracefully follow the curve of the space.
The interior is a sanctuary of serenity, with tongue-and-groove paneling creating a seamless flow reminiscent of walking through a hollowed-out log. The living space extends to a back terrace with a cedar hot tub, immersing guests in the natural ambiance. The back wall, entirely glazed, frames nature as it overlooks the towering tree at the center of the terrace, enhancing the immersive forest experience.
Luxury Meets Sustainability
Spyglass not only enchants with its design but also stands as a symbol of sustainability. The exterior wood cladding, crafted from PEFC-certified and thermally modified Thermory Scots Pine, exudes elegance while adhering to environmentally conscious practices. A heat pump water heater and three layers of insulation featuring Hempwool batts and closed-cell spray foam underscore the commitment to a reduced carbon footprint.
"We designed our Spyglass unit to be both luxurious and replicable, offering it as a pre-fab unit with adaptability to the property's terrain and surrounding trees," Beilharz emphasized. The building blends in perfectly with the surrounding landscape, guaranteeing that architecture and surroundings coexist peacefully.
As Beilharz aptly stated, "Never underestimate the impact of whimsy in design." Spyglass transcends the conventional definition of a dwelling; it's an invitation to a spa-like sanctuary intertwined with the exhilaration of a playground. The innovative design encapsulates calming tranquility and exciting discovery, echoing the essence of childhood treehouse adventures.
Essentially, Spyglass by Hometree is a living example of how creative design, opulence, and sustainable living coexist- it's more than just a treehouse. Upon entering this whimsical space, guests are taken on a journey that skillfully combines the wild beauty of nature with the sophistication of architecture.
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