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Treehouse getaways
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New treehouses of the world
Pete Nelson.
New York : Abrams, 2009.
In this follow up to "Treehouses of the World," world-renowned treehouse designer and builder Nelson takes readers on an exciting, international tour of more than 35 new treehouses, and reveals how they are designed, constructed, and appreciated in a wide array of cultures.
     
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Ultimate guide to kids' play structures and tree houses : 10 easy-to-build, fun projects
Jeff Beneke, Steve Wilson.
Upper Saddle River, NJ : Creative Homeowner, c2008.
  1. At head of title: Creative Homeowner
  2. Includes index.
     
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Treehouses and other cool stuff : 50 projects you can build
David and Jeanie Stiles ; designs and illustrations by David Stiles.
Layton, Utah : Gibbs Smith, Publisher, c2008.
Includes bibliographical references (p. 135-136).
     
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Backyards for kids
by Ziba Kashef and the editors of Sunset Books.
Menlo Park, CA : Sunset Pub. Corp., c2008.
Give them room to roam outdoors and fun places to play and youll create backyard memories that will last a lifetimewith the added benefit of getting kids away from their computers and video games. Like its successful predecessor, Kids Places to Play, Backyards for Kids is loaded with ideas and how-to instruction for building projects like swing sets and treehouses, with innovative ideas for integrating play areas into the overall landscape design that adults will appreciate as well. Author Ziba Kashef, who has a young son, was editor in chief of Pregnancy magazine and was also previously on the editorial staff at McCalls and Parenting magazines. Features:
     

Treehouses are not only for children. A fantasy getaway high in the trees appeals to  imaginative adults. Our ancestors used trees as safe havens to keep animals and flood waters at bay. Perhaps it is that history, part of our collective memory, that explains the lure of the treehouse. Or maybe treehouses spark ideas of fun and adventure, a respite from adult responsibilities. Regardless of why, treehouses built to serve adults are popping up all over the country.

Arboreal hideaways are commonly designed to provide a getaway for contemplation or quiet activities. Builders are outfitting them with fanciful furnishings that aid leisurely enjoyment. Some treehouses are used as an office and as such are specially designed to be a supportive work space. Treehouses for entertaining are less common but are part of the trend. Many have electricity to provide heat, light, and power to the many small appliances that make the place comfortable.

The trees of Plessy-Robinson just west of Paris became famous in the mid-19th century for their arboreal restaurants. Parisans traveled out of the hot city to enjoy meals in the cool, refreshing atmosphere of the treetops.

Waiters served the food on a tray that was hoisted up to the diners by pulley. Each course was sent up by basket to the more than 200 tables high in the trees. 

Simple one room treehouses or elaborate ones with multiple stories will be attractive—it all depends on the design and details. A rustic finish will blend the house with its tree support, and with sensitive placement, a treehouse can look as though it grew up with the tree. Porches, stairways, and walkways can be part of a treehouse to expand space and make it more useful.

Treehouses provide a charming structure in which to dream, work, or play. Investigate the many designs out there and plan one for your yard!

Article by: St. Louis Public Library staff