Treehouse

The Studebakers outfitted the tree house with cozy quilts, vintage furniture, warm rugs and whimsical accessories. The tree's long limbs wind their way through the interior.

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The shape of this 100-year-old California coast live oak just begged to hold a tree house.

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The family repurposed as much of the construction material as possible. A neighbor donated the worn clapboard siding, which ties the tree house's style to the main home's redwood siding. Vintage windows — including some with stained glass — and salvaged French doors make the structure feel more like a home.

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A vintage chandelier and several bedside lamps light the interior. Running electricity into the treehouse required the help of an electrician friend. Wiring also allowed for ecofriendly heating, Wi-Fi and cable.

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Two bunks provide sleeping space. A glass dormer inspired by one on the family's garage allows the east-facing light to flow through the home.

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Plenty of windows, including some that can be opened, allow for natural light and air movement. A TV nestled at the top of the front door is visible from both beds.

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Decks wrap around three sides of the tree house to allow guests to step out and fully experience this stunning tree.

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Now that the family rents out the tree house, it's become even more of a treasure. "In recent years, this tree house has proven to be sort of a Field of Dreams experience for our family," says Doug. "When we built it over a decade ago, we had no idea that it would bring such special guests from around the world to experience it for a couple days and nights." Most leave notes, stories, illustrations or photographs of the parts that they loved the most.

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This two-flight-stairs approach added stability, intrigue and safe access to our whimsical structure," says Doug. "How a tree house is accessed is an important and creative aspect of the overall design. Making access subtle and not entirely obvious adds to the intrigue and specialness."

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Tree house. Why should kids have all the fun? This tree house was designed with kids and grownups in mind — it’s equipped to handle sleepovers and dinner parties.

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Here you can see the tree house deck, with a lovely spot for sitting and enjoying the view

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