Nestled within a grove of palm trees by the sea like a boat tossed onto shore during a storm, now moored to the trees with sails billowing in the breeze.

The treehouse borrows from naval architecture — structural rib-and-shell, gangway, anchor lines, and compact interior. Another inspiration is that of a coconut — a roughly hewn exterior contrasting with a smooth interior.

The upper deck contains a kitchen, dining and lounge, while below deck the bedroom and washroom have woven bamboo walls, letting in breeze and filtering sunlight. A lining of translucent waterproof fabric glides along tracks attached to structural ribs to offer privacy and protection from the elements. The house is self-sufficient, harvesting solar, rain, and waste.

International Competition Winner

© Studio Garneau