Tree House: Phase 1A

The bigger the boys, the bigger the toys.
When siblings regroup, they often regress.

Armed with this enabling knowledge, Loren and I set out with our cordless tools and laser levels to build a tree house. Why? See above. Officially, the justification is for the children and grandchildren. That’s our story and we're sticking to it.

Loren cleared a trail from the house, across the old stone dam, through the brush to a tree near the pond. The first day consisted of the requisite environmental impact assessments (can we throw a stone from the tree house to the pond) and site preparation (removing dead branches and bees nests).

The architectural design and bill of materials was completed (yellow sticky note), and purchases made. The beams and joists started going up.

Nick dropped around and helped with some chainsaw work and lumber tossing.

Yes, from the tree house you can see the water, and the wildlife (Not me, the deer behind me.).

The nearly finished decking.

Here’s the big picture, the grand scheme, the pie-in-the-sky dream.
Phase 1: The Great Viranda. This will serve as the main entertaining and play area. Will provide access to main living quarters.
Phase 1A: The deck – is nearly complete.
Phase 1B: Access – ideas include everything from a ladder to a spiral staircase.
Phase 1C: Railing – probably will consist of small logs and strategically and artistically placed branches.

Phase 2: A fully enclosed shelter with access porch located in central part of the tree 5’ – 10’ above the level of the Great Viranda. Will include sleeping and dining area. Equipped with a reversible clubhouse sign, “No girls allowed/No boys allowed”.

All ideas are welcome and contributions of labor and materials will be accepted.