A Detached Treehouse Extension Guarded By A Backyard Tree

This is the Taringa Treehouse, a structure with an interesting name and an interesting design. It was built in the backyard of an existing house in Brisbane, Australia. You can tell that something’s up just by looking towards it from out in the street. The first thing one notices is the pointy roof which then reveals that the building is long, tall and narrow.

Although technically not a treehouse, this structure is nestled among trees and in close touch with nature
Although technically not a treehouse, this structure is nestled among trees and in close touch with nature
The structure was shaped by the garden and the large tree that sits next to it
The structure was shaped by the garden and the large tree that sits next to it

Although it has the word treehouse in its name, defining this project is not that easy. It’s a small and unusually-shaped version of a house and there’s a large tree right next to it so, in a way, it actually is a treehouse. However, it would be more accurate to describe it as a detached house extension. It was built by Phorm Architects.

The building was designed to serve as a freestanding extension of the main house
The building was designed to serve as a freestanding extension of the main house
It's tall and narrow and you can see some of it from the street
It’s tall and narrow and you can see some of it from the street

Despite being an extension, this building is not linked to the main house in any way. It’s a completely detached structure and it wasn’t built using the same materials, architectural style or forms that define the residence. It has its own character and that makes it special. The extension is a quiet sanctuary, a retreat in the garden that can be used for various purposes. It can be a great place to relax in or to entertain guests but it can also serve as an office/ workspace.

The ground floor spaces open to the garden and they're also linked to a wooden deck
The ground floor spaces open to the garden and they’re also linked to a wooden deck
The interior is very simple, reminiscent of a child's treehouse
The interior is very simple, reminiscent of a child’s treehouse

The interior of this unique house extension is simple. The spaces are informal and small and that makes them feel cozy and inviting. There’s a big difference between a typical treehouse and this one and that has to do with the presence of windows and large openings that bring light in while also framing the views.

The shadow silhouettes of the trees can be seen through the staircase wall
The shadow silhouettes of the trees can be seen through the staircase wall

The ground wall opens to a veranda and as a close connection with the garden and in particular to the large tree that stands beside it like a guardian. Upstairs there’s a loft-like space, with one area serving as an office. A custom desk was built in to fit in the corner and in front of the large windows.

Upstairs, a custom-designed desk is positioned in front of the large window
Upstairs, a custom-designed desk is positioned in front of the large window
This is no typical treehouse and you can tell that by how bright and light-filled it is
This is no typical treehouse and you can tell that by how bright and light-filled it is

Even with such an odd shape, the extension is not that unusual once you step inside. The abundance of wood, the warm and neutral colors, the multitude of windows and the close connection with the garden allow it to be very inviting and comfortable. The interior design style is simple but with a hint of sophistication and that adds charm to every space.

The bathroom has a skylight above the shower and a pretty high ceiling
The bathroom has a skylight above the shower and a pretty high ceiling