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Tree house interior design


18 Treehouse Interiors You'll Love

By

Ashley Knierim

Ashley Knierim

Ashley Knierim is a home decor expert and product reviewer of home products for The Spruce. Her design education began at a young age. She has over 10 years of writing and editing experience, formerly holding editorial positions at Time and AOL.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

Updated on 07/08/20

Adam Crowley / Blend Images / Getty Images

If you had a treehouse as a kid, you probably have fond feelings of hiding away in the trees, reading a book, or planning an adventure in your own secret world. But just because you're no longer a child, doesn't mean you can't enjoy the feeling of being up in the trees. From elaborate getaway cabins to quaint treetop cottages like this one from canopycrew, treehouses for adults are popping up everywhere.

If you're looking for jaw-dropping inspiration to build your own adult-sized treehouse, we've rounded up 18 of our favorites that we'd love to build in our own backyards.

Treehouse ideas: 10 luxury designs to inspire you |

(Image credit: Getty Images/Main Company/Chirs Snook/Lanrick/Itago Media)

A childhood favorite, treehouse ideas are an often overlooked addition to the garden. We are all familiar with the small covered platform, nestled in the branches of a tree, accessed by a ladder or rope bridge – however, these simple designs are a world away from modern treehouse ideas.  

From round pods and castles through to multi-room designs featuring functioning kitchens and bathrooms, our treehouse ideas offer a characterful addition to your backyard landscaping ideas. Treehouses can also be used to alleviate space issues indoors, offering dream home office ideas, providing guest accommodation or even an extra income stream.

‘Everyone loves treehouses. They bring a smile to your face no matter how old or young you are. They add value to your property and make a stunning and fun feature in the garden. With everything that is going on in the world right now – having a safe place to retreat to in your own garden is even more important than ever,’ says Henry Durham, founder of High Life Treehouses .

When it comes to your treehouse design, approach them the same way as you would with any other garden room ideas. Focus on its purpose, whether that's entertaining, working or a place to play as this will define its look, feel and layout. Also, when designing the exterior of your treehouse, take into consideration the landscape and your pre-existing backyard ideas – especially if your treehouse ideas are likely to be visible from outdoors or in.

1. Get the exterior just right

(Image credit: Itago Media/Lanrick)

When deciding on your treehouse's exterior design, it is important that it blends into its surroundings. Opting for natural or reclaimed materials will help your treehouse to appear as though it has always been there – wood or stone are favorite choices and chime nicely with cabin decor ideas. However, even if you opt for a rustic exterior, this doesn't mean you can't embrace more luxury, sophisticated ideas inside.

2. Think about access

(Image credit: Getty Images)

How you are going to access your treehouse is a vital part of its initial design. There are lots of different options, from the classic ladder or rope bridge through to more formal stairs. 

The design you settle on will partially be informed by the purpose of your treehouse. If it is to host visitors, then a ladder might prove impractical with luggage or for those with more limited mobility. On the other hand, a rope ladder would be a popular choice for children who want the option of restricting access to their secret hideaway.  

(Image credit: Main Company/Chirs Snook)

Gone are the days of a treehouse just being an empty wooden structure, furnished with an old rug and deckchairs. Now, treehouse ideas can feature all the mod-cons of your main property from lighting ideas and running water through to gas, electric and heating. A log burning stove is a popular addition, not only providing heat but setting a cozy atmosphere, perfect for relaxing on a chilly evening. 

Apply the same design principles to your treehouse ideas as you would to the other rooms of your house, and draw on traditional decorating ideas to help create a warm and welcoming space.

4. Factor in amenities and provisions

(Image credit: Main Company/Chris Snook)

If you are planning to use your treehouse as guest accommodation or as a peaceful retreat away from your home, you need to think about amenities. Insulation and power are vital in creating a room that is usable all year round. The approach is similar to that of other outbuildings, ‘having a tiled, insulated roof will keep it warm in the winter and cool in the summer, with underfloor heating being a popular heating option,’ says Penny Whitlock, director at Julius Bahn .  

A stove, whether electric or wood-burning, also creates a cozy space inside. An electrician should be able to run a cable underground from your house, although if you’re looking for a more sustainable solution, consider solar panels on the roof.

There are plenty of small kitchen ideas that would work well as part of your treehouse design. This kitchen, supplied by The Main Company for Wild Escapes , features everything you would need for breakfast on the balcony. 

5. Install a deck around your treehouse

(Image credit: Lanrick/Itago Media)

If you're planning on building amongst the trees, it's important to factor in a space where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Drawing on deck ideas and building an encompassing outdoor space, will let you make the most of your treehouse's fabulous setting, though ensure you include sturdy deck railing ideas for safety. Pair with outdoor garden furniture for a space to enjoy al fresco meals, or set up a Jacuzzi for a space to unwind.

6. Take inspiration from luxury treehouse hotels 

(Image credit: Chewton Glen)

Treehouses have seen a rise in popularity as a popular vacation resort so why not take design inspiration from the professionals? This pretty treehouse accommodation at the beautiful Chewton Glen is a perfectly self-contained space, featuring an outdoor hot tub, wood burner, mini kitchenette and marble bathroom; it is a true home from home. 

7. Make space to bathe

(Image credit: Tawny)

Jump on board the recent trend of outdoor bathing with your treehouse ideas. Rather than adding a pool or hot tub, there has been a rise in the number of people who are taking their favorite bath ideas into nature. For a rustic and characterful bathing spot, discover how to create an outdoor bathroom in an intimate nook on your treehouse's decking.

8. Maximize windows to enjoy the views

(Image credit: Tawny)

If you've got beautiful views then it seems a shame to block them out with solid walls – instead factor areas of glazing into your treehouse. Consider adding patio door ideas leading to a deck area – which will flood the treehouse with light while also offering a stunning backdrop to your interior design.

9. Add a fire pit to your treehouse ideas

(Image credit: Blue Forest)

Fire pits are fast becoming a must in the garden, providing warmth and atmosphere in equal measure as well as deterring insects – letting you enjoy your outdoor space long into the evening. In a treehouse, as with any building made out of wood, you need to be careful when incorporating any sources of fire, whether inside or outside. However, with the right design you can incorporate a backyard fire pit into your treehouse ideas – just never leave the fire unattended and have a fire extinguisher close at hand, and never light open fires in dry zones where wildfires are a risk.

10. Don't forget the kids

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Even with all these luxury designs that are perfect extensions to the home, sometimes a treehouse can simply be a cute addition that provides a place to play. This quaint design would be perfect as part of backyard ideas for kids and is based on a traditional house featuring a red room and mock timber frame and would quickly become a favorite of the youngest members of the family. 

Is the treehouse a good idea?

Yes, the treehouse is a good idea for adults as well as children. A treehouse provides a great alternative to a playroom, or a quirky home office, or even guest accommodation. Much more characterful than your standard backyard building, a treehouse can bring all the same benefits, while also allowing you to extend your space without taking up a large footprint on the ground.

What does every treehouse need?

Every treehouse needs a roof, walls, flooring and access point (whether that's a ladder, rope bridge or similar). Everything else is optional and will depend on the style and purpose of your treehouse ideas. If you're planning to use your treehouse as accommodation – whether for guests or to be rented out – it will need insulation, water, gas and electric, all of which can be incorporated at the point of building.

Having graduated with a first class degree in English Literature four years ago, Holly started her career as a features writer and sub-editor at Period Living magazine, Homes & Gardens' sister title. Working on Period Living brought with it insight into the complexities of owning and caring for period homes, from interior decorating through to choosing the right windows and the challenges of extending. This has led to a passion for traditional interiors, particularly the country-look. Writing for the Homes & Gardens website as a content editor, alongside regular features for Period Living and Country Homes & Interiors magazines, has enabled her to broaden her writing to incorporate her interests in gardening, wildlife and nature. 

Interior of a wooden house inside with a photo - INMYROOM

Every year the popularity of wooden houses is growing, and this is no coincidence. Modern man is tired of the “industrial romance” of the design of the end of the last century. Brick walls and cold metal in the high-tech interior were replaced by the natural texture of wood. People again turned to nature for inspiration.

Design by Margarita Rasskazova

Features of creating an interior in a wooden house

A harmonious combination of interior and exterior decoration of a wooden house is an important nuance that should not be neglected. The architecture of the facade tells about the character of the owner no less than the interior of the premises. The unified style of the building creates a unique atmosphere filled with the magical energy of the forest.

Designed by Full House Design.

Wall decoration

Natural wood is an excellent option for interior decoration, it has thermoregulatory and absorbent properties. With proper processing of wooden walls, the air in the house becomes light, moderately humid. Natural environmentally friendly material creates a unique microclimate that has a beneficial effect on human health. nine0004

Architect Vadim Kondrashev. Bureau Archi‑do

The aesthetic perception of the interior depends on the quality and type of finish. A wide range of materials is presented on the modern construction market:

The photo shows a combination of different materials in the interior of a wooden house.

Architect Alexander Petunin and designer Anna Poleva. Palex-Stroy Company

Architect Alexander Petunin and designer Anna Poleva. Palex-Stroy Company

The nature of the room depends on the chosen color palette. Light shades, in particular white walls with undertones of pink, beige, cream, create an atmosphere of airy lightness, luxurious simplicity. Thanks to the tinting of the wood, the texture acquires an unusually attractive look. nine0004

Designer Yuliya Veselova

Interior styles

The modern interior of a wooden house is not limited to the “a la hut” style. And the word style itself does not mean strict adherence to certain rules. This gives a lot of room for creativity. Talented designers skillfully combine natural materials, textiles and modern technology, embodying bold ideas for furnishing.

Designers of the Arch.Object studio

Provence

The rustic charm of the provincial towns of France has conquered many hearts. Sweet romance with a dash of Parisian sophistication and lavender scent. Simple interior decoration and only natural materials - wood, terracotta tiles, natural stone. Rarely - simple paper wallpaper with a floral print. The decor is created by one's own hands - lace, homespun paths. The color palette is restrained, soft, as if burnt out in the sun - turquoise, ocher, blue, white. White and its shades are basic and dominate in this style. nine0003

Designer Varvara Zelenetskaya

Finnish style

A country with endless forests has left an indelible imprint on the interior of houses. There is a lot of air, light and space in the rooms. A snow-white ceiling with stucco, a fireplace in the living room, huge windows with light, translucent curtains. The space is zoned with simple wooden furniture. Mandatory attribute - cozy blankets and knitted pillows. The color scheme is modest. Milky white, blue, shades of terracotta and a little ocher. Finnish style for those who appreciate comfort and practicality. nine0004

Designer Maria Ivanova

Chalet style

Translated from French, chalet means “shepherd's house, hunter's house”. A duet of negligence and deliberate brutality. Logs on the walls and massive beams on the ceiling of a rough cabin are practically not processed, the natural texture is emphasized by water-based paint. On the floor - solid wood, in the kitchen and in the bathroom - natural stone tiles. A hearth or fireplace is required. Decor elements are animal skins on the floor and leather furniture, on the walls - hunting rifles, stuffed bears or deer, landscapes in simple frames. nine0004

Designer Yulia Churina

Russian style

Centuries-old traditions of the Russian people have enriched the interior with many characteristic details and features. The central place is occupied by the stove, in the modern version a la russe - a stylized fireplace with tiles. Furniture - heavy, massive. A high headboard by the bed, a sideboard with drawers, a long dining table with a samovar. Icons, light curtains on the windows, natural textiles with national embroidery are traditional for this style. nine0004

How to create a harmonious space with a Russian character, read the article.

Architects Olga Derevleeva and Ruslan Telegin

Advice! For several centuries, the Russian style has changed. Before starting the repair, you should decide which interior of which era you want to recreate.

English style

A trio of discreet nobility, aristocracy and luxury. The English style has several characteristic features:

Interior in the English style attracts attention with an abundance of textiles (curtains, pillows, furniture upholstery) and decor (portraits and mirrors in gilded frames, candlesticks, vases, busts, clocks). Color solutions are close to natural - sand, emerald green, bronze, terracotta, ivory.

Designer Valeriya Dankovskaya

Interior of rooms in a wooden house

Wood in the interior enchants with its natural beauty, creating an atmosphere of calm and tranquility. Natural material gives any room a chic look.

Below is a project of a farm-style country house by designer Julia Kalemi

Living room

Traditionally, the main decoration of the living room is a fireplace decorated with natural stone. Solid wood is used to finish the floor. On the ceiling - massive beams and lining. A sofa and soft armchairs add comfort. nine0003

Bedroom

The design of the bedroom sets you up for a good rest. The room is located away from the kitchen and office space. When choosing the color of furniture and textiles, restrained tones were preferred.

Nursery

Nursery is a small state. The interests and needs of the child must be taken into account. Here is a place for bright colors and unexpected shapes.

Kitchen

Due to the high humidity in the working area of ​​the kitchen, the walls were covered with decorative brick apron. The tabletop is treated with a water-repellent composition. The sink is located closer to the window. nine0004

Bathroom

The classic combination of wood, glass and stone is the perfect solution for the bathroom. Zest added wallpaper with floral patterns and paintings in silver frames.

Tip! When decorating the ceiling and floor, it is necessary to use moisture-resistant wood species (coniferous).

Attic

As a rule, the attic part is used as a lounge or billiard room. Natural lighting with spotlights will fill the space with light. nine0004

Optimal interior of a small wooden house

The small area of ​​the house is not an obstacle to creating a cozy and functional home. The combination of adjacent rooms and competent zoning will help fill the space with light and air.

Designers "Palex-Stroy"

In this video example you can see in detail how to equip a small house outside the city:

Photos of real projects

The interiors of modern wooden cottages in the photo are distinguished by a special atmosphere of comfort. The air is saturated with useful resins, a soft palette of colors, natural fabrics, cozy furniture, in which it is pleasant to spend the evenings. nine0004

A solid private wooden house is the dream of many residents of the metropolis. Natural materials create a special microclimate, give a feeling of peace. And it doesn't matter what style it's in. The main thing is harmony and unity with nature.

Architect Alexander Kravtsov

Design: Anna Ilyina, Figura architectural studio. Decorating - Ekaterina Korneeva

Designer Ilya Nasonov

Designer Tatiana Alenina . nine0004

style solutions, design ideas, photos - INMYROOM

there should be an interior of a wooden house made of timber, it is quite important. After all building a log house is not a cheap pleasure, so it would be it's a shame to spoil the noble beauty of natural wood with an ill-conceived and unsuccessful design. The interior of a wooden house cannot exist on its own. himself, apart from the building itself, its material and atmosphere. Harmony between appearance and interior decoration of wooden houses is extremely important. nine0004

Wooden house design: general rules

Whatever style you choose to create an interior, there are some general rules that will help emphasize all the charm and individual charm of a wooden house made of timber.

Because in such a house significant elements of the interior are the walls themselves, the floor and the ceiling, their should be visible because of the furniture, decor details. In a wooden house should be spacious, furniture should not occupy all the free space, and decor overshadow the beauty of natural wood. nine0004

Must be selected for natural finishes, natural materials such as natural stone, metal in the form of artistic forging, textiles, ceramics, etc. In the design of a log house simple, even rough furniture fits perfectly, the same applies to decor elements.

Colors usually does not differ in particular brightness and variety, however, you can use 1-2 bright accents. At the same time, furniture and decoration, as a rule, correspond to the color of the wall decoration, but it is chosen a little darker. nine0004

Log house design necessarily includes the competent organization of natural lighting, without which a house made of timber will be deprived of the sun, and with it a significant part of its natural charm.

Ideal future design interior space should be thought out even before the house is built, which will allow full use of its structural elements and correctly fit it into the interior.

The choice of style for a wooden house

A house made of timber will not "accept" every style, so the choice of a design that is appropriate in such a house must be taken with all responsibility. The following options are best suited:

Scandinavian style

It is characterized by minimalism and practicality in everything, the use of natural colors (white, beige, gray, etc.), the furniture is preferably light enough, for example, wicker or wood, but not heavy.

English style

Here, restraint and elegance are important in everything, wood is used in the decoration valuable species such as mahogany and bog oak (or at least their imitation), the floor and ceiling are done in dark colors, the furniture is chosen enough massive, but with soft, smoothed silhouettes. nine0004

Chalet Style

Original from the Alps, and therefore simplicity and solidity, characteristic of the house shepherd, built high in the mountains. This style is widely used wood as a finishing material, ceiling beams do not close, but serve element of decor, the fireplace - acting, not decorative - becomes one of the central details in the interior.

Russian style

He characterized by the simplicity and massiveness of its elements, which evoke associations with a village hut, simple wooden benches will harmoniously fit into it, chests, chests of drawers, and a fireplace can be decorated as a Russian stove. nine0004

Classic style

This is chic and sophisticated, it allows for rich colors, but the ceiling is usually made white. Parquet will be appropriate on the floor, they are actively used for wall decor fabrics, furniture is needed expensive and elegant, with curved legs, carved elements and gilded hardware. In addition, it is desirable to complement the interior with crystal, bas-reliefs, expensive paintings and striking clocks.

Modern style

It is characterized by simple lines, minimalism in everything, but at the same time with an accent on practicality and functionality, nothing superfluous, chromed metal and glass. nine0004

Hunting style

Usually used not for the whole house, but only for individual rooms, for example, for fireplace living room. It necessarily uses hunting trophies, paintings related scenes, etc.

After selecting one of the styles, do not forget that each house is individual and has its own characteristics and character. Therefore, rigid adherence to one particular style is not always useful, a harmonious combination of several styles can be much better or the inclusion of their elements in one main. nine0004

Living room decoration

Usually, a living room in a wooden house sets the mood for the whole interior. Here are some tips on how to decorate this room:

Kitchen design

Kitchen design can be designed in country style, rustic, fusion, neoclassic, Scandinavian, Provence. The walls are best left natural, log, but, depending on the style used, they are covered with plaster and painted. An apron in the kitchen is best made from ceramic tiles. Often it is laid out in a patchwork style - it goes well with a rustic style.

It is better to tile the floor in the kitchen at home, especially if there is a wood-burning stove here. nine0004

The kitchen window must not be left unattended. On the windowsill, you can organize a countertop as an additional work area or a bar counter, you can also install a sink here.

The kitchen has a lot of appliances and household appliances, so the wiring will be noticeable in a small room. To hide its unaesthetic, the wires are laid inside fireproof tubes. Then there are two options: attach them to the top of the ceiling bars (if the ceiling height allows), or close them with plasterboard sheets. There is another alternative: use retro-styled wiring. It looks very aesthetically pleasing and meets all fire safety requirements. nine0004

The kitchen area, combined with the living room, is better to visually highlight. To do this, use a bar counter, dining table or island. In addition, you can build a podium by slightly raising the kitchen.

Bedroom design

Like the whole design of a wooden house, it is recommended to design the interior of the bedroom while preserving the texture and pattern of natural wood. First, it is the perfect backdrop for a lot of accent details. Secondly, for healthy sleep, it is necessary to provide an environment filled with environmentally friendly materials. nine0004

Features of the bedroom design:

    1. If there are massive beams on the ceiling, the walls and floor are finished in light colors.

    2. When the bedroom is located on the south side, blue, pistachio, lilac shades can be used for painting surfaces. For the “northern” bedrooms, warm colors are used: beige, sand, yellow.

    3. It is better to cover natural wood on the ceiling, walls with matt varnish, because the glossy surface will need to be updated more often. nine0004

    4. For flooring use: solid or parquet board, laminate, cork material. The latter option organically fits into the modern design style.

    5. Ceiling options: clapboard, plasterboard suspended structure, beams or false beams.

    6. Textiles are very important for decorating a cozy bedroom. The choice of curtains, carpets, blankets and pillows depends on the interior design. For example, chalets and scandi suggest the presence of fur (artificial or natural) on the floor or bed, armchair. Country is knitted rugs. Provence is a textile with a delicate floral pattern, a lot of small pillows. nine0004

The bedroom is often located in the attic. At the same time, the ceiling has a very complex shape. Therefore, in order not to complicate the interior, the rest of the surfaces are made laconic: the walls are plastered and painted in a light color, the floor is also left light.

Selection of furniture for a wooden house

General recommendations when choosing furniture for home improvement made of wood:

  1. All items must be durable, massive, so as not to be lost against the background of timber trim. nine0004

  2. Where possible, furniture should be made of natural materials: wood, leather, stone.

  3. Upholstery preferred in neutral tones, one shade.

What kind of furniture to choose for each room?

Lighting in a wooden house

Lighting plays not only a practical role, but also performs a design function. In addition, with the right lighting, you can adjust the space: increase the area, “raise” the ceiling, hide the flaws of the room.

What kind of lighting can be used to complete all the required tasks?

To achieve optimal lighting in your home, it is recommended to combine different light sources.

Attention to detail

Thinking through the design of a log house inside (photos of already created interiors can help you a lot), you need to take into account all the details. Even the most wonderful design can cross out an inappropriate element, their unfortunate combination or poor-quality execution.

Here are some notes that will help not to be mistaken in details: