Unique Low Impact Treehouse
The so-called Dom’Up is an innovative treehouse, which is easy to install, and has virtually no impact on the trees used to support it. It was created by Holland-based arborculturist Bruno de Grunne and architect Nicolas d’Ursel from the organization Trees and People. The treehouse can be used as an alternative to the classic treehouse, for glamping, or even as a treetop office, resort or even a cool restaurant.
The Dom’Up is a lightweight, UV-resistant canvas tent shelter that stretches over a 172 square foot (16 sq m) octagonal platform. The treehouse is suspended using Trees and People’s No Trace arboreal fixing system, which was designed with the idea of utilizing space between trees, rather than a single tree, since the former offers more space. Using more that one tree to support the structure also means the weight can be distributed more equally and therefore having very little negative impact on them.
The Dom’Up also features protective roofing, which is made from durable thermo-welded tarpaulin. The treehouse is quite spacious as well. It features an open interior space, which can act as both the living area and the bedroom. There is also a terrace at the front, which is large enough to accommodate a bed.
The skeleton of Dom’Up is made from galvanized steel, while the interior features natural wooden flooring. The treehouse also features external railing around the structure for additional safety and security. The wooden floors can also be removed and reinstalled, to prevent them from rotting in the winter or rainy periods. The house is accessible via a wooden ladder with handrails, custom made stairs, or a suspension bridge, depending on the site where it is placed.
According to the designers, the durability of the treehouse depends on the weather conditions, though they are certain the structure and tent will last for at least ten years. However, the suspension system ropes and straps should be replaced every five years. Dom’Ups ship worldwide, and cost roughly US$28,215 excluding installation. The latter needs to be done by an arborist or a member of the Trees and People network.