In Residence: Jim Olson – inside the architect’s treetop house

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ANOTHER OFF GRID TREEHOUSE

Climb up to the Seattle-based architect and founder of Olson Kundig’s 14-foot by 14-foot treetop house in Longbranch, Washington.

How did Jim Olson integrate the treetop house into the surrounding forest?

In Residence: Jim Olson – Inside the Architect’s Treetop House

The treetop house of Jim Olson, a renowned Seattle architect, is a testament to the perfect harmony between architecture and nature. Located on a densely wooded 3.5-acre site on Puget Sound, the residence is a unique and stunning creation that appears to be seamlessly integrated into the surrounding forest.

Olson, the founder of the Seattle-based architecture firm Olson Kundig, designed the house himself, and it has become one of his most famous works. Completed in 2012, the house sits atop a ravine, providing breathtaking views of the forest below and the sound beyond.

The house is designed to be connected with the forest—literally. The main living spaces provide commanding views of the trees and water below, as well as a glimpse of Mount Rainier in the distance. The walls of the house are full height, floor-to-ceiling glass panels that blur the boundary between inside and out.

The living spaces of the house are arranged around a central courtyard, which is lined with floor-to-ceiling glass panels that can be folded away, creating a seamless transition between the interior and exterior spaces. The courtyard features a reflecting pool that mirrors the trees above, creating a tranquil and serene atmosphere.

The interior of the house is clean and minimalist, with flooring and cabinetry made of locally sourced materials, and a unique ceiling that is clad in cedar shingles, evoking the feeling of being inside a tree. The living spaces are warm and inviting, with a variety of seating arrangements that encourage relaxation and social interaction.

The house also features several inviting outdoor spaces, including a rooftop deck that provides panoramic views of the surrounding forest and sound. The deck is sheltered by a large overhang, which provides shade and shelter from the elements.

The treetop house of Jim Olson is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture, showcasing the beauty of modern design and the majesty of nature. It is a testament to Olson’s belief that good design should enhance the lives of those who use it, and to his commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. For those lucky enough to experience it, the house is an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression on the mind and the spirit.

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