Top 62+ Alluring Basic Tree House Design For Every Budget

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Do you want to build your own tree house from scratch – but don’t know where to start? Tree houses can be fantastic additions to any home’s living space, but getting it right in terms of design is often the biggest challenge. To make it easier for you, we’ve rounded up the latest and greatest basic tree house designs for you to check out! We've included options for every type of tree, materials, and budget.

Simple Tree House Designs

Have you ever wanted a place to go to get away from the hustle and bustle of the everyday life? A simple tree house design allows you to create a space that is not only functional, but also aesthetically pleasing. With a few tools and supplies, you can turn any area with a few trees into a haven of peace and relaxation. Whether you are a skilled woodworker or looking to simply execute a basic plan, there are a few elements to consider when designing a simple tree house.

The first step is to determine where the tree house should be located and what tree or trees will be used to support it. It is important to be mindful of the houses location, ensuring that it is not too close to the edge of a busy street or to large trees that may easily topple over. Next, it is time to draw up your plans. Sketch out the size, shape, and type of materials you wish to use. If desired, enlist the help of an expert handyman who can help ensure it is safe and structurally sound. When finished, use pressure-treated lumber to construct the frame of the tree house.

Once the frame is set, floorboards should be added. The breadth here is up to the builder. Depending on the style and complexity of the tree house, a wide variety of materials can be used. Experiment with a range of materials such as wood, metal, rope, or even flooring tiles. Lastly, the finishing touches need to be added. These may include a ladder, a railing to ensure safety, windows, insulation, and any furnishings. Be as creative as you're comfortable with, as the design is completely up to you!

Simple Tree House Designs

Tree House Cabin Designs

For those who want a tree house with slightly more amenities, there’s the option of a cabin design. This tree house style allows you to create a separate living space off the ground with a kitchen, bathroom, and other features. Cabin designs can be easily customized with finished walls, flooring, insulation, and electricity if desired. To construct one of these, first start by considering the size of the cabin. Take into account how much space is available and the tree’s weight capacity. Next, build the floorframe structure and attach it securely to the tree with large threaded brackets. The walls should also be securely attached, while the roof should be slanted and built separately.

When the basic structure of the tree house is complete, the interior and exterior can be upgraded with tailoring to your preferences. Real or synthetic wood panels can be used for the walls, while interlocking floor tiles can be used for the floors. Finish up with a railing and a door on the entrance side. Depending on the ambition of the project, electricity and plumbing can also be added. By the end of the project, you’ll have a beautiful living space that allows you to stay connected with nature while still enjoying the amenities of a home.

Tree House Cabin Designs

Backyard Tree House Designs

For those short on space but still eager to explore the world of tree house construction, a backyard design might be the ideal project. This tree house style is simple to construct and doesn’t require very much lumber or complicated tools. After building a rectangle-shaped floorframe that covers the majority of the available space, reinforce the structure of the floor and walls with long threaded brackets. To save lumber, use thin sheets of plywood for the walls, while heavier materials like cedar and redwood can be used for the flooring.

To complete your backyard tree house design choose something that makes it stand out; perhaps a bright contrasting roof shade or vibrant colors for the walls. To help make the floor more comfortable, add a few cushions or rugs if desired. To ensure safety, install a railing and an easy-to-climb ladder. Have fun and offer family and friends the chance to join in making the backyard tree house their own. After it’s finished, it will be a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery in your own private backyard haven.

Backyard Tree House Designs

Modern Tree House Designs

Modern tree house designs are perfect for anyone looking to create something completely unique and original. Oftentimes, designs crafted with modern elements require more complex plans and superior skills. Begin by brainstorming some exciting ideas and converting those ideas into drawings. Be sure to take into account the number of trees needed to support the structure, as well as the maximum weight that can be held by them. After obtaining the necessary permits, plans, and specifications, start by setting the roof beam over an area or tree of the desired size.

The floor should be raised to allow for necessary movement. Be sure to build the main frame of the floor at least 6 inches outside of the tree trunk to prevent further damage. For the outer walls, create triangle shaped forms to add character to the house. To complete the project, install windows, shutters, and shingles to make the tree house look more modern and sophisticated. As mentioned previously, modern tree house designs require a bit more work and expertise and if you’re new to this type of project, it’s typically advisable to get help from a professional.

Modern Tree House Designs

Cottage Tree House Designs

A cottage tree house is the perfect blend between the hard work of a cabin design and the simplicity of a backyard tree house. These designs add more intricate details such as peaked roofs, Victorian style windows, and more to give the overall structure a distinctive look. When beginning a project of this scale, it is best to find the perfect tree or group of trees. It should have a flat surface that allows easy access to the tree house without much effort. Ideally, it should have branches that are strong enough to hold the structure of your house.

Start by using thick wooden logs to make the frame for the floor and walls. Make sure to reinforce the structure with strong bolts to ensure that it can hold the weight of your desired materials. As far as the walls go, wood-paneled siding or cedar shingles are best for this type of tree house. For the roof, use wood shakes, shingles, or metal materials that offer great insulation. To give it the cottage look, windows and a porch can be added. Although it will require an extensive planning process and professional help when needed, the cottage tree house will have a rustic yet modern appeal that your family can enjoy for years to come.

Cottage Tree House Designs

Rustic Tree House Designs

If you're looking for a unique and creative tree house design, consider exploring the world of rustic tree houses. When crafted with authenticity, you can create a perfect blend of old-fashioned charm and modern convenience. To get started on a fluffy lodge or a shabby chic hideaway, select the perfect tree that will support your desired structure. Build the platform or deck with thick wood and reinforce it with metal brackets to ensure the frame will be safe and secure.

Move on to the walls and use reclaimed wood or wood planks made of Douglas fir or cedar for a rustic feel. The roof should have a steep pitch to prevent water from pooling on the surface, and use roof shingles to keep the tree house water resistant; metal sheets are also an option for additional stability. To make your rustic tree house a home away from home, add comfortable furniture, unique accessories such as glass lanterns, or hang a hammock for relaxing days spent outdoors. Overall, rustic tree house designs are perfect for those wanting a remotely-located living area with a unique feel.

Rustic Tree House Designs

Victorian Tree House Designs

Incorporating the elegance of Victorian architecture to a tree house design can created the ultimate luxury hideaway. The intricate details, pitched roofs, and soft curves offer a nice contrast to the stark look of other tree house projects. Begin by selecting the perfect tree or trees for your tree house – if you use more than one, ensure that the branches from each tree are spaced far enough away from each other to support the additional weight of the structure. When constructing the house, consider using aluminum or steel for the floorframe, as this will require minimal maintenance.

Move on to building the walls, and be sure to use materials that are designed to stand up to the elements. As for the more detailed elements of the project, choose attractive spindles for the railing, intricate carvings for the door, and choose materials such as copper and bronze to achieve the Victorian-age charm. If your budget allows, installing modern comforts such as electricity and heat will surely make your tree house the envy of the neighborhood.

Victorian Tree House Designs

Tree House Family Room Designs

To make your tree house a great hangout spot for the entire family, a family room design is ideal. This type of tree house design is perfect for those looking for something spacious rather than cramped or cluttered. To start building the structure, select stout trees that are robust enough to hold the weight of the additional materials. Begin by constructing a long platform that will be the family room’s floor. As mentioned earlier, use metal or steel frames and threaded brackets for added stability.

For the exterior of the family room tree house, wood paneling or cedar shingles are best suited for this type of project. As far as walls, use large, eight-foot planks or receptive insulation to give it a more relaxed and cozy feel. For the roof struck with vents, a metal roof is highly recommended as it offers remarkable ventilation as well as cools the room in overall. Lastly, complete the project with furniture that will be suitable for the type of activities you have in mind. With great attention to detail and customization, you will soon have an ideal tree house for your family to enjoy.

Tree House Family Room Designs

Outdoor Tree House Designs

For those looking to get back to their outdoor roots, an outdoor tree house design is an entertaining project. Start by surveying the site for the tree house, and find a sturdy tree or group of trees that can easily support the weight of the structure. If building a high tree house, a skilled helper can be of assistance during this process to help pick the ideal route way up for the staircase. To build the tree house, use pressure-treated wood and design the platform at least six inches wider than the support tree or trees.

To ensure safety, devise a railing system and outdoor windows. As for the walls, use thick wood, aluminum, or fiberglass panels that provide extra protection while also offering ventilation. After that, install a roof and choose materials such as metal, asphalt, or hard wood shingles. Lastly, complete the design with some customizations such as a fun wooden climbing ladder to make your tree house look like it's out of a fairy tale! This kind of tree house will make for a great spot to unwind and watch the world go by from a different angle.

Outdoor Tree House Designs

Small Tree House Designs

For those with smaller yards, a small tree house design may be more suitable for a quick weekend project. To start building the small structure, pick a tree or find a few nearby trees that are suitable for the task. Attach the frame and floorboards to the tree and reinforce the frame with metal brackets. Once the floor is complete, choose something like plywood or wood paneling for the walls and use solid materials for the roof. You can also choose to use tiles, shingles, or any other type of roofing materials of your choice.

To complete the project, add details such as window frames, shutters and decorative hardware. For extra insulation, add resilient foam or cotton batting between the walls. Have fun and customize the entrance and add something like a rope ladder, or add a platform to use the tree house as a deck. All in all, this kind of design is perfect for those tight on space and budget.

Small Tree House Designs

Framework

Basic Tree House Design The framework of a treehouse is the supporting structure that will ensure a safe and secure treehouse for years to come. Lay out the floor joists across the posts and secure them with lag screws. Using 2x6 boards for the floor joists adds strength and creates a sturdier support system. Place plywood over the joists in order to build the floor and secure plywood down across the joists with 2" screws.

Loading and Anchorage

Basic Tree House Design The weight of the treehouse should be carried by the tree itself. Treehouse bolts are recommended for anchoring the structure into the tree trunk. It is important to consider the load that the tree is taking on. Too small of bark coverage can result in the treehouse being too heavy for the tree, potentially resulting in it falling.

Treehouse Bolts

Basic Tree House Design Treehouse bolts consist of a large diameter eye bolt, a washer, a nut, and a turnbuckle. Each component helps support a strong and secure connection between the tree and the treehouse. Begin by drilling a hole into the tree, we recommend ½ - ¾ inch in diameter, depending on the size of the bolt you are using. Feed the eye bolt into the hole and secure the washer. Tighten a nut to the other side and the eye bolt is now secure in the trunk of the tree. Attach the frame of the treehouse to the eye bolt. Using the turnbuckle, the treehouse frame can be adjusted and tightened into the bolt.

Inspections

Basic Tree House Design It is important to inspect the treehouse regularly for any potential safety issues. A treehouse inspection should include checking for wear, tear, and dismantling of fasteners. Make sure all connections are secure. Look for sawdust and other signs of the tree crushing, which is an indication of a broken treehouse bolt. Make sure the tree is in good condition, with no visible rot, cracks, or diseased branches. HTML Code:

Framework

Basic Tree House Design The framework of a treehouse is the supporting structure that will ensure a safe and secure treehouse for years to come. Lay out the floor joists across the posts and secure them with lag screws. Using 2x6 boards for the floor joists adds strength and creates a sturdier support system. Place plywood over the joists in order to build the floor and secure plywood down across the joists with 2" screws.

Loading and Anchorage

Basic Tree House Design The weight of the treehouse should be carried by the tree itself. Treehouse bolts are recommended for anchoring the structure into the tree trunk. It is important to consider the load that the tree is taking on. Too small of bark coverage can result in the treehouse being too heavy for the tree, potentially resulting in it falling.

Treehouse Bolts

Basic Tree House Design Treehouse bolts consist of a large diameter eye bolt, a washer, a nut, and a turnbuckle. Each component helps support a strong and secure connection between the tree and the treehouse. Begin by drilling a hole into the tree, we recommend ½ - ¾ inch in diameter, depending on the size of the bolt you are using. Feed the eye bolt into the hole and secure the washer. Tighten a nut to the other side and the eye bolt is now secure in the trunk of the tree. Attach the frame of the treehouse to the eye bolt. Using the turnbuckle, the treehouse frame can be adjusted and tightened into the bolt.

Inspections

Basic Tree House Design It is important to inspect the treehouse regularly for any potential safety issues. A treehouse inspection should include checking for wear, tear, and dismantling of fasteners. Make sure all connections are secure. Look for sawdust and other signs of the tree crushing, which is an indication of a broken treehouse bolt . Make sure the tree is in good condition, with no visible rot, cracks, or diseased branches.

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