Welcome to our gallery highlighting the extraordinary, subtly complex Tree House project, a home designed by MF Architecture.
This home design is seen through the lens of balanced shade, dappled sunlight, and tree canopy views. Each interior space has a unique relationship to this unifying concept.
The warmly considered materials, surfaces, and finishes of this build result in a project that balances sophistication and subtlety. The main hub is a two story structure that makes for an eye-catching street presence, while a pair of single-story wings extend back into the site, enclosing an intimate courtyard space at center.
The upper level of the home appears clad in white stucco, as a floating box over natural wood paneling for a “tree house” effect. This clear division is articulated in the separate public and private function zones of the home, with the courtyard bridging the gap between each space. The layout optimizes functionality and connectivity, emphasizing the flow between rooms. The primary bedroom features a tongue-and-groove wood ceiling, continuing to the exterior soffit, helping to blur the lines between indoors and out.
The courtyard surrounding the central tree in the backyard terraces down toward the lawn, acting as a natural gathering place for the family and guests, flanked by the wings of the home. This space takes advantage of the dappled light passing through the tall oaks, illuminating interior and exterior spaces at different points of the day. The large windows overlook this area, glowing outward at nighttime to showcase a silhouette of the preserved oak growing in the deck.
Skylights throughout the home allow natural light to enter the deepest reaches of the interior, while the open plan is calibrated to spread direct and indirect sunlight throughout the home. Each discrete space within the structure offers multiple openings to the surrounding landscape.
Project Manager: Travis Cook
Design Team: Travis Cook, Matt Fajkus, AIA, David Birt
Design Support: Thomas Johnston
General Contractor: Brodie Builders
Photography: Brian Mihealsick; Bryant Hill; Allison Cartwright – Twist Tours
Motorcycles: Ducati | MV Agusta Austin
Chevy Truck: Ron Barnes
Chevy Nova: Christian Leerberg
Staging: Blanton Design
The standout white box design, floating over natural wood paneling, makes for an imposing presence when seen from the street. A lengthy overhang protects a parking space, encompassing the grand entry as well.
The upper level features a uniquely shaped balcony, cut within the external structure itself and flush with natural wood. The lower level entry area is clad in grey, highlighted by a soft yellow hued door.
Seen from the back, the pair of single floor wings reach outward from the two story hub, hugging a cozy courtyard space. The bedrooms and other spaces all feature expansive windows, affording expansive landscape views.
Here we see the preserved oak at the center of the property, wrapped in light grey patio decking and surrounded by various sized windows. A set of rattan deck furniture allows for nature centric gatherings.
On the other side of the multi-windowed wall we see a transitional space leading from the main entry into the open-plan kitchen and dining area. The innovative window sets allow for a blurred line between indoors and out.
The kitchen centers on a large island with sleek white countertops. Bursts of color within this room appear via the patterned backsplash, dining chairs, and pouring in through the vast windows.
Divided by a concrete indoor planter, mounted below a specially placed skylight, the living room sees contemporary leather sofa and chair paired with a light wood coffee table over a zebra rug.
Returning to the central transitional space, we see the asymmetrical array of windows revealing the expansive courtyard, in perfect contrast to the neutral white and grey interior.
The lengthy hall stands below the open upper floor ceiling, a vast and tall interior space dotted with windows throughout. The foyer boasts storage for both a motorcycle and plenty of outdoor equipment.
On the more private end of the home, we see a two-flight staircase in rich natural wood, adding a warm contrast to the white and grey surroundings.
At the far end of the private wing of the home, we see the primary bedroom suite, with rich tongue-and-groove wood ceiling adding a natural warmth to the space. The open-plan area leaves plenty of space for movement.
The bedroom is bookended by an almost completely glass exterior wall, with sliding glass panels allowing for nature to enter the space. Spare furniture selection includes a dark wood bed frame, pair of minimalist natural wood side tables, and a leather upholstered accent chair in the corner.
The bathroom features an ultra-modern look, with sleek cabinetry, tile flooring, and glass enclosed shower. A set of sliding glass doors allows direct entry to the courtyard.
Here we see the courtyard in full bloom, with its intended purpose as a venue for gatherings and performances. The home practically hugs this cozy outdoor space.
Here we see the raised deck at night, with the light from indoors glowing behind the silhouetted oak at center.
The contrast between expanses of grey, natural wood, and white create a shuffling palette surrounding the courtyard. Ample windows extend the visual presence both indoors and out.
At dusk, recessed lighting in the overhands makes the outdoor areas glow, with natural wood paneling adding a natural warmth to the street side presentation.
From this front view, the courtyard is completely concealed. The upper level white box dominates the appearance, while competing natural wood and muted grey textures offer a subtly complex palette that meshes with the surrounding landscape.
Returning to the approaching viewpoint from our first image, at nighttime, we see the soft glow from the multitude of windows cutting through the facade, spilling over the oak-laden yard.
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(c) 2015
