As I was gazing out my window this morning, taking in the wondrous relationship between the trees and the hundreds of birds that hang out in them, I was struck by the thought of our many primate cousins, that also live in trees. Large tree trunks, combined with phenomenal strength, provide the perfect support and safety that tree-dwelling species require to avoid most predators. Trees, birds, and insects have worked out an agreeable system that benefits them all. We use trees to build our homes as well; but we cut them down and kill them in order to do so. The tree is not benefited and we lose out on the view we might have. Treehouses are nothing new, but until recently, they were built primarily to entertain children.
Today, tree houses are not just for kids. Innovative builders have created tree homes for adults. Some of them are incredibly beautiful and artistically designed. The cost to build them is considerably less expensive than a traditional brick and mortar or framed house. Most treehouses are built between six and twelve feet off the ground, which allows for many of them to make use of solar energy. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, a treehouse makes perfect sense. Where there are neighboring trees, the presence of foliage during the warmer months provides privacy. The space below the treehouse can be utilized as a yard, or other space, so one is not limited to a front yard and a back yard. When treehouses are built in strong, healthy trees, like oak or maple, and built with respect for the tree, the few wounds that are made by the hardware, heal over – just like our skin.
There seems to be a desire of many people, to live up and off the ground. High rise buildings dot major cities all over our entire planet. Scientists have shown us that by planting enough trees, we can eliminate most greenhouse gases within a short time. If we began to build more homes in the trees, it may be possible to return our planet to its former beauty, over time. If we lived in trees, how might that change our perspective and our willingness to live harmoniously with nature? It is exciting to think about. If I live long enough and if I can find the means to do so, I want my next home to be a treehouse!
