Last week, Yuichi Takeuchi, treehouse builder and kindred spirit from Japan, visited us in our studio.

He’s doing wonderful work and says that Shelter has been a big influence on his work.

His website: https://www.treeheads.com

His photos sorted by projects:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/treeheads/sets/

“Chand Baori in Abhaneri village in eastern Rajasthan, India, is one of the most overlooked landmarks in the country. It is one of the oldest stepwell in Rajasthan, and is considered to be among the biggest in the world. Chand Baori looks like anything but a well. This incredible square structure is 13 stories deep, and lined along the walls on three sides are double flight of steps. 3,500 narrow steps arranged in perfect symmetry descends to the bottom of the well 20 meters deep to a murky green puddle of water. Built during the 8th and 9th century by King Chanda of Nikumbha Dynasty, provided the surrounding areas with a dependable water source for centuries before modern water delivery systems were introduced. As the green water at the base attests, the well is no longer in use, but it makes for an interesting stop-over to an architecturally impressive structure that is over 1000 years old. There’s also a temple adjoining the well for visitors to explore.…”

https://www.amusingplanet.com/2012/10/chand-baori-step-well-in-rajasthan-india.html#at_pco=smlrebh-1.0&at_si=5542f55438c58759&at_ab=per-2&at_pos=2&at_tot=5

Sent by Anonymous

“Designed by architect Luciano Pia, 25 verde is an unique residential building that has been constructed in Torino, Italy. The load-bearing structure is made of steel and columns shaped like tree trunks help support the 63 residential units that is covered in larch wood shingles. The concept of the scheme was to create a space with a transition between the interior and exterior, by the prominent use of foliage. illustrated in diverse ways such as green walls, planted in pots and gardens, altogether seamlessly coherently carried through the entire building.

The residential lofts are all different, fitted with irregular terraces that wrap around the trees with the top floor having its own green roof. 50 trees were planted just in the court garden itself, whilst they enhance the environmentally friendly setting, the trees reduce air and noise pollution. The building is like a living forest
.

Ultimately, the aim of the project is to be energy efficient. by utilizing geothermal energy for heating and cooling, harvesting rainwater to water the plants and a natural flow of ventilation. Over time, the building and surrounding vegetation will grow and age, side by side, establishing its own microclimate and when the plant life is fully in bloom, give its occupants a real taste of living in a tree house.…”

https://www.designboom.com/architecture/luciano-pia-25-verde-treehouse-torino-italy-03-13-2015/

Photo © beppe giardino