Branching out

Childhood fantasy meets grown-up savoir faire

The idea of climbing a tree for shelter, or just to see the earth from another perspective, is surely as old as humanity. Tree houses are chronicled in ancient civilizations and their lore crosses through the history of every part of the world where trees grow. This stunningly-illustrated study offers a tour of the best tree houses in the world, some designed by architects, others the work of unknown craftsmen. A teahouse, a restaurant, a hotel, a playhouse for children, or a perch from which to contemplate life—the tree house can take as many forms as the imagination can offer. In times of concern for sustainability and ecological responsibility, the tree house may also be the ultimate symbol of life in symbiosis with nature. Whether rustic or contemporary in style, tree houses make the most of space. Climb into this trove of tree houses and enjoy a new perspective on the world.

  • 50 tree houses from around the world
  • Covers all different styles, from romantic to modern
  • Every house is depicted in several photos as well as one illustration by artist Patrick Hruby from Los Angeles (who also created the book’s cover artwork)
  • Helpful short biographies of all architects
The author:
Philip Jodidio (born 1954) studied art history and economics at Harvard, and edited Connaissance des Arts for over 20 years. His books include TASCHEN’s Architecture Now! series, and monographs on Tadao Ando, Norman Foster, Richard Meier, Jean Nouvel, and Zaha Hadid. He is internationally renowned as one of the most popular writers on the subject of architecture.
Tree Houses. Fairy Tale Castles in the Air

Tree Houses. Fairy Tale Castles in the Air


Hardcover, 10.2 x 13.4 in., 352 pages, $ 69.99
Multilingual Edition: English, French, German
Availability: In Stock
  • Reviews
"The whimsical charm of the simple tree house has been turned on its head by architects, designers, and craftsmen who have let their imagination run riot, as illustrated in popular architecture writer Philip Jodidio’s new book Tree Houses: Fairy Tale Castles in the Sky. TASCHEN’s beautiful book reveals the world’s most spectacular and innovative tree houses—from rustic to ultra contemporary."
— Absolutely Kensington, London, United Kingdom
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  • See also
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