Designing a tree house that serves as an office and bedroom involves more than just building a structure; it's about creating a space that harmonises with the natural surroundings while providing modern comforts. The key was to blend the whimsical with the practical, ensuring our aerial abode is as enchanting as it is functional. Enter the artisan carpenter, Douglas, who between my ‘back of the envelope’ design and his, built the space and captured how it should feel. Doug is one of those very special people who can dream big and execute ideas without exact measurements, architectural drawings, or even a complete sense of what the end result will be. As a designer, this is unbelievably valuable and liberating as it allows iteration of ideas, working with the materials and space around you organically by interpreting the dream. He is just simply, an incredibly gifted carpenter, a true artisan in a modern world of quick fixes and straight lines.
Tree House Interiors
This project was an opportunity to use a completely new interiors style at Mulberry House and one which I've really enjoyed leaning into. Inspired by our love for the wild and adventure, we curated an eclectic and rustic room designed to ooze character and charm, making it feel lived-in, full of stories and ripe for the next exciting adventure in what I'm terming as, "beach shack chic".
The allure of a beach hut vibe lies in its timeless charm and cosy, inviting ambiance. This design style beautifully blends the simplicity and ruggedness of the countryside with the serene and tranquil vibes of beach, sea or lakeside living. Whether you're designing a new space or renovating an old one, incorporating New England style rustic elements can create a space that is both nostalgic and contemporary. Here's how to achieve this harmonious balance.
The Foundation: Natural Materials and Earthy Tones
At the heart of beach shack chic design is the use of natural materials. Wood is the primary element, often left in its raw or reclaimed state to showcase its natural beauty. Think exposed wooden beams, wide-plank floors and wood-panelled walls.
To complement these natural materials, a colour palette of earthy tones is essential. Soft whites, creamy beiges, and warm browns form the backdrop, while accents of deep greens, blues, and rusty reds bring the landscape indoors. These colours reflect the surrounding nature, creating a seamless transition between the interior and exterior.
Natural fabrics like linen and cotton invite relaxation and check or floral patterns add a touch of charm, evoking a sense of nostalgia. Mixing antique and contemporary pieces can create a layered, lived-in look that feels both curated and cosy.
Wooden furniture - whether it’s a rustic dining table or a handcrafted coffee table - should have a slightly worn, weathered appearance. This not only adds character, but also suggests a story behind each piece. To soften the hard surfaces and add warmth, layer the space with textiles – think woollen blankets, handwoven rugs and an abundance of cushions.
Decorative Touches: Personal and Practical
The decorative elements of this style should reflect the beauty of the surrounding environment and your own personal taste. Nature-inspired art, such as landscape paintings or botanical prints, can bring the outside in together with animal inspired art and old maps. Trawling through family heirlooms and pictures to pull out stories that would otherwise be lost in a box and giving them a new life to tell of adventures beyond the treehouse - letters from family in the Trenches in World War One, photos of my Mother-in-Law in the Merchant Navy, a great-uncle’s car salvaged from the breaker’s yard in 1930, a book (‘The Infantry Training Manual, 1942’) signed by the builders - recently ‘demobbed’ - and left in an alcove in the 1950. Displaying collections of found objects like driftwood, stones and antique fishing gear adds a personal touch and connects the interior to the adventure setting.
Aim for a seamless integration of outdoor and indoor spaces. This beach hut/lake house style of interior design is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about creating a space that feels like a retreat. By focusing on natural materials, a comforting colour palette, and a mix of old and new furnishings, you can craft an environment that is both timeless and welcoming. Whether you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life or simply want a home that feels connected to nature, embracing this design style will ensure your garden escape is a place of relaxation and beauty for years to come.
