In order to explore your current understanding of architecture and design, you will build a treehouse model that would fit within the constraints of 12" x 12" x 12". We would like you to construct a model that represents a specific design concept of your choosing. Design concept examples are listed below: 

The Escape - Designed to promote adventure and an ideal escape through the experience of the treehouse within its environment. Ex: A Spa in the Trees

The Studio - These are treehouses which are created to promote the visionary work/studies/artistic endeavors of the occupant. This treehouse is a space which allows the person to live fully in their own fantastical world while appreciating the unique environment they are sited in.  Ex: The Writers Nook

The Object - These treehouses are exciting experiments pushing the boundaries of architecture forward. They challenge the idea of what a treehouse has to be by creating striking architecture through pushing the boundaries of structure, space, and material. Ex: The Bridge in the Jungle, The Invisible Treehouse

The Collection - The main purpose is to create spaces which emphasize the interaction with, storage and display of a certain collection. ex: The Treehouse of Glass Objects

Including restrooms and kitchen space is not necessary. 

The primary function of the tree house is determined by each designer and may be a residence, but it could also serve other goals, ex: gallery, playground, tea house, greenhouse, umbrella making shop, studio, library, observatory, etc. 

Assignment:

- CREATE A SITE Select at least three tree branches from the middle of the table. Compose them on your piece of foam core and attach with hot glue.

- ESTABLISH A SCALE Create a scale figure by making a piece of paper the size a human should be compared to your tree branches

-  BUILD A TREEHOUSE This model is based on the  extents of your imagination. 

- Before your begin building, sketch out multiple quick ideas testing out a few potential concepts. Write down what the design concept you'd like to build is (examples above)

- Build a model within 45 minutes, capture the essential aspects of the idea. 

Document as you go. You may try something that looks cool and ultimately doesn't work out, take a photo before you disassemble it. 

You will share your models and concepts in the next class session.