The Monte Verde Treehouse: An Architectural Experience Balancing Nature and Design
The Treehouse in the Heart of the Brazilian Forest
This treehouse is nestled within the dense forests of Monte Verde in Minas Gerais and was designed by MEMM Architectural Studio in São Paulo.
A Dialogue Between Nature and Architecture
The architects drew inspiration from the surrounding environment, making the design an attempt to create a visual and sensory balance between the built structure and natural elements. Nature’s features are evident in every detail of the building, as if the architecture is not separate from the natural landscape but rather a living part of it.
A Design Vision Based on Abstraction
Instead of directly imitating nature, the designers abstracted its features, transforming natural cues into modern geometric forms that express the essence of the place without literal replication. This approach offers visitors a sensory experience that blends modernity with environmental harmony.
From a Play Area to a Hub for Connection
Initially, the treehouse was designed as an extension of the family home, providing children with a playful space for exploration and fun in the garden. Over time, however, the function of this simple structure evolved, gradually transforming into a place that brings people together and fosters a spirit of connection and harmony.
A Sensory Experience Amid Nature
The structure is no longer just a recreational space; it has become a meeting point between humans and nature. Among the tall branches and under the dense forest canopy, residents and guests can enjoy a unique view of the trees, with the design offering a sense of calm and immersion in the surrounding natural landscape.
Project Leadership and Design Vision
Architect Marcelo Macedo, founder of MEMM Studio, led the team in developing and executing the concept. The team chose to create a perforated wooden structure inspired by the shapes of leaves and natural geometric forms. This exterior layer not only serves an aesthetic purpose but also functions as a shield, providing shade and protection from sunlight, achieving a balance between functional beauty and visual harmony.
Site Selection as a Fundamental Step
Before drawing the first design lines, the architects recognized the importance of selecting the perfect location within the forest. The tree chosen for the structure was not merely a supporting element but the cornerstone defining the identity of the entire project.
Interaction with the Surrounding Environment
The team notes that the client had previously designated an area near the lake within the site, a space characterized by remarkable natural privacy.
The surrounding garden hosts a variety of tree species, giving each corner its unique character and atmosphere. Around the wetland area, several natural elements are distributed, such as the swimming pool, wooden deck, natural pond, and the main house, creating a harmonious scene that reflects an interconnected relationship among all components of the place.
Harmonious Topography
A gentle slope runs through the land, helping to naturally organize the spaces around the lake, resembling terraced levels that harmonize with the site’s terrain without compromising its original beauty.
A Balanced Geometric Structure
The treehouse is distinguished by its architectural composition, which consists of two square volumes connected to each other and also linked to the nearby main house. This connection creates a visual and functional sequence, making movement between the spaces natural and seamless.
Bridges Connecting the Spaces
The two volumes are linked by simple wooden bridges that are modest in design but sturdy in construction, providing smooth transitions between different areas. These bridges offer visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding forest, enhancing the sense of freedom and immersion in nature.
Lighting that Highlights Architectural Beauty
The interior spaces include comfortable seating areas where lighting has been carefully distributed to create a balance between light and shadow. This precise illumination accentuates the architectural details of the wooden structure while simultaneously highlighting the exterior natural scenery, making visitors feel as if the indoor and outdoor spaces are integrated into a single harmonious experience.
✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight
The treehouse in Monte Verde remains a fascinating experience in terms of visual harmony with nature and the use of wood as both an aesthetic and functional element, giving visitors a sense of calm and connection to the place. However, the project may raise some questions regarding the practical efficiency of the structure under varying climatic conditions, the extent of reliance on the bridges and square volumes for daily movement, and the difficulty of expanding or modifying spaces in the future. Additionally, the strong focus on abstraction and design may make some users feel that the experience offers less flexibility in utilizing every space practically. Overall, the project delivers a distinctive sensory and artistic experience, though it may be somewhat limited when considering daily living or repeated use.
Prepared by the ArchUp Editorial Team
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