I built a treehouse-ish during COVID for my daughter at the bottom of our garden.
I didn’t want her to grow up and say, “My dad never built me a treehouse.” I had issues.
The day I decided to build it, I had no idea where to start, but I was determined to figure it out. I approached it the same way I learned to play the Ukulele during COVID—starting with one chord. I now play the Ukulele in the treehouse.
First, the platform, then the walls, then the roof. (I'm building a keynote currently following this recipe…)
I bought and collected windows, doors, and whatever random materials I could find until I had enough to envelop the space in an ambiance of natural light, with two small trees growing in the middle of the structure.
It even has a solid patio outside.
My daughter only truly claimed it, with great enthusiasm, once the transparent roof was installed.
However, she seldom uses the treehouse anymore (but still claims her right to it!), and now, it’s become my urban retreat.
It’s a really cool little, feel-good space to be in.
Going up there reminds me that I, too, can build a treehouse, which is quite satisfying :)
I sometimes time-box work and spend an hour or two in the treehouse, guided by a large half-hour glass filled with yellow sand that I bought.
The space, bathed in natural light from all sides, is perfect for Zoom calls and helps me stay present in my thoughts with the creative flame flickering.
But it’s also a great place to hang out, even if just for a short while.
Sometimes, I’ll do nothing but listen to the birds as they fly by. The neighbours cat often visits too. The treehouse has a great view, with the sun setting perfectly through the main window each evening.
Johannesburg sunsets are golden.
It’s my little perspective-taking, urban retreat… and I built it.
PS: If you ever come visit, we can hang out in there.
You are welcome.
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