The Banyan Treehouse is a 172-square-foot accessory building located on a Brentwood hills estate in Los Angeles, designed by Rockefeller Partners Architects. The modern-day retreat was conceived as a surprise gift from a husband to his wife, an art museum patron, art collector, and philanthropist, to serve as a creative studio and lounge space. Perched 12 feet off the ground, the treehouse is situated in a back corner of the property and offers exceptional views of the Getty Center and downtown Los Angeles. The design is a clever interpretation of a childhood treehouse, reflecting the client's affinity for such a retreat while providing an adult environment. The project incorporates a live but fallen pine tree, with the structure hovering above it to suggest a delicate balance between the architecture and nature. A key feature is a glass viewport in the walnut floor, which symbolically connects the structure to the tree below, reminiscent of a classic treehouse hatch. Access is provided by a concrete stair that leads up to an open metal and wood plank stair, a modern interpretation of a treehouse ladder. The unique, angular plan was influenced by the tight site and setback requirements. The interior of the micro-house is equipped with modern amenities, including a toilet, running water, a daybed, and a small refrigerator. The space is wrapped in rich materials, such as walnut paneling and floors, mahogany windows, and ipe-wood ceilings and decks. Floor-to-ceiling mahogany windows and a glass clerestory provide abundant natural light and ventilation while framing views of the canyon and city. The exterior is clad in deep-oiled cedar siding for durability and beauty. A butterfly-shaped metal roof with a Kynar finish seemingly floats above the structure, supported by five angled steel columns. An outdoor shower, sculpted from concrete, is located below the treehouse. Credits Architect: Rockefeller Partners Architects Design Partner and Project Architect: Christopher Kempel, AIA Partner in Charge: Rocky Rockefeller, AIA Project Manager: Bridget Zimniski, Assoc AIA Interior Designer: Alana Homesley Interior Design Structural Engineer: C W Howe Associates Geotechnical Engineer: J. Byer Group Inc Landscape Consultant: Pamela Burton & Company General Contractor: Tom Preis Construction Photography: Eric Staudenmaier