Most people can’t get enough of tree houses when they are young. But as soon as they become adults, they forget about them. However, tree houses are much more than childish structures. They can be used for observation and leisure, as workspaces, and as retreats. The newest tree house is a sight to behold. It runs on solar power, is controlled by voice commands, and even lets you know when you’re about to run out of beer. It has a 360-degree view, Wi-Fi, and different options for mood lighting. Named “The Skysphere,” it is the perfect getaway. Its name fits it perfectly. The floating room supported by a steel base is built on a hill encompassed by trees. It looks like it came out of a science fiction movie. It not only boasts a stunning design, its indoor features are sure to impress.
Have Fun in This Solar-Powered Tree House
Image via: Yahoo Homes
The Solar-Powered Tree House Project
The Skysphere is the brainchild of Jono Williams, a graphic designer and plastics engineer from New Zealand. He dreamt of creating an elevated building with a 360-view and Wi-Fi connectivity. Williams says that from a young age, he loved making things. When he was a kid, he would raid building sites to find wood for his tree houses. However, things have changed as he now imports up to 4 tons of steel to make a tree house.
Williams says that when building The Skysphere, he knew that a typical tree house would not be able to match his idea of an elevated room. Regular tree houses have many limitations. First, trees are affected by the elements and houses built on them can be damaged by harsh weather conditions. Secondly, trees grow with time and their branches can destroy tree houses as they expand. Trees also tend to obstruct the view from different angles and it’s almost impossible to see the surroundings. To avoid these drawbacks, Williams decided to forego a tree house and construct his own steel support. He customized the tree-like structure, ensuring it is ideal for any space and not just places where big trees grow.
Image via: Mashable
The engineer spent $50,000 and took 3 years to create and assemble each element – from the sphere and steel structure to the wood flooring and ceiling. He attended classes to learn how to make his tree house structurally sound and able to endure earthquakes and high winds. The end result was an incredibly awesome tree house that is pleasing to the eye and fitted with top-notch features. The structure is really impressive bearing in mind that Williams had no architectural experience before he started. The engineer not only created the basic design and energy systems, he also incorporated some avant-garde details.
Standout Features
The Skysphere is located in Linton, New Zealand and is comprised of a single room with transparent walls which provide guests with panoramic views of the surrounding area. The room can be accessed via a single ladder found at the base. The glass walls add to its beauty and bring the outdoors in. The tree house boasts a sleek modern design that makes it more striking than other tree houses. It is entirely powered by solar panels and uses solar power for all its devices.
This solar-powered tree house has dimmable LED lighting, high-speed internet, a wireless sound system, fingerprint entry, a refrigerated beer dispenser, and a Miracast projector. All of these features can be accessed through a Smartphone app. After you open the tree house with your fingerprint, climb a ladder to go to the main room, or up to the rooftop if you want a high vantage point. The room has a couch and a queen size bed where you can relax. The cooler is built into the couch ensuring refreshments are always within easy reach. The couch’s armrest has a built-in coaster which goes down and comes up with beer. In addition, the fridge sends an alert when the stock is diminishing.
Image via: Latest Solar News
The Skysphere is self-reliant thanks to solar panels. The panels power everything for 2 days every week and make the tree house a perfect weekend getaway. You won’t have to worry about powering your gadgets when it gets dark. The tree house doesn’t have a bathroom because Williams says he didn’t want to bother with plumbing. But he’s planning to build one in the surrounding trees.
Every person likes to have their own cozy space where they can be themselves and do whatever pleases them. Most people designate one room in their homes, but there are others who don’t conform to this trend. They leave no stone unturned to build their dream lounging room. Jono Williams did just that. If you love nature and are eco-conscious, visit this amazing structure. When evening comes and the stars shine brightly, you won’t have to say goodbye to the outdoors. You will lounge in your personal haven as you enjoy spectacular views and tranquil seclusion.
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