Architects: Madeiguincho
Year: 2020
Photographs: Joao Carranca
Manufacturers: Binderholz, Diagonal Madeiras, Hafele, Krinner, Robert McNeel & Associates, Vidreira Polima
Lead Architect: Gonçalo Marrote
A Whimsical Haven
Crafting Delightful Escapes
Nestled discreetly in Cascais, Portugal, the Cassiopeia Tree House stands as an epitome of inventive design, offering a playground haven for children and a serene escape for adults. Designed by Madeiguincho and completed in 2020, this architectural gem seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, leaving a minimal impact on the territory.
A Playful Oasis
Unveiling the Multifaceted Playground
At the heart of Cassiopeia lies a vibrant playground catering to the imaginations of children. The structure encompasses a myriad of play elements, including a fireman pole, a slide, a swing, a zip-line, a net bed, monkey bars, and a sculpturally designed climbing wall. Each element is thoughtfully incorporated, transforming the treehouse into a multi-level adventure for the young ones.
Invisible Foundations, Visible Marvels
Innovative Structural Design
The treehouse’s foundation is anchored by nearly invisible metal ground screws, providing robust support to its legs and arms, symbolizing columns and beams. A carefully crafted skeleton, constructed at the pinnacle, forms the interior framework. The exterior, akin to the skin of the treehouse, is fashioned from black-painted Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) panels. Adorned with a horizontal slatted wood system, the walls and roof gracefully follow the contours of the treehouse, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
The Dream of Cassiopeia
A Shelter for Imagination
Cassiopeia is more than a mere treehouse; it is a dream materialized in a garden devoid of a tree. For adults seeking respite from the virtual realm, it transforms into a shelter, offering moments of tranquility and disconnection. Simultaneously, it metamorphoses into an intricate multi-level playground, where children can explore, discover, and indulge in boundless creativity. Additionally, Cassiopeia serves as a privileged vantage point for observing the intricacies of the universe through a telescope lens.
The Cassiopeia Tree House, with its whimsical design and thoughtful integration with nature, exemplifies how architecture can be both playful and functional, providing spaces that cater to diverse age groups and purposes.
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