Discover the enchanting luxury treehouses located in the serene Dorset woodlands, now available for eco-conscious buyers seeking a unique investment opportunity.
Topics covered
Located in the serene woodlands of Dorset, the Woodsman’s Treehouse offers an enchanting escape for those seeking a blend of childhood dreams and architectural innovation. Rising 40 feet above ground and linked by a whimsical rope bridge, this remarkable structure captures the imagination.
In a notable episode of Grand Designs, presenter Michelle Ogundehin praised its ability to transport visitors into a realm of wonder.
Designed by carpenter Guy Mallinson and architect Keith Brownlie, the treehouse highlights the beauty of natural materials. Primarily constructed from Douglas fir, cedar larch, and oak, it harmonizes with its surroundings, featuring a mix of rustic logs and smooth timber.
Its playful elements, including a slide leading to the forest floor, enhance its striking presence in the landscape.
The vision behind the treehouses
Guy Mallinson, who transitioned from Fulham to West Dorset, has dedicated years to mastering woodworking and design.
His experience spans cabinetry and furniture, ultimately leading him to create unique structures like yurts and tipis for the glamping market. The culmination of his vision manifested in the construction of a treehouse, completed in 2016.
Mallinson reflected on his journey, stating, “I have always wanted to build a treehouse. Who hasn’t?” The outcome surpassed his expectations, earning him two prestigious RIBA awards and features in acclaimed shows like Grand Designs and George Clark’s Amazing Spaces.
Expanding the woodland retreat
During the challenges of lockdown, Mallinson and Brownlie expanded their creative portfolio by constructing two additional treehouses: Dazzle and Pinwheel. Each structure has a unique design, with Dazzle showcasing camouflage patterns inspired by naval tactics, while Pinwheel reflects the playful aesthetics of a child’s toy. Both received recognition from RIBA in, solidifying their status as architectural marvels.
All three treehouses function as holiday rentals under Mallinson’s Woodland Retreat, which is now available for purchase. This eco-luxury retreat spans 13 acres of lush woodland and meadows and is on the market for £2 million, inclusive of furniture, outbuildings, and planning permission for up to five additional treehouses.
A closer look at the treehouses
The Woodsman’s Treehouse, completed in under six months at a cost of £150,000, is ingeniously built around an ancient oak tree, preserving its integrity. Guests enter through a whimsical porthole door into a cozy lobby that leads to an open-plan cylindrical living area, centered around a rotating wood burner. Large windows invite natural light and frame stunning views of the treetops.
The interior includes four adjoining ‘box rooms’ that accommodate the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom, the latter featuring a luxurious roll-top copper bath. The wraparound balcony enhances the experience with amenities such as an outdoor shower, a hammock for relaxation, and a pizza oven for culinary adventures. The total living area spans 377 square feet, comfortably accommodating two guests.
Distinctive designs of Dazzle and Pinwheel
Dazzle features a one-bedroom layout inspired by First World War naval camouflage. Its design includes a gangplank walkway, rooftop funnels, and a central glass spine leading to a prow-shaped deck, creating a nautical yet innovative atmosphere. In contrast, Pinwheel stands out with its cross-shaped arrangement of rooms radiating from a glass-topped living area, reflecting the enchanting shapes of nature.
Each treehouse is equipped with modern amenities, including wood burners, barbecues, and hot tubs, enhancing the appeal of these woodland retreats. Mallinson’s enterprise also includes several permanent structures, such as workshops and entertaining spaces, with permissions for further development.
Designed by carpenter Guy Mallinson and architect Keith Brownlie, the treehouse highlights the beauty of natural materials. Primarily constructed from Douglas fir, cedar larch, and oak, it harmonizes with its surroundings, featuring a mix of rustic logs and smooth timber. Its playful elements, including a slide leading to the forest floor, enhance its striking presence in the landscape.0
