Milan-based architecture studio Peter Pichler Architecture has released design for sustainable tree houses in West Virginia, United States. Named Tree Houses, the new development will be an addition to a hotel and create a new experience to live in the woods with a maximum connection to nature.

Released in a few renderings, Peter Pichler Architecture's design shows similarity with the Tree Houses proposed for North Italy, which was unveiled earlier this year. 

The studio's new design scheme draws a specific geometry with its sharp steep roof which is inspired by the surrounding fir and larch trees and will be made of local wood.

The size of the units ranges from 35-45 square meters on 2 levels. The lower level contains a small reading / lounge area, and the upper level the sleeping area includes a small bathroom. The two levels are connected with a small internal stair.

"The project is conceived as a "slow down" - form of tourism where nature and the integration of architecture in it plays a primary role," said Peter Pichler Architecture.

"We believe that the future of tourism is based on the relationship of the human being with nature. Well integrated, sustainable architecture can amplify this relationship, nothing else is needed," the architects added.

Dawson Lake is a stunning example of West Virginia’s “Wild and Wonderful” landscape, featuring a spring-fed 40-acre lake, restored meadows, streams and wetlands, and over 100 acres of perpetual land easements that form a protected habitat for native species. 

Dawson Lake will become a “living laboratory” for regenerative approaches to building design, agriculture and land-use that reach beyond minimizing environmental impacts to actually improving the ecosystem’s health and resilience, according o the studio. 

"The project's aim is to reshape the prospect for sustainable future," they added.

Dawson Lake will be the first luxury destination resort designed to meet the Living Building Challenge guidelines for net-zero energy and environmental impact, and the WELL standard for healthy interiors.

The project will encompass sustainable buildings, conference and event center, a food and agriculture hub, health and wellness proposals, sustainable education workshops and a vast visual and performing arts programming.

Project facts

Project: Tree Houses
Architecture: Peter Pichler Architecture
Location: West Virginia, United States

Peter Pichler Architecture team:
Peter Pichler Architecture Principals: Peter Pichler, Silvana Ordinas
Peter Pichler Architecture Design Team: Daniele Colombati, Gianluigi D ́Aloisio, Giovanni Paterlini, Marco Capriani.

All images © Peter Pichler Architecture

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