One of Berlin's many unique features is its undeveloped areas in the eastern parts of Berlin just at the edge of the city centre. The particular charm of many of these areas lies in the old commercial buildings amid huge expanses of urban wilderness. Though completely neglected for years, more and more of this urban wasteland has recently become the location for alternative activitys, suburban leisure and recreation activities, and new urban development projects .On and along the banks of the Spree, especially, restaurants, cafés, and a whole range of leisure attractions have mushroomed.
This project was conceived by a developer who saw the potential of a river location for his business and a marina at one of the old river ports. The port has meanwhile been redeveloped and several yachts, houseboats and a floating hostel are moored there. A magnificent weeping willow directly on the edge of the embankment inspired the him to build a treehouse.
The result is a rounded, metallic tree cabin direct on the bank of the Spree. The construction is anchored by a combination of supports and cables connected to the willow, thus spreading the load of the rear of the cabin and stabilizing the cabin's horizontal position. The outer shell of the cabin is clad with 3 mm stainless steel sheeting, which was cut using digital laser technology. The interior is furnished with a bedding area for 2-3 people, a sofa and a folding table or workspace. The white walls and ceiling and the high-gloss coated fitted furniture lends the cabin an atmosphere of light and elegance. The flooring and the furniture edging are finished with oak.
The large windows offer a splendid view of the water, the passing boats and the maritime activities in the small port facilitiy.