The Saltbox
Design/Build: Wild Tree Woodworks
Puyallup, Washington
Some projects are largely guided by site conditions, while others are shaped strongly by the client’s vision. In this case, the design was influenced by a few clear requests from the start: a Dutch door, a rounded deck, and a fire pole. Those elements became anchors in the creative process.
With the surrounding trees dictating the footprint and orientation, the floor plan developed naturally. The structure needed to fit comfortably within the canopy while still allowing room for movement and play. From there, the saltbox roofline emerged — a form that gives the treehouse a distinctive profile while serving practical purposes. The higher interior ceiling creates a more open feel inside, and the extended roofline provides a covered deck area, adding usable outdoor space in varying weather.
Material choices further defined the character of the build. Reclaimed windows and doors were incorporated to bring warmth and personality, pairing well with cedar board-and-batten siding. The board and batten not only completes the exterior with a clean, timeless look, but also carries through to the interior for a cohesive finish. It’s a straightforward material approach that balances durability, aesthetics, and cost efficiency.
As with many of our projects, the final design reflects a collaboration — client vision, site constraints, and thoughtful craftsmanship working together to create something that feels both intentional and enduring.
