A Porch in the Treetops

Two-story addition creates tranquil "treehouse" space

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Architectural design, spatial planning, construction administration

  • Addition of screened porch level with existing main floor
  • Exposed rafters and rustic wood ceiling
  • Two-story tall tree-top view
  • Exterior deck provides room for grill, access to grade

The homeowner of this beautiful property in Ann Arbor contacted Studio Z to build an elevated screened porch and deck to replace an existing open deck, which provided no protection from insects.


The home had been built on the edge of a ravine, so the property slopes dramatically down from the street to the back of the home.

The homeowner’s goals included orienting the screened porch towards the views of the forested ravine behind her home, making the screened porch fit with the style and materials of her existing house, and minimizing daylight loss in the existing kitchen. In addition, she wanted the porch floor to be at the same level as her existing first floor for ease of access.

Project highlights

The new treetop sanctuary is accessible from the main level of the home via a screened connector. The exposed rafters and wood ceilings bring a rustic Northern Michigan feel and warmth to the screened-in space. The small exterior deck provides a space for the homeowner’s grill and stairs connect to the grade below.


Check out our series of videos highlighting the build in progress and showing how architectural design, engineering knowledge, and construction techniques overcame the challenges of creating this beautiful porch in the treetops.

Before

After

Credits

Contractor: Hughes & Lynn Building and Renovations

Structural Engineer: SDI-Structures

Photographer: Max Wedge Photography


Before

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