German architects solve office rent with treehouse design
1-square-meter tree office eliminates rental costs
1Architects' rent protest
German architecture studio Opposite Office designed a 1-square-meter tree office in response to high rents in Munich. Mounted on a tree at Bauhaus University campus, Baumhaus Office symbolizes the studio's exit from the rental market. Founder Benedikt Hartl describes it as both a real office and an exaggerated response to real estate prices.
2Minimalist office details
The 1-square-meter cubic office was designed to accommodate three architects. It features shelves, foldable work surfaces, and a desk accessible by ladder. The domed skylight offers treetop views while aluminum cladding makes it waterproof. The UFO-like design stands out visually.
3Eco-friendly assembly
Constructed with standard spruce planks and plywood panels from hardware stores, the office uses special padding to protect the tree. It's secured by two large straps without concrete foundation or screws. Hartl explains, 'No complicated anchoring system, just a very convincing embrace.'
4Munich's rent crisis
Munich has become one of Germany's most expensive cities for office space. Small architecture firms find high rents for minimal space absurd. Hartl states, 'We asked: How much space does an architecture practice really need? The answer is about 1 square meter.'
5Portable office concept
With permission from Bauhaus University, Baumhaus Office will remain on the tree temporarily. Hartl notes it can be disassembled and reinstalled on another tree relatively easily. He invites offers: 'If anyone has a tree with good views and no rent, contact us.'
6Global housing commentary
In Sweden, Riksbyggen and BBDO Nordics designed three tiny apartments reflecting what young people can afford. Other treehouses featured on Dezeen include a polycarbonate-clad triangular home and a bicycle-towed portable treehouse.
7Engineering test
Architects initially had safety concerns. After crowd load tests supervised by an engineer, they confirmed the structure's safety. This simple-material design challenges conventional construction methods.
8Design as architectural protest
This project shows architects' creative solutions to global housing and office crises. The sustainable, low-cost, portable office concept inspires future urban living alternatives. It offers a counterpoint to luxury office spaces.