<DIV><DIV>Childhood fantasy meets grown-up <i>savoir faire</i></div><DIV>The idea of climbing a tree for shelter, or just to see the earth from another perspective, is surely as old as humanity. Tree houses are chronicled in ancient civilizations and their lore crosses through the history of every part of the world where trees grow. <B>Anchored in the earth, yet suspended in the sky, the tree house is in many ways emblematic of architecture itself</B>. This stunningly illustrated study offers <B>a tour of the best tree houses in the world</B>, some designed by architects, others the work of anonymous craftsmen. <B>A teahouse, a restaurant or a hotel can all take the form of a structure in the trees.</B> A playhouse for children, or a perch from which to contemplate life—the tree house can take as many forms as the imagination can offer. In times of concern for sustainability and ecological responsibility, the tree house may also be the <B>ultimate symbol of life in symbiosis with nature</B>. Whether rustic or contemporary in style, tree houses make the most of space. Climb into this trove of tree houses and enjoy a new perspective on the world.<BR><BR><ul> <li>over 50 tree houses from around the world</li> <li>covers all different styles, from romantic to modern</li> <li>every house is depicted in several photos as well as one illustration custom made by illustration artist Patrick Hruby from Los Angeles (he also drew the book's cover)</li> <li>helpful short biographies of all architecs</li></ul></div></div>