Hudnalls Hideout Treehouse - A case study
The owners of Hudnalls woodland had set their sights on an A frame style structure that would fit nicely and make the most of a natural clearing within the trees. But - they also wanted something with that essential ‘wow factor’. Exploring design options with industry specialist, Kate Morel, they settled on a double-ridge design with a mezzanine sleeping loft that ticked all the boxes. It broke away from a typical ‘turreted’ or rustic treehouse look to create something different in the UK market, as well as meeting the budget that would deliver the R.O.I. they needed.
When refining the concept design, particular attention was given to features that would add to a unique style and further set the treehouse apart in the market.
- Externally a mix of cedar shingles and oak waney edge planks create interest, and a contrast between the two levels.
- A generous deck surrounding the treehouse on three sides enables guests to truly engage with the surrounding woodland.
- A key feature is the outdoor ‘bathroom’ with a roll-top copper bath and bespoke backlit verdigri screen. Creating a unique bathing experience for guests, it also provides stunning night-time marketing shots.
- Signature pieces, such as a suspended retro-style fire and large-scale designer bathroom tiles endorse the distinctive style, and subtly echo the retro vibe of the furnishings.
- A cosy but striking bedroom loft was created above the sitting area, with a stunning gable window looking right out into the woodland canopy.
Professional photography and a strategic marketing campaign were the final pieces of the jigsaw that made the treehouse the success it is. Since its launch it has featured in Conde Nast Traveler, Lonely Planet, The Times, Homes & Gardens, Red, Sunday Times, British Airways Highlife, The Guardian, and Weekend Candy. It was also Silver finalist in the Rural Business Awards, and featured in Chanel 4's TV programme 'Extraordinary Escapes', where it was subsequently picked as one of Sandi Toksvik’s 'favourite 4' in the Radio Times. It will also feature in an upcoming episode of Escape to the Country.
The treehouse is running at full occupancy with weekend fees starting at £995 and has a waiting list of over 1200, it is already one of the top performing treehouses in the UK.
“Working with Kate was a reassuring experience as I knew she was well-respected in the glamping industry and has a great eye for creating a differentiated guest experience. I chose to work with Kate on our treehouse design and styling features to create a WOW guest experience and she carefully picked out signature features like the suspended retro fireplace and stunning verdigris tiles in the shower room. It was important that the treehouse had its own personality and didn’t look like a designer hotel room or curated from one brand. It all worked harmoniously to create a treehouse that feels contemporary and luxurious but still individual and unique, and the guests love it! Kate is also a great sounding board and consummate professional”
Sarah Orchard, Director – The Hudnalls Hideout Treehouse www.hudnallshideout.co.uk
Website: https://www.morelcompany.co.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.
Facebook: https://www.
