Modern treehouse with stunning mountain views wants $775K

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Location: Idyllwild, California

Price: $775,000

Tucked into the forests of the San Jacinto Mountains in Idyllwild, California, just west of Palm Springs is this modern treehouse designed in 1984 by Scott Emsley, an architect who worked with master of “organic architecture” Kendrick Bangs Kellogg.

Inspired by the conifer tree, the 2,062-square-foot three-bed-three-bath boasts a dynamic geometric construction of multiple structures, cantilevers, walkways, and soaring interiors that opens onto views of the surrounding landscape. A program of glass, stone, and wood—milled to the exact specifications of the original owner, who ran a lumber mill—creates a mountain retreat that is at once rustic and wholly modern.

In the two-story main house, the living area is a characterized by a beamed and vaulted wood-paneled ceiling that reaches toward the mountains. Two lounges, a dining area, and kitchen occupy the open-plan space, where there’s also a fireplace, a great stone wall, and glass doors opening onto a deck and stunning views. Paneled walls, built-in shelves, wood block flooring, and other surprising details are found throughout.

There are two bedrooms here, one upstairs and another downstairs, while a third ensuite bedroom is located in a separate structure. Accessed by one of the property’s many walkways and appearing to float, this cantilevering, triangular volume features glass expanses that frame views of two large oak trees.

Located on 1.6 incredible acres nestled into the trees, with multiple decks, balconies, and pathways allowing for the ultimate indoor-outdoor experience, the home at 55320 Pine Crest Road is offered at $775,000. Have a look.

Courtesy of Chris Menrad