Architecture Feature: Minister's Treehouse in Crossville, Tennessee

Tree houses have been some of the most imaginative living spaces developed by mankind till date. Elevated above ground level alongside trees with the support of stilts, these houses have been extensively used for practical as well as recreational purposes. One of the best tree houses in the world, the Minister’s Tree House located in the outskirts of Crossville, Tennessee is nothing short of an architectural marvel.

Photo Credit: s.carlson/Flickr

Minister’s Tree House is famous as the largest treehouse in the world, and it has an interesting story behind its development. According to Horace Burgess, who was the creator of this mammoth tree house, it was built by the guidance of God. He claims that the spirit of God appeared to him and asked him to construct a treehouse, promising him an everlasting stock of resources if he built it. This was enough of inspiration for him to build the sprawling treehouse which is spread out over 10000 square feet around an equally gigantic 85-feet oak tree, along with six other smaller trees acting as a support.

Photo Credit: Joelk75/Flickr

This bizarre construction was started in the year 1993, and it took well over 200000 nails, 12000 US dollars and a decade to bring the imposing treehouse to life. It boasts of 10 storeys with a deck around each level of the house, and has been constructed using organically sourced wood and recycled materials, thus making it an eco-friendly structure. The top of the house can be seen towering above a bunch of trees as you approach it from a distance. It offers breathtakingly vivid views of the adjoining verdant landscape, and also has a church on the highest level.

Photo Credit: s.carlson/Flickr

The Minister’s treehouse has been temporarily shut since 2012, and the date of reopening is not confirmed as of yet. Around the ground level you will find several signs asking you to ward off the premises. Various petitions have been signed to make the treehouse accessible to visitors, but the authorities have not confirmed any specific reopening dates as of yet.

Nevertheless, the largest treehouse of the world is worth casting a look at when visiting Crossville in Tennessee.

For more architectural features, visit PropTiger.com.