Toronto-based Michael Greenwood "grew up around wood, in the family workshop and in the forests of southern Ontario." After graduating from college, Greenwood began undertaking small home renovations and studied luthery (guitar building) evenings at OCAD, where he developed an "appreciation for detailed, exacting work." In addition to creating contemporary custom furniture, Greenwood also builds what he calls tree sanctuaries, ranging from simple platforms to multilevel shelters. To see more of his work, go to Greenwood Studio.
Above: Greenwood's first tree house was one he built so inner-city kids could camp in the woods. His subsequent tree houses have gotten more elaborate, featuring slides, bridges, and climbing nets.
Above: Greenwood uses only salvaged or reclaimed woods from small local woodlots or from trees that have fallen on the building site. He also uses timber from old barns.
Above: Purposefully rustic, the tree houses blend in with their natural surroundings.
Above: For another of our favorite tree houses, see Little Red Tree House in the Big Woods.
Above: Greenwood's tree house embellishments include zip lines and a crow's nest lookout.
Above: An adventure playground by Greenwood with nets, bridges, and slides.
N.B.: This is an update of a post originally published August 8, 2011.