Perched amidst the towering pines of the Alpine forest in Tarvisio, Italy, “Il Pino” is a contemporary interpretation of a treehouse. Designed by Beltrame Studio, this unique dwelling seamlessly integrates with its natural environment, mimicking the form of a stylized tree. Completed in August 2023, the project offers an immersive architectural experience, blending the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living.
The 45sqm retreat is crafted to cultivate a love for sustainable living and a profound bond with the natural world. Rising gracefully across three levels, the cabin invites unique experiences with the enchanting forest and majestic Alps: cozy and protected at the ground level, tranquil and reflective among the leaves on the first floor, and offering sweeping views above the treetops on the upper level. This vertical design minimizes the cabin’s environmental impact, reducing the need for tree removal and soil disruption.
Il Pino is entirely constructed from timber, featuring a robust framework made of spruce. This structure is insulated with wood fiber and adorned with red cedar shingles, while the façades and window frames are finished in larch. Inside, the cabin showcases elegant spruce finishes complemented by oak flooring, creating a harmonious natural ambiance.
The architecture of the cabin is defined by three tiered pitched roofs, with each floor plan set back from the one below, allowing for a graceful slope. The larch exterior is treated with ironite, a sustainable and economical method that enhances its color, resembling the bark of a tree.
On the ground floor, the layout includes the kitchen, living area, and bathroom. The middle level offers an additional sleeping area along with a dedicated space for yoga or meditation. The top floor houses the master bedroom, which provides breathtaking views of the Alps.
Overall, the exterior of Il Pino blends seamlessly with the surrounding woodland. The shingles are designed to weather and fade naturally over time, while the darkened façade mimics the appearance of a tree trunk. Inside, all finishes are made from natural wood, and the custom-made furniture features a green color scheme inspired by the vibrant hues of spring in the forest. For instance, the tables are crafted to reflect the shapes of nearby lakes.
The choice of a timber frame design was made for its lightweight properties, which significantly minimized the need for extensive earthworks at the site. Materials were transported manually, and components were lifted to higher levels using ropes. The roofs were constructed in a wood workshop as 16 modular sections, which were then assembled on-site.
“My favorite thing about Il Pino is counterintuitive: I love that it remains hidden until you reach it,” says Luca Beltrame. “Designing a project that doesn’t disrupt its surroundings but instead merges respectfully into them was a significant achievement for us”.