Introducing the Lookout Treehouse, a one-of-a-kind treehouse playground built for Solterra, a master-planned community in Mesquite, Texas. Designed and constructed by the Nelson Treehouse crew, this elevated structure is centered around a mature oak tree and built to encourage exploration, connection, and imaginative play.
From crow’s nests to cargo nets, every feature was thoughtfully designed to bring a little adventure into everyday life.
“This was a really unique project for us,” shared Tobias Maloy, Project Manager at Nelson Treehouse, in an interview with CandysDirt.com.
“Typically, the treehouses we create are seen as an escape for the owners. Usually, they serve as private residences. This one, however, is meant to be a communal space.”
As part of Solterra’s Treehouse Park, the Lookout Treehouse is a public amenity intended to connect neighbors and families. Winding paths, gathering areas, and a layout built around the trees help this space feel both immersive and welcoming.
“Phil Huffines is a big fan of Nelson Treehouse and Treehouse Masters,” Tobias said. “When he envisioned Solterra, he decided that he wanted something a little more special than your typical playscape. This project encourages community interaction with bridges, nets, and climbing features. It centers around one large oak tree and expands throughout the grounds.”
From a design and build perspective, this elevated playground includes multiple platforms, bridges, and custom elements to support open-ended, safe, and exhilarating play:
A covered area provides shade, while the open-air deck offers a front-row seat to the action.
Accessed by a custom steel spiral staircase, this elevated perch offers big views and a sense of discovery.
A wobbly, exciting path that leads to a towering slide structure.
This tower connects to the main pavilion and features a climbable cargo net leading up to a spacious net fort with a net floor inside. It’s the perfect spot for kids to explore and play, and a slide nearby makes for an exciting descent back down!
Materials were chosen to be both durable and complementary to the natural landscape.
Want to see more of our custom treehouse builds?
Visit our Project Portfolio for a look at residential, commercial, and public treehouses we’ve built across the country.
The Lookout Treehouse was built to preserve and showcase its natural surroundings. Anchored around a thriving oak tree, this structure feels tucked into the landscape, rather than set on top of it. The use of cedar, hog wire, and custom steel creates a balance of strength and warmth, perfect for a high-use community space.
This project challenged us to think differently about how people interact with treehouses not just as private escapes, but as gathering spaces for entire communities. And we’re honored that Solterra trusted us with such a special part of their vision.
PC and Timelapse curresty of Huffines Communities and Solterra Texas
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