Christopher has been building tree houses for 15 years – over 250 of them! We asked him a few questions.
Tell us about your first treehouse project!
The first tree house I worked on looked like a Victorian castle. It was built in 2003 during a workshop led by Pete Nelson in Seattle. The time there was amazing – after that, I knew for sure: I'm going to be a treehouse builder!
And your first night in a treehouse?
I spent that in the USA too. I can still smell the cedar shingles today! There's nothing better... except maybe eggs and bacon over a campfire afterwards.
Were you already such a treehouse fanboy as a child?
On holiday in France, we had a crazy dangerous platform with a swing that led into nowhere. Thank God nothing ever happened – but it sparked my fascination.
Who inspired you?
Pete Nelson was my personal treehouse Jesus. He appeared to me in 2003 in a dreary exhibition hall in Munich and has been my friend and role model ever since.
Do you need craftsmanship experience – or can any idiot build a treehouse?
To build it quickly and well: yes. Slowly and well: not necessarily. Slowly and not so well: no. Quickly and not so well: also no. But after building it, you definitely have experience!
Your #1 tip for treehouse newbies?
Listen to the tree, don't ask too much of it, and don't rush up there – it's dangerous! And read our book: ‘How to Build a Treehouse’. Or check out Vitus' website!
You've learned a lot about treehouse fastenings – what's the most important thing?
The tree wants to live, grow and move. If these three points are guaranteed, nothing stands in the way of the treehouse.
Plan a lot or just start building?
Both can work, but I'm team planning. Saves time and detours.
Your most embarrassing treehouse story?
How we built the treehouse in the wrong garden! ... No, nonsense, I can't think of anything.
Your funniest treehouse story?
They all have to do with the World Treehouse Conference. There were lots of fun parties ... and funny people in funny situations :)
Thank you for taking the time and all the best!
Contact: Christopher Richter (GER)
☎ +49 177 6742088
