There’s something magical about a treehouse, isn’t there? It’s that little secret haven where imagination runs wild, where games are played, stories are told, and adventures are had—all nestled up among the branches.

As a mum, I’ve always wanted to give my kids that special space, a place that feels like it’s just for them. So, after weeks of thinking, planning, and trying to figure out how to make it happen, we finally decided to build a treehouse. And let me tell you, it was one of the best decisions we ever made as a family!

If you’re thinking about building one for your kids, let me walk you through some of the key things I learned along the way. It doesn’t have to be daunting, but there are definitely a few things to keep in mind to make sure it’s not only fun but also safe.

1. Choosing the Perfect Tree

First things first, you’ll need the right tree! We’re lucky enough to have a decent-sized backyard with a couple of good trees, but it’s really important to pick one that’s up for the job. You’ll want a tree that’s healthy, with thick branches, and preferably one that has a good amount of shade—perfect for those hot Aussie summers.

The ideal height is something we debated for a while. My kids wanted it really high up, but the mum in me couldn’t help but think about the potential for falls. We ended up compromising at about 2 metres off the ground. It’s high enough for them to feel like they’re up in the trees, but not too high that I lose sleep over it.

Make sure the tree is strong and well-rooted, and double-check that it’s healthy (no signs of rot or dead branches). You want something like a sturdy gum tree or even a maple if you have one—it’s worth talking to a local arborist if you’re unsure.

2. Designing Your Treehouse

Now for the fun part—design! I quickly realised there are so many different options when it comes to treehouses, from simple platforms to full-blown mini houses with roofs and windows.

  • For the littlies, a basic platform with a railing might be all you need. Just enough for them to feel like they’ve got their own special space, but still easy for you to keep an eye on them.
  • Older kids might love something a bit more adventurous. We decided on an enclosed design with walls and a roof—my daughter wanted it to be like her own little cabin! It took a bit more time and effort, but the result was worth it. Plus, it means they can play out there even when it rains.
  • Multi-level treehouses are fantastic if your tree can support it. I’ve seen some amazing designs with different platforms connected by ladders or rope bridges. We didn’t go quite that fancy, but it’s definitely a cool option if you’re up for a bigger challenge.

3. Making Sure It’s Safe

This is where my mum instincts kicked in big time. I knew I wanted the treehouse to be fun, but safety was always at the forefront of my mind. Here are a few things I made sure of:

  • Ladders and access points: We went for a wooden ladder with wide, sturdy steps, but rope ladders are also a great option if your kids are a bit older. We even added a little slide for getting down—talk about endless fun! The slide was definitely a hit, and it gives them an easier, safer way to get down in a hurry.
  • Railings: I can’t stress enough how important it is to have proper railings. Even if your treehouse is only a metre or so off the ground, it’s a good idea to install railings around the edge, just to be sure they don’t accidentally tumble off.
  • Smooth edges: We spent a solid afternoon sanding down all the rough edges. No one wants splinters, and it’s one of those little things that make the whole space feel safer and more inviting.
  • Support beams: We used heavy-duty bolts and brackets to secure the treehouse to the tree itself. It needs to be strong enough to handle the weight of not just the treehouse but the kids and all their energy too! This is definitely a spot where you don’t want to cut corners.

4. Choosing the Right Materials

When we first started talking about building the treehouse, I thought, “How hard can it be? We’ll just grab some wood and screws, right?” Oh boy, was I wrong! The materials you use make such a difference. If you want the treehouse to last (and be safe), investing in quality building materials is key.

For the frame, we went with treated pine. It’s affordable, sturdy, and resistant to termites—something you can’t overlook here in Australia. We also looked into hardwood options, which are super durable, but they were a bit out of our budget for this project.

For the fasteners, we chose galvanised bolts and screws, which resist rust and ensure everything stays solid and in place. I’ve heard horror stories of people using cheaper screws, and the whole thing becoming wobbly after just a few months. Definitely worth the little extra investment for peace of mind.

And a quick word about the roof! If you’re doing an enclosed treehouse like we did, make sure the roofing material is durable. We used corrugated iron sheets—lightweight, easy to install, and weatherproof.

5. A Little Green Touch: Sustainability

I’m trying to be more conscious of the materials we use, so I looked into eco-friendly options too. Many places offer sustainably sourced timber, which was a big bonus for me. It’s worth checking with your local supplier to see what’s available and environmentally friendly.

Another thing to keep in mind: try not to damage the tree itself when you’re building. We used brackets designed to support the structure without cutting into the tree too much—keeps the tree healthy and growing strong for years to come!

6. Adding the Fun Extras

Once the basic structure was up, the real fun began—decorating! This is where you can really get creative and let your kids’ personalities shine through.

We added a chalkboard wall for drawing, a little pulley system to send toys up and down, and some bright-coloured cushions to make it comfy. We even strung up some outdoor fairy lights for nighttime play, and let me tell you, the whole thing feels like a magical escape once the sun goes down.

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you could even add features like a fireman’s pole or a mini zip line. We haven’t quite gotten that far yet, but maybe one day!

7. The Professional Touch

As much as I love a good DIY project, there were definitely moments when I thought, “Should we be calling in a professional?” If you’re unsure about anything—whether it’s how to secure the structure safely or choosing the right materials—it’s totally okay to ask for help. Better safe than sorry, right?

In fact, I recommend at least having a chat with a professional builder or carpenter if you’re going for a more complicated design or if your treehouse is going to be quite high off the ground. They can help make sure everything is done properly and safely.

Also, remember to use quality building materials that meet Australian standards. This isn’t something you want to skimp on, as a well-built treehouse can last for years to come—and most importantly, keep your little ones safe.

8. The Lasting Memories

Building our treehouse was a journey—one that I’m so glad we took. The joy on my kids’ faces when it was finally done was worth every moment of planning, sanding, and hammering. And now, they have this incredible little space where they can play, dream, and grow.

If you’re thinking about building a treehouse, I say go for it! Take your time, make sure it’s safe, and most of all, have fun with it. It’ll be a project your family will remember forever.

Disclaimer: While this guide shares my personal experience, I highly recommend consulting a professional if you’re unsure about any part of the building process. Always use quality materials and ensure your treehouse meets Australian safety standards.