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A Family Treehouse(3 of 14)

Roomy enough for family and friends, and with amenities such as mahogany flooring and a spiral staircase, this New Jersey treehouse is not just for kids.

The designer perched this dual platform structure on a couple of strong oaks, high enough to provide pond and forest views. The top platform is the larger of the two, about 300 square feet. Below is a 190-square-foot deck. For quick escapes and some treehouse fun, there's a zip line and several rope swings.

Play Like a Kid, Plan Like a Parent
TREE LOCATION: Is it privacy you are after? Or maybe you're looking for a view, or just a good old kids' playhouse. How this structure is going to be used and who will use it are key to determining where you place it.

A few things to consider right off the bat are sun and shade patterns, and privacy. You don't want neighbors complaining after you've put all that work into building your treehouse. Let them know what you are up to.

Also, consider the distance from other structures in your yard. If the kids are going to make this their second home, you'll want to be able to supervise.