WORDS VICTORIA JENKINS PHOTOS WILLIAM GODDARD
The ash tree dominates the main living space. Engineered oak flooring is a good partner for the underfloor heating
John created the curved kitchen cabinetry himself, using oak frames and burr yew panels for each unit. The worktops are made from granite
It took John and Nicki Beavan the best part of 10 years to build this octagonal treehouse – partly because they didn’t want to cause shock to the living ash tree that grows inside it. “It was also partially down to the expense of the process, in addition to the endless hoops we had to jump through in order to obtain planning permission for the project,” says Nicki.
Labour of love
The couple live in a medieval Grade II listed farmstead in rural Worcestershire. Spread over 25 acres of mixed leys and woodlands, the pair have restored the property from the derelict state it was in when they first purchased it in 2001. Despite having six children at the time, including a set of twins, the Beavans worked hard for the next several years to refurbish the dwelling. At the same time, John continued his work as a master cabinet maker and Nicki helped run the farm, which had cattle, sheep and poultry.
Another set of twins, including one with cerebral palsy, arrived soon after the couple moved in. Now, there are just twins Willow and Woody, both aged 15, at home. Big sister Felicity, 20, lives in the treehouse. However, 12 years ago, is was a different story. So why, in 2007, did the Beavans decide to put themselves through the stress of another project like building the treehouse? “We had an area of land that just wasn’t suitable for our traditional Hereford cattle,” says Nicki. “It’s a wooded area with ponds and brooks running across it, which is extremely beautiful and peaceful. When we were going through difficult periods, we’d walk down there together. The water and the tranquillity helped us to release all the tension.”