Tiny Treehouses: The Backstory
Since the dawn of time we humans have been fascinated by the process - or even just the thought - of creating miniatures of real-life things. Whether it’s a fairy garden, a miniature city you can walk through, or an architect's model, the concept appeals to people of all ages and backgrounds.
So how about a Tiny Treehouse miniature that rests among the leaves of your favourite houseplants? A vision that came to Lars Wijers during the hazy days of Covid-19 lockdowns.
What Was The Inspiration Behind Tiny Treehouses?
“Many people ask how Tiny Treehouses came to be. One afternoon, as I was tending to my plants (I have a small plant obsession), I began to imagine little homes nestled in the greenery where garden elves might live. I sketched a few designs and created technical drawings before developing a selection into prototypes.
That’s when I realised I had created something truly special. This daydream was the seed that eventually grew into Tiny Treehouses.”
About Lars - the Creator
Lars Wijers is the visionary heart behind Tiny Treehouses. Lars is based in Australia and has a background in 3D design with roots deeply embedded in design and architecture - and a special passion for nature and plants.
When he started Tiny Treehouses, he still worked full time as a 3D Designer for Events, Exhibitions, Brand Experiences and Retail Environments, so for the first two years he basically had two full time jobs.
By early 2023, Lars was able to quit his day-job and take the leap into full-time Business Owner.
“My creative spirit doesn't stop there” says Lars “from costuming to puzzles and crafts, my world is one of constant creation!”
Your Order Has Been Shipped - Taking an Idea Through to Delivery
Once the idea was born the whole concept required funding to get off the ground. Lars knew about Kickstarter, a crowd-funding based site for creative start-ups - It’s where creators share new visions for creative work with the communities that will come together to fund them. His campaign to secure funding exceeded all expectations, quickly surpassing his initial fundraising goal.
The overwhelming support affirmed that Tiny Treehouses had struck a chord with crafters and plant lovers alike.
What started as a passion project quickly blossomed into a global brand. In just a few short years, Tiny Treehouses has sold more than 26,000 miniature tree houses worldwide.
A World of Enchanting Products That Spark Joy and Imagination
Tiny Treehouses are more than just 3D puzzles. They are an opportunity to combine creativity, craftsmanship and nature. Whether you're assembling them as a way to relax, as a mindfulness activity, or you’re gifting it to someone, you can be sure that each tiny treehouse built will bring a little magic to the home.
These unique 3D wooden puzzles reflect an intricate, whimsical aesthetic, offering an engaging challenge and a beautiful final product that you can proudly display in your home, slightly hidden within a plant or on display for everyone to admire.
“As a designer, it has been an incredible journey—one that I am excited to continue, with new ideas for products constantly sprouting” says Lars.
From A Kickstart to Global Reach
The success of Tiny Treehouses has been incredible, but it didn't happen overnight. After the Kickstarter campaign, it took 18 months to develop and then produce the first batch of 12,500 treehouses. But by early 2022 we began to fulfil orders and by March 2022, the online store was launched, offering Tiny Treehouses directly to customers in the United States. Since then, Tiny Treehouses have continued to expand their reach, with launches in Australia, Europe and the UK.
2024 Tiny Treehouses Launches in the UK
The journey has been full of learning experiences, from navigating production delays to working with marketing agencies.
“The project took off so quickly, it was like I'd jumped on a speeding train going a thousand miles per hour! 4 years on, I don't feel like I have gotten off that train. But as amazing as the ride was, it was equally as stressful. No amount of research can prepare you for some of the challenges you face along the way.” Says Lars
Lars’ Favourites
2023 was a pivotal year, with their new product launches the Temple of Joy and the Forest Cottage, which has now become the most popular product to date.
These designs reflected a growing exploration of architectural shapes and whimsical storytelling, offering a unique take on 3D model puzzles.
Lars says he “loved creating the Forest Cottage design” as all his other treehouses up until then had been fairly geometric, with balanced architectural features.
“I wanted to explore a more whimsical and storybook style house.” The vision was a randomly stacked set of structures with an eclectic mix of styles and details mushed together. “Whilst this was fun to design, the structure was fairly complex, and it took a while to develop.”
Another notable new product was the Horizons Edge model, which marked the first time Lars played with bendy shapes in the designs. The result was a beautiful set of twin curved roofs, resembling organic bamboo structures found across Asia. “Calculating these shapes in my modelling program was a challenge and a half!”
Development sketches for the Temple Design Range
A Community of Creators
The heart of Tiny Treehouses is the community of crafters and plant enthusiasts who share a passion for creativity and nature. From the moment you start assembling your treehouse to the final piece, Lars’ vision is that you will feel connected to a larger world of like-minded creators.
Tiny Treehouses is on a mission to inspire and enrich the lives of people who enjoy crafting and mindfulness, ensuring that every Tiny Treehouse brings delight and wonder for years to come.
Forest Cottage
What’s Next for Tiny Treehouses?
Looking ahead, I’m thrilled to be able to continue designing and developing new products. There are so many ideas and designs waiting to be brought to life. I’m particularly inspired after a recent trip to Italy, where I’ve sketched out new concepts for future treehouses and architectural styles. Stay tuned for more exciting launches over the next 12 months!
Reading the customers' comments and reviews and seeing how much they enjoy the products, is a heart-warming satisfaction for Lars, “I still have to pinch myself sometimes. I owe everything to the support of my customers.”
"As exhausting as it is running the company by yourself, it's also incredibly rewarding."
At the end of September 2024, Tiny Treehouses celebrated its 4th Anniversary.
“I am so grateful for all the support we have had from our community. None of this would be possible without you.” says Lars
Final Thoughts
Tiny Treehouses are more than just 3D wooden puzzles; they are a gateway to creativity, mindfulness, and joy. Whether you're a plant enthusiast, a crafter, or simply looking for a unique and rewarding project, Tiny Treehouses offer an experience that merges the beauty of nature with the fun of 3D puzzles.
Explore the magic of Tiny Treehouses today and bring a little piece of wonder into your home.
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