Once upon a treetop by AODA Design | A Harmonious Living Space for Humans and Pets

The design concept for "Once Upon a Treetop" is to create a harmonious living environment for humans and their pets...

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Project's description: The clients are a couple with four cats and two medium-to-large dogs. Previously, they lived in a rental property where all the animals shared the same space, lacking vertical separation. This environment led to issues between the cats and dogs, particularly affecting one of the three-legged cats, which required regular behavioral counseling due to emotional stress.

The clients approached us to provide a permanent home for their pets. Our team, with extensive experience in caring for both cats and dogs, deeply empathized with their needs and the location of their new home. After hearing their story, we began the design discussions in April 2023, which spanned over four months. Construction commenced in September 2023 and was completed in April 2024.

Design Concept:
The design concept for "Once Upon a Treetop" is to create a harmonious living environment for humans and their pets. Given the large number of animals, we first distinguished the movement paths of humans and dogs, and humans and cats, ensuring every member has enough space to live and rest without losing companionship and intimacy.

Site Constraints and Considerations:
The primary constraint was balancing the spatial needs of six animals within a limited indoor area. We added vertical elements such as cat trees, elevated walkways, and multi-level platforms to provide necessary space for the cats to climb and explore, adding visual interest and unique aesthetics.

Challenges and Solutions:
One major challenge was ensuring high-quality materials and finishes within the client's budget. We prioritized key areas such as flooring for its durability and pet comfort. Collaborating with specialized pet furniture makers allowed us to create bespoke pieces that perfectly fit the space and met specific animal needs.

Material Strategy:
We selected robust and easy-to-clean materials to achieve a pet-friendly and durable interior. Floors were covered with scratch-resistant and non-slip surfaces for safety and comfort. Walls and furniture had non-toxic, washable finishes to ensure health and safety. Natural materials like wood and stone were incorporated to create a warm atmosphere.

Architect: AODA Design
Location: New Taipei City, Taiwan
Year: 2024
Photography: Studio YHLAA