Considering a tiny house? Wondering if it's for you? In Wuppertal, you can find out firsthand. The "1Step2AllStars Tree House" sits nestled in verdant surroundings along a quiet residential street, just 2.5 kilometres from the city centre. It offers comfortable accommodation complete with mountain views, a terrace, balcony, and air conditioning. Designed like a hotel room and accessed via 50 steps from the car park, this compact retreat features a generous layout: a bedroom with double bed, kitchenette, comfortable seating area with armchairs and table, a mezzanine reading nook, and a fully appointed bathroom with shower and toilet. Remarkably, all of this fits within a mere 21 m².

Wuppertal architect Ingo Hanel designed and built this "tree house," which appears to float above the sloped terrain on delicate stilts. The dramatic black aluminium façade is wrapped with gently golden aluminium bands stretching 733 metres in total length. "The tree house was meant to function as a work of art—expressing something extraordinary while protecting the space within," explains façade specialist Mike Fleischer, who oversaw the design and execution of the outer shell. Drawing inspiration from nature, the cladding echoes a silkworm's cocoon, where protective threads envelop the life inside. The seven-metre-long side is primarily covered in aluminium bands, while the front gable wall remains open, showcasing a striking 4.52-metre window accentuated by its black frame. The rear section, housing the bathroom, features sliding panels that create a beautiful interplay of light and shadow. Inside, natural spruce wood cladding infuses the space with warmth and tranquillity, complemented by dimmable lighting throughout. "My girlfriend Simone Jung, an interior designer by trade, and I have realised a dream with this Tiny House," says owner Jens Grabowski. "We've travelled extensively over the years and discovered our passion for hospitality." His recommendation for guests? "Simply lie in bed, savour the forest views across the way or take in the city lights, and let the evening unfold."

Photography:
Ralf Dieter Bischoff
ralfdieterbischoff.de

(Published in CUBE Düsseldorf 04|24)