Will Beilharz, designer and founder of ArtisTree, has completed the Yoki House, the fifth eco-luxury addition to the treehouse resort at Cypress Valley Canopy Tours in central Texas.

Nestled between two old-growth bald cypress trees, the romantic rentable treehouse takes inspiration from the spring-fed creek that lies 25 feet below the suspended structure.

“Water is life—one of our most precious resources, and Artistree treehouses are designed to let people experience nature’s resources more intimately,” says Will, who christened the treehouse ‘Yoki’ after the Hopi Native American word for rain.

The theme of water is referenced everywhere from the Onsen-style soaking tub in the detached bathhouse to the strategically placed windows that frames views of the babbling creek. The minimalist design uses locally and sustainably sourced natural materials such as Elm, cypress, and spruce to strengthen the getaway’s connection with the outdoors.

The entry sequence to the 500-square-foot treehouse begins with a 60-foot-long suspension bridge connecting to a rooftop observation deck with a spiral staircase that leads down to Yoki’s curved “front porch,” a perfect spot for bird watching and morning coffee.

The glazed entrance door opens up to the spacious, light-filled living room with a small dining area, kitchenette, and loft. The master suite, equipped with heating and air conditioning, is furnished with a king-size bed.

“From an interior design perspective, we wanted clean, warm wood tones to make it feel almost like you were inside of a tree,” Will explains of the abundance of honey-hued birch. Massive windows create an immersive feel and blur the lines between indoors and out.

Will also cites Japanese minimalism and Turkish decor styles as inspiration behind Yoki’s cozy yet elevated atmosphere. “The simple yet intentional interiors were designed to encourage guests to look outside at nature, or look inside at themselves,” he adds.

On the other end of the suspension bridge sits the 250-square-foot bathhouse at the edge of the ravine. There, guests can enjoy a relaxing soak in a custom, Onsen-style tub placed in front of floor-to-ceiling windows for bird watching and stargazing. The bathhouse also includes a separate shower.

“Each space is curated with nature enthusiasts in mind, making it a perfect getaway from the city: a place where quiet stillness gives way to the soft cicada’s summer song; where there is space and time for complete introspection, innovation, and rejuvenation of the spirit.”

A night at Yoki starts at $600 USD a night. Head to Cypress Valley Canopy Tours to book your stay.

Project Credits:

Builder/ General Contractor: ArtisTree / @artistree_treehouse

Structural Engineer: Highland Lake Engineering

Landscape/ Lighting/ Interior Design: ArtisTree

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