The Therapeutic Benefits of Building with Wood: A Mindful Practice

Building with wood isn’t just about creating something tangible—it’s an experience that connects us to nature, encourages mindfulness, and sparks creativity. For Luke, the founder and passionate treehouse builder behind TreeTop Co, this craft has been a life-changing journey. In this blog, we explore his experiences, insights, and the many ways working with wood fosters mindfulness, creativity, and connection.

The Joy of Crafting with Wood: Insights from a Treehouse Builder

There’s something uniquely grounding about working with wood. Its natural textures, grains, and imperfections connect us to the outdoors, reminding us of the beauty in simplicity. Unlike many other activities, working with wood demands your full attention. The hands-on process brings a sense of calm and presence that’s hard to find elsewhere.

But what’s it really like to work with wood every day—especially when your projects involve building high up in the trees? To delve deeper into the therapeutic benefits and challenges of this craft, we spoke with Luke, whose career has taken him from the Amazon rainforest to right here in the UK.

Luke’s experiences offer a fascinating perspective on the mindful and creative elements of working with wood, as well as the unexpected adventures that come with building some of the most unique treehouses in the world.

An Adventure in Craftsmanship

What inspired you to start working with wood and building treehouses?

“I met a team of treehouse builders whilst traveling in southern India,” Luke recalls. “At the time, I was also getting into climbing, having been to the epic boulder fields of Hampi in Karnataka and the sandstone crags of Badami. Treehouse building seemed like the perfect blend of adventure—tree climbing and carpentry all wrapped up into one incredible trade. I fell in love with it immediately.”

Luke’s passion for treehouses has taken him to remarkable places, but one project stands out above the rest.

Can you share a memorable project where the process of building was especially therapeutic for you?

“Building in the Amazon rainforest, Peru, with the treehouse community,” he says. “We built one of the tallest treehouses in the world there—32 meters high—and spent five weeks experiencing the jungle. I’m not sure I’ll ever build in such a dramatic setting again. Being above the Amazon canopy, with nothing but trees stretching to the horizon, was incredible. The bugs weren’t that fun, though!”

Mindfulness Through Craft

Building with wood naturally invites mindfulness, but for Luke, the process often demands it.

How does working with wood encourage mindfulness or being present in the moment?

“I’m always incredibly present when working with power tools because I don’t want to chop my finger off or lose an eye!” Luke jokes. “The inherent hazards involved with the work force me to focus and be present. When you stop focusing, that’s when you have an accident.”

Beyond the practical demands, there’s a meditative rhythm to the work.

Are there specific tasks or techniques in the treehouse-building process that feel particularly meditative?

“Climbing. It’s the best feeling—to be high up in a tree. Like with the tools, you have to be focused, calm, and alert to stay safe,” Luke explains.

Do you think the act of building with wood inspires creativity or problem-solving? If so, how?

“Creativity, definitely! Nature is playful and unpredictable. There are no straight lines or square edges. In order to do the carpentry we do and build treehouses that complement the tree’s natural form, we have to be creative,” he says.

Treehouses: More Than Just Play Spaces

Treehouses hold a special place in the world of woodworking. These magical structures aren’t just spaces for kids to play—they’re also a celebration of craftsmanship and creativity. For builders like Luke, crafting a treehouse is an opportunity to blend imagination with skill, all while working in harmony with the natural environment.

Our blog, 16 Treehouse Design Ideas Your Kids Will Never Stop Thanking You For, highlights designs that bring joy to children, but it also hints at the care and thought that goes into creating them. Whether you’re dreaming of building your own treehouse or simply want to explore the possibilities, these ideas showcase the magic and mindfulness that come with crafting spaces in the trees.