The Sapling Shelter Hut

One of the nice aspects of Middleworld Woods is that there are saplings growing close together in almost every part of the woods.  We experimented with a small group in the common area and came up with a plan to use live saplings to construct a domed shelter hut. I will outline those instructions here.

This is the basic design concept of the hut:

We found several saplings that were growing approximately 10' - 15' apart. Using a heavy rope, we snagged the top of the saplings and pulled them over in an arc and secured them with large zip ties. We used the branches to interweave a latticework between the samplings.  In the Spring, when these saplings leaf out, the leaves will provide a natural covering for the hut.

We took other saplings that needed to be thinned out and created additional support arcs and then used branches, grapevine, etc.. and weaved these in between the support saplings.  We left two sections open for doors.  We cleared the "floor" inside the hut - there's a large enough area inside for a small rock fire ring, should one be desired.  There is also plenty of room for several lawnchairs around the perimeter of the hut.

The photo doesn't do the actual hut justice - from the inside it is much more developed and intricate. It is hard to see this in any of the photos we took.

In addition, we will be planting grapevine, trumpet vine, honeysuckle, and morning glories all around the perimeter of the hut - all of which will eventually grow up and over the entire structure, except for a opening at the top of the hut where smoke from the fire in the fire ring can escape.  The advantage of having this hut in the common area is that we can run an extension cord out to the hut to provide light as needed.  It is also possible to put a small outdoor propane heater in the hut.  The hut is large enough to accomodate 10-15 people, and eventually with the growth of the foliage around the hut, it will provide substantial protection against the cold in the winter months.

These type of huts can be easily built most anywhere in Middleworld Woods.  They make a great alternative to tents as well - I can picture a bunch of these little huts all over the woods at some point.  And the best part is that no trees have to be killed in making these "living" huts.  Hope everyone has a great holiday season, and don't forget the workday next Saturday.