Tucked among the trees on a mountainside perch near Asheville, this modern treehouse-like hideaway exists to serve as a family home for the generations.

Samsel Architects’ guiding design principle was to create a house that feels hidden + private while still providing a strong connection between the inside and out.

With a combination of open living spaces and separated bedrooms on both levels, this home has the ability to feel comfortable with a full house or just you and yours.

The Lookout is a balancing act between open and private. The home affords stunning views and plenty of spaces to enjoy nature, but was designed to minimize visual impact on neighbors.

The front of this house is unassuming and concealed. The low profile roof and dark colors help the home blend into the mountainside and shield itself from view. The back of the house generously opens over the steep wooded site culminating in a soaring ledge that floats in the tree canopy. 🌳

Photo tour

Because of the steep site, the back terrace is four stories off the ground and makes the house feel like it’s floating in the tree canopy.

The slim stainless steel railing is designed to be unobtrusive to the views.

At the other end of the main level is the primary suite that can easily be closed off to the rest of the home. A corner window over the bathtub provides a relaxing scene for a soak.

The lower level holds two sizable guest rooms and a bunk room all centered around a main media room. The lower level provides plenty of sleeping spaces for extended family, as well as a secondary hang out spot for watching TV or playing games. See more.*