A Symphony of Strength and Elegance: A Tree Net Masterpiece Near Dallas, Texas

Just outside Dallas, Texas, nestled in a sprawling ranch property, stands one of our most dynamic and intricate tree net installations to date. Crafted with precision and care, this project seamlessly blends art, nature, and play into a stunning multi-level design. Born from a client’s vision to surprise his children and grandchildren for Christmas, this custom tree net became the centerpiece of their family’s holiday celebration.

A Last-Minute Vision Turned Reality

The story began in December, when the client reached out at the eleventh hour. His three children and seven grandchildren, aged between two and eleven, were coming to visit from out of state for Christmas. He had already built an incredible play structure complete with a spiral slide, multiple swings, a zip line, and wooden platforms, but he wanted something extra—something truly unique—to add to the experience.

After researching traditional options like cargo nets and catamaran nets, he found them lacking both in aesthetic appeal and functionality. That’s when he discovered Tree Weaves. Recognizing the potential for something far more engaging and beautiful, he entrusted us with the challenge of creating a net that would elevate the entire play area.

Fortunately, we had a brief opening in our schedule and were able to take on the project. With Sam flying in from Boston and River driving from Asheville with his loyal chorky, Peter, we arrived in the Dallas area ready to bring the client’s vision to life.

Designing for Fun, Beauty, and Functionality

The client gave us creative freedom in choosing colors, and we selected a vibrant combination of purple, fuchsia, and red tubular webbing. These bold hues perfectly complemented the tree’s natural beauty, especially its red-hued leaves in the winter season. The interplay of colors and textures created a visually striking yet harmonious design that feels at once futuristic and deeply connected to nature.

The tree net itself winds around the branches in a way that feels organic, almost as if it grew there. Its geometry is inspired by Voronoi patterns, creating a warped, flowing effect that mirrors the natural curves of the tree. The net’s multiple levels spiral upward, offering a variety of passageways, nooks, and crannies to explore. Some areas are tightly woven for stability, while others feature looser patterns that require older children to climb and navigate with four points of contact—a deliberate design choice to cater to a range of ages and abilities.

The net integrates seamlessly with the existing play structure, forming an infinity-like loop of adventure. From the net, children can exit via a spiral slide or a zip line, adding dynamic movement to the experience. Entry points include a ladder of platforms that transitions into either a flat bridge or a woven ladder, connecting the net to other parts of the treehouse.

Balancing Budgets and Creativity

To price this project, we used our spool-based metric, agreeing to a budget of $14,000 for a 14-spool net. This approach allows us to value-engineer designs to fit specific budgets while maintaining high-quality craftsmanship. However, as the piece took shape, it became clear that 14 spools wouldn’t fully realize the client’s vision or our standards of completeness. Rather than compromising the design, we donated an additional two spools at our own cost.

This decision reflects our commitment to delivering work we can stand behind—work that not only meets but exceeds expectations. The final installation used 16 spools and achieved a balanced density, with some areas at premium density and others at medium density.

For a fully luxury design with premium density throughout, we estimate this tree would require 20 to 23 spools. However, we can also create stunning and functional designs with fewer spools, depending on the client’s budget. For instance, a 10- or 12-spool piece could be achieved by reducing the size of the net, simplifying the design, or lowering the density in some areas. Even with fewer spools, we would ensure the piece remains dynamic and engaging, tailored to make the most of the materials while meeting the client’s needs.

This flexibility allows us to work within a wide range of budgets, creating something truly special regardless of the scale.

An Experience Like No Other

This installation isn’t just a structure; it’s an experience. Children and adults alike can climb, lounge, and explore, discovering new angles and perspectives from every level. The design fosters interaction with the tree itself, allowing users to touch its branches and feel a part of the natural environment.

The client’s wish list inspired features that challenge older children while remaining accessible for younger ones, creating a multi-generational play space. The vibrant colors of the net not only complement the tree’s red leaves but promise to offer a fresh aesthetic contrast when the leaves turn green in the spring and summer.

From the elevated vantage points, users can take in breathtaking views of the Texas ranch countryside. Whether gazing at the horizon or looking down through the mosaic of webbing, the net transforms the tree into both a sanctuary and a canvas for exploration.

Crafted With Integrity and Joy

This project stands as a testament to what Tree Weaves does best: blending artistry, nature, and functionality into one seamless creation. The process was as rewarding as the result—working under perfect weather, collaborating with a wonderful client, and bringing a vision to life just in time for the holidays.

We’re proud to have created a piece that feels as timeless as the tree it inhabits. It’s more than just a tree net—it’s a story woven into the landscape, a celebration of play, and a gift to be enjoyed for years to come.