Architects Branch Out: 13 Clever Buildings That Are Literal Tree-Huggers

Instead of chopping down trees to construct their buildings, these architects incorporated existing oaks, ficus, palms, and other varieties into their structures, sometimes as a natural design element, sometimes as integral support of the building. Each project shows tree-human cohabitation at it’s most literal–and the results are striking.

But more importantly, these tree-saving designs bring up an important point: How can we change our living situations and habits to be more mindful of nature? How can we work with nature, instead of against it?

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