Swinging Through Luxury

By Hannah Fakhrzadeh

San Francisco builder Barbara Butler hand-designs and crafts elaborate play structures for children combining childhood fantasies with architectural know-how. Her client list includes Gwen Stefani, Will Ferrell, Robert Redford, Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith, Kevin Kline and Phoebe Cates, and Walt Disney Productions. The structures range from small, cozy cabins to big tree houses to large play forts complete with monkey bars, rope swings, bridges and anything the imagination can conjure.

Fort Mediterranean

Inspired by the Mediterranean-designed main house, this tree house reaching over 51 feet is a life-sized replica for children to explore and use their imagination. Its bright-colored décor will catch the eye of any explorer. This expansive adventure land provides obstacles including multiple playhouses, bridges and numerous hiding spots. From almost every floor of this playhouse, the majestic view of the land below will allow children the dream of controlling their land. Children can escape through the multiple exits including a fire pole, a full-size rock wall or through the slide, stairs and bridges. Offered at $127,150.

Napa Valley Twin Chalets

This life-size home was made to accommodate two pre-teen girls who wanted more room. The dream play structure comprises two luxury playhouses, which are fully finished inside. They feature glass doors, windows, electricity and built-in furniture. Features include French doors, a bathroom, balconies, a turbo-tube slide and fire pole. Offered at $273,900.

NJ Playland

Butler’s largest design was made for a grandmother in New Jersey who wanted her grandchildren to have an area in her property where they could explore and use their imagination. NJ Playland has everything children may need to defend their fantasy kingdom. It features a double playhouse and a stacking fortress connected by a straight bridge over three swings and a swinging bridge. Kids can run wild, climbing the monkey bars and rock walls that surround portions of this play castle. If they choose, the children also can swing on the swings or slide down the slides and fire pole. Offered at $224,360.

**All photos courtesy Barbara Butler Artist-Builder Inc.**