This voice-activated, solar-powered treehouse will even serve you a beer
Jono Williams with the Skysphere, a radical reinvention of the treehouse for the digital era. The New Zealand engineer has spent three years and over $50,000 on the project so far.
courtesy jono williams
The Skysphere cabin is 33 feet off the ground and offers a 360 degree view. The interior is packed with bespoke digital features.
jono williams
The Skysphere is based in Williams' native Palmerston, on New Zealand's North Island, but he believes it could be located anywhere.
jono williams
Conditions in the cabin can be controlled remotely through mobile app, including lighting, temperature and sound system.
jono williams
Power is supplied by flexible solar panels on the roof.
jono williams
"I really enjoy making new and original things," Williams told CNN. "The Skysphere was basically an opportunity to express myself as an artist and engineer."
jono williams
"I am most pleased with my in-couch, refrigerated, beer dispenser. This allows me to press a button on my phone and have a cold beer served directly to my hand."
jono williams
Williams' beer dispenser holds 12 cans and refrigerates another 36. The app allows him to maintain an optimal temperature and sends an alert when supplies are running low.
jono williams
The app menu for controlling the cabin conditions.
jono williams
There are 270 square feet of living space in the Skysphere. More than enough for a queen-sized bed.
jono williams
"From an early age I have always liked to make things," Williams wrote on his website. "The only difference these days is I import four tonnes of steel from China instead of raiding building sites for wood to build my tree houses."
jono williams
Williams and friends cutting the windows to fit, which he intends to upgrade. "I would like to add electronic smart film window tint that allows me to control the transparency of the window via my app."
jono williams
The New Zealander has been overwhelmed by the attention the project has received, including dozens of requests to buy one. "I would love the design to be spread widely," says Williams. "It would be my dream job to design things like the Skysphere everyday."
jono williams
Williams says the Skysphere has been popular with his friends but he treasures the 'me time' it offers. "I often go up there to grab something, and find myself sitting down, listening to music and having a snack. Next thing I know, four hours have passed."