The Wisdom of Trees
our orchard
“Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces, I would still plant my apple tree.” —Martin Luther
A few new faces here from the weekend orchard posts on X & IG—welcome!
This has been one of the most fulfilling projects I’ve ever pursued, and a fantastic long-term investment. If all goes well, the business blossoms next year (Year 3, when the trees finally start yielding fruit).
Depending on variety, each tree should produce for 20-60 years.
Beyond the fruit harvest (cider, dried fruit, jams & jellies), we’re exploring hosting small weddings and seasonal events among the trees. Wouldn’t that be fun?!
But the value of our investment transcends finances. The dividends we’re already reaping—a beautiful place to meditate alone, tend fruit trees, or be with family and friends—are priceless.
If you want to experience the orchard firsthand, keep reading…
the wonder of trees
“A tree is our most intimate contact with nature.” — George Nakashima
If design is the greatest lever to evoke feeling (h/t Hans Lorei), then landscapes are my favorite design lever, and trees are my favorite landscape lever.
Trees are awesome—in the truest sense of the word.
Photo credit: Rebecca Saltonstall
While a single tree makes a statement, the effect only compounds when they are clustered in groves, orchards, and forests.
To exist as a nation, to prosper as a state, and to live as a people, we must have trees.” —Theodore Roosevelt
Last night, I was reading The Hidden Life of Trees. In it, a veteran forester reveals how trees communicate, support one another, and function as interconnected communities.
Some fascinating takeaways:
Trees communicate with each other through underground fungal networks
Forests operate like societies, regulating and coordinating temperatures, humidity, nutrients, pest defense, and wind resistance
Trees have “memories,” adjusting growth patterns based on past droughts, pests, and storms
Older “mother” trees nurture younger trees, and even guide the species’ long-term survival strategies!
Even in death, trees enrich the soil with nutrients and act as nurseries for new growth
It’s hard not to see profound lessons on resilience, community, and long-term thinking that trees offer us humans.
tree-inspired hospitality
When creating spaces within nature, let us maintain reverence for these magnificent gifts. Instead of imposing on landscapes, we can build in harmony with them.
This might include:
Elevated platforms that preserve the forest floor
Following natural tree contours to inform architectural shapes
Incorporating living trees into structures, allowing trunks to pass through decks or even walls
And the sensory magic of trees (beyond being beautiful to look at)?
Sound: The creaking of branches in the wind, leaves rustling in the breeze, and cheerful birdsong
Scent: Pine, cedar, and fruit trees offer subtle, seasonal fragrances
Light & Shadow: Sunlight filtering through canopies creates dappled, living light—a dynamic contrast to static interiors
Photo credit: Alex Strohl
The future of tree-inspired hospitality might include:
Reforestation hotels—where every stay plants new trees (hi hinter—they plant 10 trees per guest! 👏)
Living tree structures—where architecture integrates with the forest (treehouses: stilted homes, suspended capsules, spiral ascent structures), rather than removing it
Indoor forests—bringing woodlands into lodges and atriums
Orchard retreats—nestled among rhythmic rows of apple or olive trees, where each season brings wonderful, fresh sights, smells, sounds—and flavors :)
Of course, you don’t need “crazy” innovative designs to make nature the star of the show.
Just being thoughtful in how you place structures and paths around existing trees, strategically planting new ones, and approaching every decision with honor for the natural landscape will translate into spaces that instinctively feel right—because nature is the true centerpiece.
closing thought
“Forests are the lungs of our land, purifying the air and giving fresh strength to our people.” — Franklin D. Roosevelt
Our goal isn’t just to build around trees—it’s to create spaces in harmony with them, woven seamlessly into the landscape. When we build with reverence for nature, we don’t just make beautiful places. We craft environments where you instinctively feel connected to what is timeless.
And that’s experiential—that can change you.
If this resonates with you, let me know—I’ll pull together and share some incredible tree-inspired stays in an upcoming newsletter. And if you enjoyed this, consider forwarding it to a friend. Let’s make the world more beautiful, ripple by ripple.
See you next Monday.
—Isaac
Photo credit: Edward C. Robison III
P.S. Want to experience our farm, orchards, and community way of life? Join us April 25-26 in Texas for our first annual Homesteading Conference! I’m speaking on hospitality & family economy alongside Joel Salatin, Rory Groves, and many others. Use code ISAAC for 15% off here if interested. Hope to see you in person!