The Steampunk Tree House – Large-Scale Immersive Public Sculpture
A Five Ton Crane Arts Group collaboration
The Steampunk Tree House (2007) is a monumental, immersive sculptural installation that helped launch the Five Ton Crane Arts Group and ultimately Engineered Artworks. Conceived as a fusion of industrial design and natural symbolism, this large-scale public art fabrication project stands as an iconic example of community-driven creative collaboration.
Fabricated from steel, recycled wood, and salvaged industrial materials, the Tree House is suspended on a dramatic framework of angular metal boughs. Its Victorian-inspired design pays tribute to the worlds of Jules Verne, H.G. Wells, and steampunk aesthetics—fusing artistry with storytelling and environmental symbolism. The structure’s functional steam calliope, detailed clockwork elements, and immersive interior make it a one-of-a-kind piece of kinetic and architectural art.
Commissioned through a grant and originally exhibited at Burning Man, The Steampunk Tree House was permanently installed in 2010 at Dogfish Head Craft Brewery in Milton, Delaware, where it continues to inspire visitors. This early project was a springboard for the artists who later formed Engineered Artworks, and it exemplifies their unique approach to custom sculpture fabrication and imaginative placemaking.
The Steampunk Tree House was featured in the Taschen book: Tree Houses: Fairy Tale Castles in the Air.
Concept & Fabrication: Five Ton Crane Arts Group
Specs:
40’ x 40’ x 20’
Metal, wood, textiles, reclaimed materials
Immersive mixed media
Functioning steam calliope