Curating Curiosity: Behind the Design of Treehouse Hotels

At Treehouse Hotels, every detail is a conversation starter, from whimsical birdhouses tucked in unexpected places to nostalgic finds that evoke a sense of wonder. Behind these magical moments is Michelle Montalvo, our Director of Visual Design, whose passion for sourcing and repurposing unique treasures shapes the heart of each property. Michelle shares her secrets for sourcing one-of-a-kind pieces, her love for repurposing nostalgic finds, and how Treehouse Silicon Valley’s playful personality came to life. Whether you’re decorating your own home or just curious about the design journey, you’re in for a treat.

What inspires you most when pulling together each property’s unique look and feel, and can you share insights into the creative process behind designing Treehouse Hotels?

The location, design intent, and local community are at the heart of every decision we make when sourcing for Treehouse Hotels. For Treehouse Silicon Valley, I’ve focused on playful and unexpected finds—like quirky gizmos and gadgets—to reflect our proximity to Google’s campus. My golden rule is to ensure that every piece has a purpose and a place, avoiding unnecessary purchases. I love starting with a list and an inspiration board to stay organized and true to the vision.

How do you approach finding unique, standout pieces that capture the spirit of Treehouse Hotels? 

It’s all about the little details that bring the brand to life. Upcycling and repurposing are my favorite ways to give items a second life. Nostalgic treasures that spark joy—like toys or artifacts from my childhood—often make their way into my designs. I hope that these playful touches resonate with our guests and make their stay even more memorable. I always say “One (wo)man's junk is another (wo)mans treasure!

Can you share a recent treasure you uncovered for the Silicon Valley property?

We recently sourced 3,500 vinyl records for the property, and I’m already looking forward to playing a few tunes during the installation! Another favorite find is from a women-owned company that creates birdhouses out of recycled wrapping paper, wire, and fabric. Their mission and craftsmanship really inspired me. Keep an eye out when you visit; you might spot these whimsical birdhouses in unexpected places around the property.

Home thrifting can be an adventure in itself. What are your top three tips for uncovering hidden gems at local markets or vintage shops?

• Make a list. It’s easy to get overwhelmed or distracted by all the amazing finds, so staying organized is key.

• Bring a buddy. A second set of creative eyes can help you spot treasures you might have overlooked. And don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes—you’ll need them to walk every aisle!

• Trust your gut. If you love it, buy it. The best finds rarely wait around for you to come back.

Treehouse Silicon Valley is full of unexpected details and playful design touches. Are there any elements that hold a special story or surprise for our guests?

One standout feature is a restored 1967 Volkswagen Bug that sits proudly in the reception area. What is even cooler than that? Well, it was picked up, washed, hand sanded, restored and spray painted by our General Manager and her family! She did it all at her home and even turned her garage into an auto body shop!  It’s adorned with preserved moss and flowers, making it a true showstopper in the arrival pavilion. We’re also creating a time capsule to be buried on opening day. Each team member contributing to the hotel’s launch will add something meaningful to represent their journey. It’s a way to honor the incredible work and creativity that went into opening this one-of-a-kind property.