Finding connection at The Redcliffe Treehouse

What started as an idea centred around books, Chesterfields, plants and connection has quickly grown into one of Redcliffe’s most unique and welcoming community spaces, with locals embracing The Redcliffe Treehouse as far more than simply a café.

Since opening in December, the venue has evolved into a blend of café, bookstore, boutique retail space and community hub, regularly hosting workshops, meetings, clubs, high teas and gatherings, while also providing quieter corners for people looking to slow down, recharge or simply spend time in a comfortable space.

For owner Cei Heck, creating that feeling of belonging was always the priority.

“I never wavered from the concept of a community gathering place, for everyone, no matter the reason, or no reason at all. Everyone is welcome here,” Cei says.

The vision itself developed organically, with Cei describing the process as “following the bouncing ball” as the space gradually came together around a feeling rather than a rigid business model.

“I had the idea of Chesterfields, books, games and plants, and every design decision was based on how it felt. Either a hell yes or a hell no.”

That softer and more thoughtful approach has clearly resonated with locals, with many repeatedly describing the venue as feeling “like home”.

“The consistent feedback is that it feels like home, and honestly there’s no greater compliment than that. Home is safe, cosy, and where we love to go to recharge.”

A space designed for everyone

Accessibility and inclusion have also been intentionally woven throughout the venue, shaped heavily by Cei’s experience running a successful NDIS business alongside The Redcliffe Treehouse.

Rather than treating accessibility as an afterthought, the space was designed to offer flexibility and choice for all visitors, with wide walkways, wheelchair-friendly seating and a range of gathering spaces allowing people to engage socially or find quieter areas without feeling conspicuous.

“Sometimes we need to find a space and just breathe,” Cei explains.

“There's a choice to gather together or fly solo, without being conspicuous.”

Supporting local creatives

Community connection extends beyond the café itself, with The Redcliffe Treehouse also supporting local makers, artists and small businesses through its retail offering, which includes handmade gifts, candles, artisan products and handcrafted timber pieces from creators across the region.

“Anything made with love and passion deserves to be seen.”

For Cei, some of the most meaningful moments since opening have come from the people working within the business itself, including two teenage employees who recently told her they felt “heard” while working at The Redcliffe Treehouse.

“That nearly brought me to tears. To have two 16-year-old young women who are just finding out who they are tell me they feel heard is amazing,” she says.

A community still growing

Looking ahead, Cei hopes The Redcliffe Treehouse continues growing into what it was always intended to be, a genuine gathering place where people feel welcome, supported and connected.

“We want to fill the space with connection and celebration, a true gathering place, a place of respite, a home where all are welcome.”

Need a space to gather?

The Redcliffe Treehouse offers flexible spaces for business meetings, workshops, community groups, high teas, wellness sessions and social gatherings, with both casual and exclusive hire options available throughout the week.

Exclusive room hire during opening hours starts from $30 per hour, with catering and AV available, while after-hours functions can also be tailored to suit different event styles and group sizes, with pricing starting from $200 per hour.

Community groups can also access non-exclusive use of spaces during opening hours free of charge for gatherings of up to 30 people.

Visit: The Redcliffe Treehouse, 35 Redcliffe Parade, Redcliffe.

Follow The Redcliffe Treehouse on Facebook and Instagram, or visit their website for more information.