From Backyard Fort to Family Legacy
Firefly Forts began with a simple backyard build. When Mike crafted a fort for our own kids, it became more than just a play structure. It became the heart of our family’s outdoor life. Time slowed down. Laughter got louder. Connection came easily.
We quickly realized we weren’t just building forts. We were creating spaces where memories live.
What started as our family’s way to unplug and reconnect has grown into a business rooted in storytelling, craftsmanship, and joy. Today, we help families across the country build meaningful spaces that grow with them. Spaces full of wonder, play, and possibility.
One Dream. Three Families. Countless Memories.
Firefly Forts is built on connection, not just for the families we serve, but within our own team. We're proud to be a family-run business with roots in Atlanta, South Florida, and Nashville, each led by people who believe in the magic of childhood, the power of design, and the joy of building something unforgettable.
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Atlanta & Commercial Designs
The Original Firefly Fort
Meet Kristin
Atlanta is where it all began. Kristin and her late husband Mike created the first Firefly Fort for their own children, never imagining the legacy it would spark.
After Mike passed away, Kristin continued building the dream they started, bringing imagination, care, and connection to families across Georgia.
From backyard forts to custom designs, every Atlanta build carries a little piece of Mike’s spirit: joyful, thoughtful, and built to last.
"This work is deeply personal to me. It's about honoring family, creating space for togetherness, and living out the legacy of my husband, Mike. What began as his dream has grown into our family's way of spreading joy and connection - one fort at a time.”
– Kristin
South Florida
Coastal Builds With Big Imagination
Meet Valerie & Evan
Evan and Valerie Prentiss, Miami natives and parents of two daughters, never expected a backyard project to change their path. During the quiet of 2020, Evan, a firefighter and Valerie, a pediatric nurse practitioner, were seeking new ways to support their preschooler through play.
True to Evan’s motto, “Why buy it when we can build it?” he crafted a play fort in their yard. That simple structure quickly sparked interest from neighbors who wanted backyard forts of their own.
Soon after, Evan and Valerie connected with Firefly Forts founders Mike and Kristin Scaglione. Inspired by their mission, they brought Firefly Forts to South Florida creating handcrafted outdoor spaces where families can slow down, connect, and rediscover the magic of childhood under the palms.
"For us, building forts is about using our gifts and talents to create well-crafted spaces where families in South Florida can slow down, step outside and rediscover the joy of play and time together” – Valerie & Evan
Commercial Designs
Americana Architects
Meet Brian
Firefly Forts partners with architect and builder Brian Johnson of Americana Architects to bring bold, story-driven design to our most ambitious builds. Based on Long Island, Brian brings decades of experience in architecture and construction, blending nostalgia, craftsmanship, and American charm into every project.
A registered architect with a passion for family-centered spaces, Brian joined forces with Firefly Forts in 2022 on our high-end commercial and celebrity build division. Whether designing a luxury treetop guest suite or a boutique hospitality hideaway, his work honors the land, the story, and the spirit of adventure.
Together, we’re reimagining how families, guests, and communities experience the outdoors, one handcrafted design at a time.
"My best childhood memories were made in the old tree fort behind my house—a place where imagination ran wild and anything felt possible. That fort is long gone, but my designs aim to bring out the inner child in all of us.” – Brian
The Why Behind Every Fort
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Our Mission
We design and build heart-centered, custom-crafted treehouses that inspire play, nurture family bonds, and elevate guest experiences while carrying forward Mike’s legacy of joy, wonder, and craftsmanship.
Our Vision
To create a world where handcrafted spaces spark connection, imagination, and adventure, whether in a family’s backyard or a luxury retreat.
Our Core Values
Imaginative
We create spaces that spark curiosity, creativity, and the freedom to dream big.
Family Centered
Every build is rooted in values that bring people together and honor shared memories.
Handcrafted
We prioritize thoughtful craftsmanship, blending beauty, safety, and quality in every detail.
Heartfelt
Every design honors connection and Mike’s legacy of love and purpose.
Elevated
We merge nostalgia and luxury to create truly one-of-a-kind spaces.
Resilient
We grow through challenges and remain grounded in our mission of joyful, intentional design.
