Playhouse Ideas: Planning to Build a DIY Playhouse

Do you ever find it difficult to indulge your kids in outdoor activities? Now you and your kids can work on having their very own playhouse. Planning to build a playhouse for the family can be one of the most rewarding processes. This is the perfect season to build something with kiddos and provide hours of amazing entertainment – a perfect incentive to get them playing under the sun, right there in your backyard.

Whether you want a minimalist square playhouse for the corner of your backyard or a full-scale pirate’s ship complete with a crow’s nest, building a playhouse is a fun woodworking project you can do with the whole family. With a playhouse near your house, you won’t have to worry about losing sight of your children, assuring that they will remain safe and supervised as they play. To get you started, we have some of the best tips to consider when planning to build a backyard playhouse.

Step 1. Make a List of Wants & Needs

When planning to build a playhouse, consider the ages of children that will be using the playhouse along with considerations for what will grow with them. Having a list of what each child wants in the playhouse will determine the design details of the playhouse. Knowing their wants and needs is a great way to really utilize the space and make sure the plans are the best for everyone.

Step 2: Set Your Location

Before looking for a playhouse design you would like to build, consider the amount of space you have in your backyard. To find the right location, you will need to check the dimensions of the area where you want to install your playhouse. Surveying your property and planning with your kids is a great way to get them involved and excited about the process. A great place to start would be to choose an area in your yard where the playhouse gets plenty of sunlight and fresh air, is secluded from street views, and is easily observed from the house by adults. While making sure the space is clear of sharp objects and hazardous areas, another element to consider is lighting for nighttime adventures so that they can stay out long after dark, catching those fireflies in the warmer months.

Step 3: Set Design Details & Select Materials

This is the time to let your dreams go wild on paper while planning how you will make your vision a reality. Keeping that list and location in mind, draw it all out. There are great ways to really bring in different elements to make your playhouse one of a kind while thinking the design through.

These days, there is an abundance of budget-conscious materials available to most homeowners, and almost any desired design concept can be achieved through an affordable alternative. For durability, you also need to consider the type of materials that will be used.

Break down the design into a supply list, look for durable materials, and then establish a budget.

Step 4: Establish a Budget

Now that you selected the location and materials for your playhouse, it is important to assess your budget. The average cost of a playhouse ranges from about $1,000 to $5,000, while a custom-made playhouse could be as high as $100,000. From that initial plan and supplies list, get quotes from various places for a well-rounded idea of how much your playhouse will cost. Saving tip: Think beyond the big-box stores and go straight to the local lumber yards. Your budget should cover materials, labor (if contracted out), layout changes, and emergency funds.

Step 5: Have a Realistic Deadline

Next to budget, it's paramount to establish a realistic timeline. Depending on the size and design of the playhouse, it could take about a month or two to complete. The timeline of your project also depends on your own schedule. For example, will you get it done quickly, weekend-warrior style? Or will you chip away on this project during your work-from-home afternoons? Take your time and enjoy the process.

Step 6: Enjoy & Have Fun

This is the very best type of project for letting loose and getting creative. From scoping out the spot to planning and painting it all, building a playhouse is a great way to get kids involved in a project from beginning to end. Don't be afraid to use fun colors and awesome ideas from Wayfair to help furnish your playhouse in unique ways!

Jamin and Ashley Mills are the design duo behind The Handmade Home design studio in Nashville. They help clients locally and nationally achieve realistic, attainable homes while living by their mantra of "we don't believe in the dream home we believe in your home." They've been recognized nationally by numerous TV and media outlets as well as named as two of the most creative people in the country by Country Living Magazine. Check out their designs and creations at thehandmadehome.net as well as on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook.