Building a customized playhouse for your child is an amazing way to spark their imagination and give them a special place to call their own. But whether you’re thinking up a fairy-tale cottage, a pirate ship, or a mini superhero hideout, there are a few key things to consider to make sure the playhouse is both fun and functional.
Here are three helpful tips to get you started.
Get Your Kid Involved in the Design
Kids have huge imaginations, and getting them involved in the design process makes the playhouse feel like it’s truly theirs. Plus, they’ll be more excited about playing in a space they helped create!
Start with a fun brainstorming session. Sit down with your child and ask them what their dream playhouse looks like. Do they imagine a medieval castle with a moat, a science lab with gadgets and gizmos, or a jungle treehouse with swinging vines? You can even break out some crayons and paper and let them draw what they see in their mind. Once you’ve gathered their ideas, try to narrow them down into a theme that makes sense. You could make a mood board together using pictures from magazines, apps, or printed images that match the vision.
And let your child pick out their favorite colors, patterns, and accessories!
Hire a Carpenter
While DIY projects can be great, hiring a professional carpenter is how you get a playhouse built safely and looks fantastic. Plus, a carpenter means you get to add any complicated ideas that go beyond basic DIY skills.
Start by looking for carpenters who have experience with custom builds. Check out their portfolios and see if they’ve done anything similar to what you have in mind. When you find a few promising candidates, set up consultations to discuss your ideas. And bring along your child’s drawings and any mood boards or sketches you’ve made together.
Think About Safety and Flexibility
You want your child to have the time of their life playing in their new space, but safety has to come first. And if the playhouse can adapt as your child grows, even better, it’ll stay their favorite spot for years.
Start with materials that are safe for kids. For example:
- Go for non-toxic paints and finishes, especially if your child has allergies or sensitive skin.
- Choose sturdy, splinter-resistant woods like cedar or redwood, which are also naturally resistant to insects and decay.
- Make sure all corners are rounded off, and any exposed hardware is either covered or safely out of reach.
- Install enough guard rails
And for flexibilty, you want to use adjustable shelving, movable furniture, and modular storage that can change as your child’s interests evolve.
By following these tips, you can create a customized playhouse that’s a fun, safe, and adaptable space where your child’s imagination can truly run wild!
