Backyard Inspirations

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Backyard Inspirations: Playhouse Escape

4 Creative Ways to Turn a Playhouse Into a Backyard Adventure!

A playhouse is more than just a structure in the yard — it’s a launchpad for imagination. Fort, tent, castle, clubhouse, or secret hideout… whatever kids decide to call it, a playhouse becomes their space. A place to invent stories, host friends, read quietly, or disappear into make-believe.

If you’re looking for inspiration beyond the basics, here are four fun and creative backyard playhouse ideas that turn everyday outdoor time into something unforgettable.

1. The Classic Hideaway

A timeless space for imagination to run wild

Sometimes the best playhouse is the simplest one. A cozy, enclosed space gives kids a sense of independence and ownership — a place that’s theirs alone.

Ideas to bring it to life:

  1. Add a small table and stools for drawing, games, or snacks
  2. Hang battery-powered string lights or lanterns for a magical feel
  3. Include shelves or storage bins for books, toys, and costumes

This type of playhouse grows with your child — today it’s a pirate ship, tomorrow it’s a quiet reading nook.

Children coloring in a playhouse.

2. The Adventure Escape

Where climbing, sliding, and movement take center stage

Turn your playhouse into an active backyard destination by pairing it with physical play elements. This setup is perfect for energetic kids who love to move.

Creative add-ons:

  1. A slide or climbing ladder
  2. A small deck or lookout platform
  3. Stepping stones or a mini obstacle path leading to the entrance

This style encourages outdoor play, coordination, and confidence — all while keeping kids entertained for hours.

Child playing in wooden playhouse.

3. The Creative Studio

A space for crafts, stories, and big ideas

For kids who love to draw, build, and create, a playhouse can double as an outdoor art studio or imagination hub.

Ways to personalize it:

  1. Chalkboard or whiteboard walls
  2. A craft table with washable supplies
  3. Pinboards or clip lines to display artwork

Having a dedicated creative space outdoors keeps messes out of the house and gives kids a sense of pride in their projects.

Two children playing in playhouse.

4. The Backyard Village

A playhouse that becomes part of a bigger story

Why stop at just one structure? A playhouse can anchor an entire backyard “world.”

Expand the experience with:

  1. A nearby sandbox, garden bed, or fairy garden
  2. A small picnic area for snacks and tea parties
  3. Decorative paths, planters, or signage to define zones

This approach transforms your yard into a place where kids invent ongoing stories and games — day after day, season after season.

Wooden playhouse with slide and sandbox.
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Backyard Inspirations

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A Place to Imagine: Backyard Playhouse Inspiration

4 Ways to Make Your Gazebo Warm, Inviting, and Beautiful at Night!

Children don’t need much to spark their imagination — just a space they can call their own.

A backyard playhouse becomes more than a structure. It’s a fort, a reading nook, a clubhouse, a stage, or a quiet retreat. It’s where mud pies are served, secret plans are made, and creativity takes the lead. Thoughtfully designed and built from durable materials, a playhouse can become a cherished part of family life for years to come.

Here are four backyard playhouse inspiration ideas to help you create a space where imagination can truly run wild.

1. Create a Space That Encourages Imagination

The best playhouses leave room for creativity rather than dictating how the space should be used.

Simple layouts allow kids to transform the playhouse into whatever they imagine — a pirate ship one day, a cozy cottage the next. Windows, shutters, and small doors help bring the structure to life, while open interiors leave space for games, books, or art projects.

Let kids personalize the space with chalkboards, hooks for costumes, or shelves for toys and treasures. A playhouse that evolves with your child keeps the magic alive season after season.

Children coloring in a playhouse.

2. Think Beyond the Walls

A playhouse doesn’t have to stand alone — it can become the centerpiece of a larger backyard adventure zone.

Add a slide, climbing wall, or sandbox nearby to encourage active play. Garden beds or stepping stones can create a sense of “arrival,” while a small deck or porch gives kids a place to sit, share snacks, or watch the world go by.

By connecting the playhouse to the surrounding yard, you create a space that feels immersive and endlessly explorable.

Wooden playhouse with green slide

3. Build with Comfort and Safety in Mind

A well-designed playhouse should feel just as inviting as it is sturdy.

Natural light makes the space feel warm and welcoming, while proper ventilation keeps it comfortable on warmer days. Rounded edges, solid railings, and smooth finishes help ensure the space is safe for everyday play.

Choosing a durable wood like Western Red Cedar means the playhouse can handle years of outdoor exposure without chemical treatments — standing up to weather, moisture, and active use while remaining safe for little hands.

Cozy Cabin Playhouse Western Red CEdar Outdoor Living Today Childrens Playhouse 3

4. Make It a Year-Round Retreat

Playhouses aren’t just for summer.

With thoughtful placement and materials, they can be enjoyed in every season. Shade from nearby trees keeps things cool in warmer months, while a roof overhang helps protect from rain. In cooler weather, the playhouse becomes a cozy hideaway for reading, imaginative play, or quiet time outdoors.

As kids grow, the space can adapt — becoming a homework nook, art studio, or simply a place to relax away from the main house.

sunflower 6x9 Playhouse Western Red Cedar Outdoor Living Today Childrens Playhouse 1

A Backyard Space That Grows With Your Family

A playhouse is more than a childhood feature — it’s an investment in outdoor time, creativity, and connection.

Built with care and quality materials, it becomes a lasting part of your backyard landscape, creating memories that grow right alongside your family. Whether simple or full of playful details, a backyard playhouse invites kids to explore, imagine, and enjoy the outdoors in their own special way.

Looking for inspiration? Explore real backyard playhouse projects and discover how a thoughtfully designed space can transform outdoor play into something truly meaningful.

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Backyard Inspirations – Winter Playhouse

When snow arrives, many parents and grandparents instinctively want to retreat indoors and wait out the winter. Kids, however, tend to see things a little differently. To them, snowfall signals adventure, creativity, and endless opportunities for play.

From snowball fights and snow forts to snowmen and snow angels, winter brings a whole new kind of fun. With the right setup, cold-weather play can be just as memorable and enjoyable as summer days spent outdoors.

Embracing Winter Play

Snow days are something special. Crisp air, quiet mornings, and fresh snowfall create an environment that encourages imagination and active play. As long as kids are bundled up properly and have a warm place to retreat, winter play becomes a joyful experience rather than a challenge.

A backyard playhouse offers the perfect balance. It gives children a cozy, sheltered space where they can warm up, take breaks, store winter gear, and continue their imaginative games out of the elements.

A Cozy Retreat From the Cold

A winter playhouse acts as a home base for outdoor adventures. Inside, children can escape the chill, sip hot chocolate, read books, draw pictures, or plan their next snowy mission. Soft seating, rugs, and simple furnishings help create a welcoming environment that feels safe and comfortable.

This sheltered space also encourages longer outdoor playtime. Instead of cutting fun short because fingers are cold or clothes are wet, kids can recharge before heading back out to explore.

Encouraging Imagination All Season Long

Winter playhouses naturally inspire creativity. One day it might become a mountain cabin, the next a secret hideaway, a winter castle, or a cozy lodge deep in the forest. These imaginative experiences help children build independence, problem-solving skills, and confidence while staying active outdoors.

Having a dedicated structure encourages kids to take ownership of their space and use it in new ways as the seasons change.

Making Winter Memories at Home

A winter playhouse doesn’t just benefit kids—it creates lasting family memories. Parents can watch from the warmth of the house while knowing their children have a safe place to play. Grandparents can enjoy visits filled with snowy adventures and quiet moments indoors afterward.

By embracing winter instead of avoiding it, families can turn cold days into meaningful, joyful experiences right in their own backyard.

Create Your Own Winter Adventure Space

Outdoor living doesn’t have to pause when temperatures drop. With a thoughtfully designed playhouse, winter becomes another season to enjoy, explore, and celebrate.

Need inspiration? Have a look at the many winter-ready backyard spaces shared by our customers, or reach out to us directly.
Create your own backyard adventure space with Outdoor Living Today.

Cozy Cabin Playhouse 9x7 Western Red Cedar Playhouse Outdoor Living Today Cedar Playhouse Kit
Cozy Cabin Playhouse 9x7 Western Red Cedar Playhouse Outdoor Living Today Cedar Playhouse Kit 4
Cozy Cabin Playhouse Western Red CEdar Outdoor Living Today Childrens Playhouse 9
Cozy Cabin Playhouse 9x7 Cedar Playhouse Kit Outdoor Living Today Western Red Cedar Kit 1
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Backyard Playhouses: More Than Just a Structure—A Gateway to Lifelong Memories

A Backyard Playhouse Is More Than Just a Toy

When we think of childhood, we often recall the simple joy of playing outside—running around the yard, building forts, or imagining distant lands. A backyard playhouse brings those memories to life and creates the perfect environment for your kids to form their own.

But this isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about empowering creativity, supporting independence, and encouraging healthy outdoor play. And in today’s tech-saturated world, that’s more important than ever.

Why Every Child Needs Their Own Outdoor Playhouse

A backyard playhouse offers far more than just a pretty addition to your garden. It becomes a sanctuary—a space where your child can:

  • Play independently and safely

  • Host tea parties, secret meetings, or read quietly

  • Develop their imagination and role-play skills

  • Enjoy screen-free time outdoors

  • Learn responsibility by maintaining “their own” space

You might find your yard has suddenly become the neighborhood’s most popular hangout—and that’s a good thing.

Inspiring Playhouse Ideas for Any Yard

At Outdoor Living Today, we believe every child deserves their own space to dream. Whether you have a small yard or a sprawling garden, we offer DIY cedar playhouse kits to match your needs. Made from sustainably harvested Western Red Cedar, our kits are naturally beautiful, resistant to rot and pests, and easy to assemble.

Browse our most popular styles:

You’ll find no shortage of inspiration in our customer photo gallery, where real families share their custom setups—from pirate ships and treehouse hideouts to flower-covered reading nooks.

Easy to Build, Built to Last

Children playing in a wooden playhouse.

Worried about the complexity? Don’t be. Our kits are panelized for quick assembly, and each one comes with clear instructions and all the necessary hardware. No specialized tools are required.

And because we use durable cedar instead of cheap plastic or treated lumber, you can be sure your playhouse will stand up to the elements—and time.

Want to customize it? Add a coat of paint, hang string lights, install a mailbox, or even build a little garden in front. The possibilities are endless.

Beyond Fun: Developmental Benefits of a Backyard Playhouse

Aside from the joy and fun, there are developmental benefits too. A backyard playhouse can help children:

  • Improve social skills through group play and sharing

  • Enhance language skills through storytelling and roleplay

  • Develop a sense of independence and ownership

  • Explore emotional expression in a safe and imaginative space

It’s a small investment that pays dividends in your child’s growth.

Build Memories That Last a Lifetime

At the end of the day, what makes a playhouse truly special isn’t the roofline or the windows. It’s the memories your children create inside. The giggles, secrets, imaginative games, and even the quiet moments of reflection.

With Outdoor Living Today, you’re not just buying a structure—you’re building a foundation for creativity, connection, and joy.

Start your family’s next adventure today!
Browse our full collection of playhouse kits and create a space your children will cherish for years to come.

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Create a Backyard Fort Playhouse That Fuels Your Child’s Imagination

A backyard fort gives kids a space that’s all their own!

Remember how magical it was to have a secret fort as a kid? That cozy hideout where only you and your closest friends were allowed? Forts spark a sense of adventure, creativity, and freedom—and your child can experience all that and more with a backyard fort playhouse.

Whether you build one from scratch or opt for a ready-to-assemble kit, an outdoor playhouse gives kids their own space to dream, play, and grow.

Why Every Kid Deserves a Fort

Outdoor playhouses offer much more than just fun. They foster:

  • Imaginative play

  • Creative thinking

  • Independent exploration

  • Social bonding with friends and siblings

From defending a castle to hosting a tea party, the stories kids tell in their forts become the foundation of lifelong memories.

Design Essentials for a Fort Playhouse

Before building or buying your playhouse, consider these key elements:

Keep It Cozy

Forts should feel snug and secure. A smaller footprint (room for 2-3 kids) creates a better hideout atmosphere. Include a door, a few small windows, and low walls for safety and visibility.

Decor and Furnishings

Let your child help decorate their new space. Add a DIY flag, soft rug, cozy chair, or storage trunk that doubles as a bench. Glow sticks or battery-powered lights add a warm, mysterious vibe. Make sure everything is durable enough to withstand the elements.

Hidden Entry Points

Want to up the mystery? Install a secret entrance behind shrubs or trees, or create a crawlspace tunnel with a low door that only kids can access.

Fort Playhouse Materials: What Works Best?

69 test scaled

While plastic or vinyl structures exist, wooden playhouses are ideal for outdoor settings. Cedar, especially Western Red Cedar, is the top choice because:

  • It’s naturally resistant to rot and decay

  • It smells wonderful and repels pests

  • It blends beautifully into natural surroundings

You can build your own fort using pallets or timber, or choose a pre-designed playhouse kit from Outdoor Living Today made from high-quality cedar.

DIY Pallet Fort: A Fun Family Project

Want to build it yourself? Here’s a basic plan using wooden pallets:

  1. Lay down 1–2 pallets for the floor (use OSB for a smoother surface)

  2. Stand other pallets vertically to create walls, then screw into the base

  3. Sand down splinters for child safety

  4. Build the roof frame with 2x4s and galvanized panels for waterproofing

  5. Add fun accessories like flags, glow sticks, or toy storage bins

This is a great weekend project for parents and kids to tackle together!

Kits vs. Custom Builds: Which Is Right for You?

OptionProsCons
DIY From ScratchCustom design, creative bonding experienceRequires tools, skills
Professional BuildPerfect fit and pro finishExpensive
Cedar Kit (Best Value)Easy assembly, comes with all hardwareLess customization

Our recommendation: choose a cedar kit if you want something fast, sturdy, and child-friendly. Browse our playhouse kits for durable options that ship across North America.

Give the Gift of Adventure

An outdoor fort playhouse is more than just a structure—it’s a space for growth, storytelling, and freedom. Whether they’re hiding from dragons, reading a book in solitude, or dreaming up their next big idea, your child will benefit immensely from having their own space outside.

Add some shrubs around the fort for privacy, or let climbing plants create a natural green curtain. Whatever you do, just make it theirs.

Ready to give your child a magical backyard escape?

Explore Outdoor Living Today’s wooden playhouse kits and let the adventure begin!

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