The modern playhouse is one of my favorite projects. The customer had compiled a few photos for inspiration that we started from which ended up in an entirely custom build. In this article, we will review the plans, special features, and progress as we were able to come up a special place for tea parties, movie nights, and special events. This lucky little girl will be able to host her own birthday party. How cool is that?
The Plan
We reviewed the ins and outs of the above designs trying to find the exact features and right size. We ended up with the following list that needed to be incorporated into the build.
- Overall size 13′ x 8′
- Overall height 6′
- Squared off windows and doors (vs arched)
- Dutch door
- 4 windows (2 swing open)
- Patio and veranda
- Stained wood floor inside
- Stained wood decking
- Painted interior and exterior
- Interior and electrical lighting
- Architectural shingles
With these details, I headed to the shop to map it all out and get materials. This project took about 3 full days to install. We will walk through this build one day at a time.
The Build
Day 2
Day two’s focus was the veranda and patio. By the end of the day, I was able to install all the windows throughout with just enough time to paint up the doors to be installed next.
The Result
The Exterior
I absolutely loved the color pallet chosen by the customer. The white and beige paint mixed with natural wood made it wispy and warm. The dark hardware popped and the plexiglass windows just made it look even more vintage and sweet. The bold 4×4 posts also made a nice statement on a smaller structure.
The Veranda
This was a most unique part of this playhouse. It had direct access to the inside through saloon-style windows for the host to serve her guests with ease. The space was about 5 ft x 5 ft. Plenty of space for a small table, plants, and maybe even a projector screen for the summer movie nights with friends.
The Door
When considering a playhouse, a fan favorite to add a Dutch door. The top half connects smoothly to the bottom with a slide bolt. I chose slide bolts because they are slim and easy for little ones to manipulate. The door has a dual magnet on the top as well as another slide bolt on the bottom to help keep it closed when they forget to latch it.
The Inside
We simply painted the inside white with a solid back wall. The customer had plans to install wallpaper throughout for a touch of depth, dimension, and color. From the inside, there is easy access to the light switch next the door. On the opposite side of the dual veranda windows is another set of windows that open to the side of the house.
I love how this turned out. It was fun to make something so sweet and functional. This little girl is going to remember her playhouse house for the rest of her life. I hope she and her family are able to make some great memories.
This playhouse looks gorgeous!!