Wooden kids’ playhouses are the perfect space for children to let their imaginations run wild. But here’s a fun question: could kids actually live in one? It sounds like something straight out of a fairytale, but when we look at this a bit closer, the idea of kids turning their wooden playhouse into a semi-livable space may not be entirely off the table. Let’s explore the possibility in this short blog post!
It is well-known that a wooden playhouse is a great place for kids to spend hours pretending and playing. But it is important to say that it’s not designed to be a livable space and we can explain why. The thing is that these structures lack vital amenities, such as heating, insulation, plumbing, and electricity that, in real life, make a space comfortable for living. However, a wooden kids’ playhouse can serve as a temporary or cozy solution for short bursts of playtime, reading, or even backyard camping.
If you’re still curious about what it would take for a kids’ playhouse to be transformed into a tiny living space, here are the things that would need to be addressed:
The size of playhouses is usually small, often ranging from 30 to 60 square feet. For kids, this is plenty of space for playing, but living in such a small area could become cramped fast. Bunk beds, cozy nooks, and smart storage would be important to add for making the most of the limited space.
Another important point to address is that most playhouses aren’t built to withstand harsh weather. These playhouses typically don’t have proper insulation, which means they get too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter. If you wanted to make the space livable or usable year-round, you’d need to add proper insulation, seal up any gaps, and possibly even add some weatherproofing to the roof and walls.
A livable playhouse would need electricity, water, and some form of ventilation. Without these, it’s not safe or practical for long-term living. For a weekend camp-out or a few hours of pretend play, a portable fan or solar-powered lights could do the trick, but that’s about the limit of practicality.
While kids might dream of moving into their playhouse full-time, it’s more of a fun fantasy than a reality. You can visit the “Outdoor Home Playground Safety Handbook“ for more information. Let’s look at a quick comparison:
| Feature | Typical Kids’ Playhouse | Livable Tiny Home for Kids |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 30-60 square feet | 100-200 square feet |
| Insulation | None | Fully insulated for all seasons |
| Plumbing | None | Basic plumbing (toilet, sink) |
| Electricity | None | Basic electrical outlets and lighting |
| Safety | Safe for play, but not suitable for overnight stays, only suitable for camping during the warm months of the year. | Meets residential safety standards for children |
While living full-time in a wooden kids’ playhouse isn’t fully real, there are still some fun ways to make it more than just a toy. You could turn it into a backyard “glamping” spot where kids can sleep during warmer months, or make it a cozy study nook or art studio where they can spend hours exploring their creativity. Adding solar-powered lights, cozy cushions, and blankets can transform it into an imaginative getaway right in your backyard.
Can kids live in a wooden playhouse? Not really, but that doesn’t mean these miniature playhouses don’t provide an exciting escape! With the right modifications, they can be transformed into fun spaces for short adventures, creative projects, and hours of imaginative play. So, while your kids might not be packing their bags to move in permanently, they can certainly enjoy pretending they do!
At iPlay Pretend, we specialize in designing and building custom playhouses that fit your yard, lifestyle, and vision. Let us help you create the perfect outdoor space for your kids! Call us at (605) 638-3040.
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Phone: (605) 638-3040
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Address: Spearfish, South Dakota 57783, United States
