Birdhouse Bungalow

Peace and Joy from all of us at Barbara Butler Artist-Builder, Inc!

Set atop a retaining wall, this little playhouse is just the perfect size for this family’s small yard. Space is at a premium in the city, and the family likes to entertain, so a play structure that fits into the yard without looking oversized but still big enough to accommodate two energetic twins was essential. Of course, Barbara loves designing for tight spaces! And this certainly isn’t her first foray into structures built into hillsides, tight spaces or on walls. Designing the structure to fit into a yard’s size and aesthetic is as much a part of the design process as designing for play.

As with any structure designed by Barbara, this one includes a ‘loop of play’, keeping the kids moving while playing. Down the slide, up the ladder, through the playhouse and repeat! For more relaxed playtime, the playhouse provides a cozy space to read, have parties or just daydream.

The client was inspired by the classic striped beach cabanas, so Barbara stained the wood wall planks to match that inspiration in soothing blue hues. Inside, the white stained walls help keep the playhouse bright and provide a blank canvas for the kids artwork to decorate.

Small but functional, this adorable playhouse adds a dollop of cuteness to the yard!