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Yes, a shed can be turned into a kid’s play house—better suited for older children and even possible as a two-storey structure, depending on its size! Here are some ideas and tips to help you get started.
A Play Shed Works for Kids
If you have a shed that’s been sitting unused for a while but is still in good condition, it could make a functional playhouse. Wooden sheds are known for their versatility, and with the blank canvas they offer, you can let your creativity run wild and turn it into your kid’s play haven, bit by bit.
Work with the space you have—even if it’s small, there will be plenty of headroom, and there are ways to maximise the floor space. If it’s bigger, even better!
Have a look at these ideas for inspiration:
Use the play shed as an ‘indoor play centre’
Since you’re limited in how you can use a shed, why not turn it into a space where your little ones (or even teenagers) can enjoy activities similar to those in an indoor play centre? Oh, they’re going to love this idea, so hear us out!
This could include soft play areas, a mini climbing wall, a reading nook, or other fun features. It will take a lot of work, and not to mention the cost, but will it be worth it? Definitely!
You could also take the DIY route to save money, which can add to the fun if you and your child/children enjoy being creative.
Add a ball pool
If you fancy adding a ball pool to your shed playhouse, try using a raised platform (just a few inches high) with low walls or mesh barriers to help keep the balls contained.
You don’t have to go all-out with a full ball pool—a small section of the shed will do just fine if space is tight. However, make sure the shed floor is strong enough to handle both the weight of the balls and the kids playing in them. A floor thickness of at least 19mm is recommended for kids jumping around in the shed.
For extra safety, we’d recommend soft, cushioned flooring like foam mats. A step or ramp is also a good idea to help younger kids get in and out without tripping.
When it comes to the balls, go for BPA-free, non-toxic ones that are big enough to avoid choking hazards. For a small ball pool, you’ll want at least 500 balls for decent coverage, while larger spaces will need 1,000 or more.
Tip: Ball pools can gather dust and bacteria, so give the balls a regular wash with warm, soapy water. A mesh storage bag makes rinsing and drying them much easier.
Overhead net obstacle course
Sounds like a great idea, doesn’t it? But before you go ahead, you’ll need to make sure the shed beams can handle the weight.
If needed, reinforce them with extra bracing or a freestanding frame. This is where you’ll attach the anchor points, like heavy-duty hooks, brackets, or carabiners. Whatever you do, don’t drill into weak or thin panels! And, of course, use high-quality rope or netting to keep everything safe and sturdy.
Make sure the nets are at a safe height so kids won’t fall from too high up. At the same time, check the gaps in the netting—they shouldn’t be too wide, or little ones might slip through. Foam mats or padded flooring underneath will help soften any falls and make the play area safer.
Note: Always keep an eye on young children while they’re using it. Even with all the right safety measures, supervision is key to preventing accidents.
These are just a few ideas for turning a simple shed into a brilliant playhouse for the kids. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box—there are plenty of ways to make it even more exciting, especially if you’re working on a two storey playhouse concept.
Just remember, while adding all the fun features, safety and comfort should always come first.
Specifically Made Playhouse Might Be the Better Choice
Most kid’s playhouses, as garden rooms, comply with the British Standards (BS) EN71, meaning they’re built with kids in mind.
They’re designed to be a safe and fun space for your little one to play, from the materials used to the smooth edges, fire safety, and solid build. You can relax knowing they’re playing in something that’s been tested and certified.
Other safety features included in our playhouses:
- Shatterproof glazing: This shatterproof glazing is a safer alternative to glass, which can break easily and leave sharp edges.
Finger gap around the door: This reduces the risk of pinched fingers when opening or closing. - Non-toxic treatment: It protects the wood from the elements without any harsh chemicals, so you don’t have to worry about your little one being exposed to anything unsafe while they play.
- Ventilation holes: Allow fresh air to circulate inside and prevent stuffiness and condensation. This means a more comfortable space for your child to play in, even on warmer days.
If you’re going ahead with a shed conversion, you can still borrow ideas from these features to make it better suited for play and fun.
This list of ‘Best Playhouses for Toddlers’ offers more design ideas and options, so give it a read!
