10 Cool Ideas for Backyard Retreats and Playhouses

Summer is around the corner, and the outdoor world is beckoning. What better way to enhance outdoor living than with a cool new structure in the backyard? Whether you dream of lounging in a hammock in your own bugproof pavilion, hosting friends for the weekend in a revamped vintage Airstream or getting away from it all in a rustic writer’s cabin, these 10 ideas for outbuildings are here to get your creative wheels turning. Just imagine the possibilities.

1. Screened pavilion. Even better than a screened-in porch, a screened pavilion is like having a summer house in your backyard. String up a hammock and put a game table inside, and relax all evening, immersed in the ambience of the summer night … without bug bites.

Read about this Minnesota cooking pavilion


2. Airstream. What could be more classic than the iconic silver bullet that is the Airstream trailer? Spruce up a vintage model and use it as a guesthouse for visiting family and friends.



3. Winged cabin. It’s clear why this structure is called Hawk House — it looks like it’s ready to take flight. Part rustic cabin, part modern innovation, this little shed would make a fabulous writer’s retreat or guest quarters.

Read about this Big Sur hideout


4. Japanese teahouse. Hidden in a far corner of the garden, nestled among trees, a traditional Japanese-style teahouse would make a restorative retreat for meditation and, of course, tea — with or without the ceremony.


5. Getaway with a deck. A one-room modern structure perched on a steep lot turns what would have been virtually unusable space into a welcome refuge from daily life. Use it to house guests or simply to feel like you’re getting away from it all without leaving home.


6. Hobbit house. Why not have a pint-size, hobbit-style playhouse in the backyard? This one is actually large enough for adults and kids to enjoy.


7. Glass house. Airy and light, this garden structure can do double duty as a plant nursery and hangout area. Recycle old window frames and building materials to cobble together your own unique take on this design.


8. Gypsy caravan. Add a curved roof, a Dutch door and a lucky horseshoe, and suddenly that basic shed has been transformed into something utterly charming. Use it as a spot to take your afternoon tea, or set up a mini art or writing studio inside.


9. Tree house. Why should kids have all the fun? This tree house was designed with kids and grownups in mind — it’s equipped to handle sleepovers and dinner parties.

See more of this Colorado treehouse


Here you can see the tree house deck, with a lovely spot for sitting and enjoying the view.


10. Tiny house. The tiny house movement isn’t just for primary residences — a pint-size dwelling can also be a great option for housing an in-law or visiting guests, or you can even rent it out.



Tell us: Do you dream of adding a structure to your backyard? What would you use it for? Share your ideas in the Comments.

Get more ideas from inspiring outbuildings

URL: 10 Cool Ideas for Backyard Retreats and Playhouses http://www.decor-ideas.org/cases-view-id-23553.html