A cubby house is a small play structure designed specifically for children to play, imagine and explore in a safe, designated space. In simple terms, it’s a child‑sized playhouse — often made of timber, plastic or fabric — that mimics a mini home, den or clubhouse in the backyard, playroom or nursery. Cubby houses are beloved because they offer kids a private little world of their own, stimulating creativity, social play and gross motor skills in fun, active ways.
Here’s why Australians love cubby houses: they turn outdoor and indoor spaces into engaging, playful environments that bring families together. The main reason Australians invest in cubby houses is that they blend durability, imaginative play and social interaction, giving children a secure place to explore, pretend and develop. Whether it’s turning a cubby into a “shop”, a “castle”, or a secret hideout, these structures invite hours of healthy, active play for kids of all ages.
Cubby houses come in a variety of styles, materials and sizes to suit different spaces, budgets and play needs across Australia.
Classic and sturdy, wooden cubby houses are often built with weather‑treated timber for longevity. They’re ideal for backyards and gardens and can be customised with paint, windows or verandahs.
Made from durable plastic panels, these are lightweight, easy to assemble and low‑maintenance — perfect for smaller outdoor spaces or playrooms.
For crafty families who love projects, DIY kits include pre‑cut pieces that you can assemble and customise with paint, fabrics and décor.
Soft, portable cubbies made from fabric or canvas are great for indoor play, naps, reading nooks and quiet corners, and are easy to store when not in use.
These have raised platforms, stairs or ladder access, adding an element of adventure and physical play suitable for slightly older children.
From fairy tale castles to pirate ships or miniature beach huts, themed cubbies spark specific types of imaginative play and tie in beautifully with kids’ interests.
Some families opt for permanent, custom‑built structures integrated into decks, sheds or garden landscapes for a long‑lasting, personalised play space.
Each style varies by size, material, safety features and play features, allowing you to pick a cubby house that matches your child’s age, activity level and your available space.
Selecting the right cubby house requires thinking about space, age appropriateness, safety, materials and weather conditions.
Measure your backyard, patio or indoor area before choosing a cubby — ensure there’s enough clearance for safe play and easy supervision.
For toddlers, choose low, enclosed cubbies without elevated platforms. Older kids may love taller, more complex cubby houses with stairs and windows.
Timber: durable, classic, customisable but requires maintenance (sealant/paint).
Plastic: lightweight, weather‑resistant, minimal upkeep.
Fabric/Canvas: best for indoor use or sheltered spaces.
Look for structures with rounded edges, secure anchoring, non‑toxic finishes and smooth surfaces. Ensure there’s no sharp hardware exposed.
If the cubby will stay outdoors, choose weather‑treated materials and consider adding a roof, shading or waterproofing.
Some cubbies arrive flat‑packed and require DIY assembly; others are ready‑to‑go. Consider whether you’ll DIY or need professional help.
Balance initial cost with long‑term value. A sturdier cubby might cost more upfront but lasts longer and provides years of play.
In simple terms, the best cubby house is one that fits your space, suits your child’s developmental stage and offers long‑lasting, safe play.
Cubby houses aren’t just fun — they provide physical, cognitive and emotional benefits that support healthy child development.
Cubby houses give children a “world” of their own — where they invent roles, scenarios and stories that build creativity and language skills.
With siblings or friends, cubbies become spaces for co‑operative play, negotiation and teamwork.
Climbing, crawling and stepping in elevated or structured cubbies help gross motor skills and coordination.
A cubby house becomes a safe retreat where a child can explore, read, draw or play quietly and independently.
Parents and caregivers can join in the fun, guiding play and making memories that strengthen bonds.
In backyards, cubby houses make outdoor time more attractive, reducing screen time and encouraging fresh‑air play.
Fabric and modular cubbies bring play into children’s rooms, playrooms or multi‑purpose spaces, adaptable to rainy days or cooler climates.
Whether it’s a daily play ritual or a weekend adventure zone, cubby houses help children learn through play, movement and imagination.
At House of Isabella Australia, we know that children’s play spaces — including cubby houses — should be both joyful and well integrated with your home design. While we don’t sell cubby houses directly, we help you create stylish, functional complementary décor and outdoor spaces that enhance play areas.
Here’s why Australians trust House of Isabella:
Buy Now, Pay Later with Afterpay & Zip for budget‑friendly decorating
Fast delivery Australia‑wide direct to your home
East & West Coast warehouses for speedy dispatch
Large in‑stock catalogue of outdoor rugs, playroom storage, furniture and décor
Exclusive, unique designs perfect for family homes
Australian‑based customer care for personalised guidance
Pair your cubby house with these curated pieces:
Outdoor rugs to define play zones and add comfort underfoot
Weather‑resistant seating for supervising adults
Decorative cushions & soft mats inside the cubby for cosy comfort
Planters and greenery to integrate the play area into your garden aesthetic
Shade umbrellas or pergola accessories to protect play zones from sun
Inspirational aesthetics from brands like Florabelle Collection, Zaffero, Emac & Lawton, Gallery Home, Café Lighting & Living and OneWorld Collection help you style play spaces that feel aligned with family living — included purely for contextual inspiration.
Cubby houses in 2025 reflect broader trends in outdoor play, child wellbeing and intentional home design in Australia.
Eco‑conscious parents prefer cubbies made from sustainably sourced timber and natural finishes that age beautifully outdoors.
Cubby houses that double as storage, reading nooks or craft zones maximise play and practicality.
Play spaces are increasingly part of landscaped backyard rooms, blending with gardens, dining areas and lounges.
Australian families are personalising cubby houses with colour themes, chalkboard walls, name plaques and fairy‑light accents, inviting unique emotional connection.
Designs that consider varied ages and abilities, including wider entryways and sensory play features, are highly sought after.
These trends emphasise that cubby houses are more than toys — they’re part of holistic, intentional family living and outdoor play culture.
Cubby houses can be both playful and beautifully integrated into your yard or home.
Place a weather‑rated rug under and around the cubby to define the play area and add comfort.
Match the cubby’s colour palette with garden décor, cushions and planters for a harmonious look.
Inside the cubby, add cushions and throw blankets to make it inviting for reading and quiet play.
Use potted plants or raised garden beds to soften edges and make the space feel natural.
String lights or solar lanterns around the cubby make it inviting at dusk and add ambience to evening play.
Design cues might take inspiration from brands like OneWorld Collection, Zaffero or Emac & Lawton, included purely for aesthetic context.
Outdoor Play Solutions
Kids’ Garden Décor
Playroom Furniture & Storage
Timber Furniture Explained
Weather‑Resistant Materials
Outdoor Living Essentials
These related terms help link cubby houses with broader home, garden and family design topics.
Mentions of brands such as Florabelle Collection, Gallery Home, Café Lighting & Living, Zaffero, Emac & Lawton and OneWorld Collection are included purely for descriptive and contextual purposes. House of Isabella Australia is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with these brands.
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