There’s no rulebook for a child’s imagination. Just give them a cubby and watch the ideas flow. From tea parties to backyard pirate ship adventures, these little spaces spark hours of creative play. Our Piper Cubby House is a beautiful example of a versatile play space that grows with your child’s imagination.
At HipKids, our cubby houses and accessories bring those ideas to life. With thoughtful designs, easy DIY upgrades, and clever hacks, even a small makeover can go a long way. We’ve got all the kids cubby house decorating ideas you need to make it happen.
Choosing a Theme That Grows With Your Tot
Some cubby house ideas fade fast while others grow with your tot. Choosing a theme that taps into your child’s interests helps keep the play going strong. A café today might be a space station tomorrow, and that kind of imaginative play is where the magic happens.
Let your little one take the lead. These tips can help guide the way:
- Ask your child what kind of pretend play they enjoy most and build around that.
- Use simple props or colours to hint at a theme without locking it in.
- Keep it open-ended so their cubby can grow as their interests change.
Tried and True Cubby House Styles for Aussie Families
Every playhouse has its own personality, and style plays a big part in shaping that. A few design trends have stood the test of time for Aussie families and work beautifully in any backyard play space.
Here are a few favourites:
- Scandinavian minimalism keeps things clean with pale timber, soft neutrals, and simple lines.
- Rustic charm uses weathered wood, gingham, and natural textures to create a homely feel.
- Coastal brings in breezy blues, stripes, and light finishes for a relaxed look.
Each cubby house design can carry these styles with small touches. Think soft furnishings, potted herbs, or a fresh coat of paint to shape the feel.
Colour Schemes That Make Cubby Houses Pop
Once you’ve picked a style, colour is where the fun begins. It brings personality to a wooden cubby and helps tie the whole play space together.
Soft greens, muted blues, and creamy whites work well outside, especially with natural timber. Inside, try pastel shades or warm tones that feel calm but still playful. A few pops of colour on cushions or a painted window frame can add just enough energy without overwhelming the space.
What to Put Under a Cubby House in Australia?
The ground beneath a cubby matters just as much as what’s inside it. A safe, low-maintenance base helps protect little feet and keeps things tidy year-round.
Synthetic grass feels soft underfoot and blends nicely with most yards. Rubber mats offer cushioning and work well near other kids play equipment. Pavers are another sturdy option, especially for wetter spots where you want better drainage and less mess.
What Furniture Fits Best in a Kids Cubby?
A well-furnished cubby helps little ones move between quiet time and energetic play with ease. Choosing furniture that suits small spaces and growing imaginations makes a big difference.
Here are a few must-haves:
- Child-sized table and chairs for snacks, drawing, or pretend tea parties.
- Bookshelf to hold picture books, puzzles, and craft supplies.
- Reading nook with cushions or a floor mat for quiet moments.
- Storage tubs that slide under seats to keep the mess tucked away.
- Rack for dress-ups to keep costumes in reach during pretend play.
We offer stylish, practical pieces that suit Australian homes and small footprints.
Easy Ways to Add Warmth to a Cubby House
Kids naturally gravitate to spaces that feel cosy and familiar. A few thoughtful touches can turn even the simplest setup into a space they won’t want to leave.
Try these easy ways to warm things up:
- Add a soft rug and floor cushions for comfy sitting spots.
- Hang buntings across the ceiling or doorway for a cheerful touch.
- Place a door mat at the entrance to keep dirt outside.
- Include a play kitchen or veggie crate set to encourage homely pretend play.
- Use light curtains or fairy lights to soften the space and add charm.
What to Add Outside a Cubby for Extra Fun?
The space around a cubby can be just as exciting as what’s inside. Adding outdoor touches helps extend the play area and brings more variety to how your child engages with the space.
These small additions can make the outdoor play area just as engaging as the cubby itself:
- Set up a sandpit nearby for digging, scooping and sensory fun.
- Use potted plants or small veggie beds to introduce a bit of nature.
- Add a mailbox for pretend post or special deliveries.
- Hang a chalkboard on the exterior wall for drawing or cubby rules.
- Create a path or outdoor café zone using child-safe furniture and props.
Seasonal Updates for Cubby House Fun
Switching up the decor now and then keeps things interesting for your tot. Seasonal updates are a fun way to celebrate special occasions and make the cubby feel new again.
In summer, lightweight bunting and beach-themed toys add a breezy touch. Spring might call for fresh flowers and pops of colour, while autumn works well with leafy garlands and cosy throws.
Families in Melbourne, Sydney, and across Australia can also decorate for Christmas, Halloween, or even local footy finals to keep the play space part of the celebration.
Helping Your Little One Make the Cubby Their Own
Giving kids a say in how their cubby looks makes it feel truly theirs. From name plaques on the door to drawings pinned inside, these small touches help them take pride in their space.
Let your tot choose a few accessories, like a favourite rug or a toy kitchen that matches their pretend play style. Add their artwork to the walls or pick a colour together for the curtains.
For more ways to personalise, browse our full range of wall art, pillows, clocks, and more at HipKids.
