The Weekender Playhouse Plan

Escape into a backyard retreat with the Weekender Playhouse Plan, a classic A‑frame two‑story build that captures the feel of a cozy vacation cabin. With approximately 430 square feet of interior space, a front balcony perfect for lounging or lookout spots, and a rear slide exit, this playhouse offers both comfort and adventure in a compact design. Generously paired windows bring in natural light and create a bright, airy interior that kids will love exploring.

This designer‑inspired plan encourages creative play and offers plenty of versatility. The sturdy footprint provides room for playhouse accessories like loft seating or small pretend markets. Built with straightforward instructions and wood framing ideas, the Weekender is accessible to DIY families looking to blend playtime and weekend getaways into their backyard lifestyle. It’s a beloved choice for imaginative builds that feel both adventurous and homey.

Features:

• Two story, A-frame design
• 430 ft² in usable play space
• Front porch and front facing balcony
  
• Accommodates 15 glass shed windows
  
• Rear exit allows for a 7' platform height slide
• Designed for children aged 4-12
• 74 page, step by step plan

Plan Category:

👨👩👧👦 Family Playhouse Plans

Exterior Dimensions:

• 14' Wide
• 18' Deep (w/ lower platform)
  
• 18' Tall

Glass Shed Windows:

• ( 6 ) 18" x 27"
  ( 5 ) 2' x 3'
  
• ( 4 ) 18" Octagonal
  

Framing Details:

• Joists: 2x8 - 16" O.C.
• Walls: 2x4 - 16" O.C.
• Rafters: 2x6 - 16" O.C.

Roofing Details:

• 60° gable roof pitch
  
• 525 ft² of total roof coverage. Typically, 10% should be added to the roofing material order to account for waste and overlap.

Lumber List:

Make sure to take advantage of any volume discount from your local lumber yard!

Decking:
( 13 ) 5/4” x 6” x 8'
( 1 ) 5/4” x 6” x 10'
( 13 ) 5/4” x 6” x 16'

2x2:
( 30 ) 2” x 2” x 8'

2x4:
( 26 ) 2” x 4” x 8'
( 31 ) 2” x 4” x 10'
( 45 ) 2” x 4” x 12'
( 3 ) 2” x 4” x 16'

2x6:
( 11 ) 2” x 6” x 8'
( 7 ) 2” x 6” x 10'
( 8 ) 2” x 6” x 12'
( 32 ) 2” x 6” x 16'

2x8:
( 4 ) 2” x 8” x 8'
( 22 ) 2” x 8” x 10'
( 4 ) 2” x 8” x 12'
( 13 ) 2” x 8” x 16'

2x10:
( 2 ) 2” x 10” x 12'

4x4:
( 6 ) 4” x 4” x 8'

1x4:
( 20 ) 1” x 4” x 8'

Plywood:
( 43 ) ½" Plywood Sheets
( 8 ) ¾" Plywood Sheets