Kids Cubby : 22/08/2020

A few years ago when our children were younger and we were living in a house with a garden big enough to accommodate a Hills Hoist and a trampoline Graeme decided to build a cubby.

What began as a simple idea for a temporary wooden structure that could keep the kids entertained became a labour of love over several months.

The cubby was positioned in the corner of the garden to take advantage of shade in summer and a leafy outlook. To deal with very hot Melbourne days large double doors, along with hinged windows, were added for ventilation purposes and to create pleasant cross breezes. The kids spent hours opening and closing these to transform the cubby from a private enclosed space to indoor/outdoor living area, shop, restaurant….the list goes on….

Circular cut out ‘peep holes’ were peppered throughout the structure offering views of the surrounding garden space.

Inside, an elevated platform accessed by a small ladder was used as a hidey hole, reading nook or snoozing spot. The floor was carpeted with lush artificial grass creating a soft landing for little tumbles.

A small timber deck extending at the front was perfect for afternoon tea parties, impromptu theatrical performances and play dates with friends. Graeme and I even spent a few balmy nights perched on the deck, beer and wine in hand.

The cubby was constructed using ply, timber and Perspex, and designed in sections that could be unbolted and flat packed for storage. Jockey wheels attached to the base enabled the structure to be moved around the garden when needed….the kids own little caravan!