When it comes to backyard playtime, kids don't need a lot of bells and whistles. Take sandboxes, for example — tots are perfectly happy with a few basic boards nailed into a square and filled with the powdery stuff. You, on the other hand, might like something a bit more refined to elevate the look of your landscape. Check out these inventive sandbox ideas to create a kid-friendly play zone with grown-up appeal.
Globus Builder
This structure looks simple but packs in quite a bit of function. The benches on either side keep little tushes out of the sand and provide a spot for parents to perch as well, and the roof shelters kids from too much sun.
With the wooden cover on, this sandbox looks like a decorative detail. But the cover's role goes beyond beauty — it also protects the sand from cats or other animals who might treat it as a litter box, and shields it from fall leaves and spring rains.
Exteriorscapes llc
This sandbox is tucked in the shade beneath a playhouse structure that looks like a kid's own personal beach cabana. Removable grates on top of the box make it easy to sift out debris and keep out critters.
Agnes Blum
Filled with sand, a boat-shaped wooden box turns into a playspace that kindles the imagination on multiple levels.
Stout Design-Build
Here's one way to ensure a soft landing! Kids can zoom down the slide into a pit of sand that's ready and waiting for playtime.
gytis
Although its design is streamlined, this sunken sandbox is oriented along the walkway so thoughtfully that it becomes an integral part of the hardscaping.
sustainable garden design perth
A feat of green design as well as visual appeal, this trio of industrial-size water drums includes a sandy spot for teeny-tinies to enjoy.
This free-form sand pit appears to flow like water along the rocks that surround it.
Sandbox Safety Once your sand-filled setup is ready for playtime, follow these tips to keep little ones safe:
• Replace sand at least once a year. Old sand can harbor bacteria that lingers throughout the off season. • Be mindful of the sand you choose. Some varieties contain crystalline silica, a carcinogenic compound, so look for brands that are marked "silica free." River or beach sand is usually fine, and companies such as Safe Sand offer good options as well. • Have your sandbox fitted with a cover to ward off wildlife and pets and to keep sand dry during rainy days. If sand does get wet, allow it to dry completely before you replace the cover. • Aerate sand periodically with a trowel or rake to check for trash and other unwanted debris. • Always supervise sandbox playtime, especially for younger kids who might be tempted to taste the contents.
Globus Builder
This structure looks simple but packs in quite a bit of function. The benches on either side keep little tushes out of the sand and provide a spot for parents to perch as well, and the roof shelters kids from too much sun.
With the wooden cover on, this sandbox looks like a decorative detail. But the cover's role goes beyond beauty — it also protects the sand from cats or other animals who might treat it as a litter box, and shields it from fall leaves and spring rains.
Exteriorscapes llc
This sandbox is tucked in the shade beneath a playhouse structure that looks like a kid's own personal beach cabana. Removable grates on top of the box make it easy to sift out debris and keep out critters.
Agnes Blum
Filled with sand, a boat-shaped wooden box turns into a playspace that kindles the imagination on multiple levels.
Stout Design-Build
Here's one way to ensure a soft landing! Kids can zoom down the slide into a pit of sand that's ready and waiting for playtime.
gytis
Although its design is streamlined, this sunken sandbox is oriented along the walkway so thoughtfully that it becomes an integral part of the hardscaping.
sustainable garden design perth
A feat of green design as well as visual appeal, this trio of industrial-size water drums includes a sandy spot for teeny-tinies to enjoy.
This free-form sand pit appears to flow like water along the rocks that surround it.