If you’re looking to add instant street appeal, this DIY house number with a flower box and solar light is the perfect solution. When my daughter moved into her new home, she had two requests: a house number she could see at night, and a decorative flower box. The catch? She doesn’t like gardening, so faux succulents were a must! This simple yet stunning project combines functionality and charm with zero maintenance required. Keep reading to learn how to make a solar house number sign with a built-in flower box—perfect for gifting or personalising your home’s entrance.

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DIY House Number with Flower Box and Solar Light

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Materials Needed

• 48cm x 48cm plywood board
• Timber offcuts for flower box (18cm x 8cm x 2 pieces, scrap for front)
• 4 pieces of 50cm x 5cm wood for the frame
• Dark mahogany wood stain
• Exterior wood varnish
• Wood glue
• Nail gun (optional but helpful)
• Drop saw or hand saw
• Corner clamp
• Solar light
• Silicone adhesive
• Styrofoam packaging
• Faux succulents
• House numbers
• Drill with a small bit

Building the Wooden House Number Sign

Start by cutting a 48cm square from plywood. This will be the backing board for the sign. Use any wood you have available—plywood works great for outdoor projects if sealed properly.

To make the flower box, cut two pieces of wood at 18cm long x 8cm deep. Trim one side of each board to a 45-degree angle so they join neatly. Apply wood glue to the angled ends, clamp them together with a corner clamp, and secure with a nail gun.

Use another piece of scrap wood to form the front of the flower box. Hold it in place, trace along the edge, and cut along the pencil line. Make sure it sits flush on the outside of the frame.

Glue all pieces together to form the box and reinforce with nails. Once dry, stain the plywood base with dark mahogany stain. This step is easier before attaching the box.

Position the flower box at the bottom of the board and glue it in place.

Add nails for extra strength. Avoid screws as plywood tends to split easily.

Adding the Frame to the Base

The wall this sign would hang on was dark brick, so I added a light wood frame to create contrast. Cut four pieces of wood to 50cm long. I overlapped the ends instead of mitring for simplicity. Glue and nail the frame around the edge of the base. It gives the sign a neat, finished look and helps it stand out on the wall.

Sealing for Outdoor Use

Since the sign will be outdoors, seal the front and back with two coats of exterior varnish. Let each coat dry completely before adding the next.

Creating the Faux Succulent Planter

To hold the faux plants, cut a piece of Styrofoam to fit snugly inside the flower box. Make it slightly oversized so it’s a tight fit.

Use silicone sealer around the edges to prevent water from seeping into the wood. Even though this is a faux plant box, rain could still cause issues.

Use a screwdriver to poke small holes in the Styrofoam, then insert your fake succulents. Add a little silicone to hold them in place.

Drill two small holes in the back of the box to allow any water to escape, just in case moisture gets in.

Attaching the House Numbers and Solar Light

Use silicone adhesive to attach the house numbers to the sign. Choose a bold, modern font for easy visibility from the street.

Attach the solar light above the numbers using two screws. Many garden lights are designed to slip over screws for easy mounting. Choose a light with a built-in sensor so it turns on automatically at night.

The artificial ivy can be pinned around the frame if you choose.

Your House Number Sign Is Ready to Hang

This simple house number sign not only looks great but is also practical and maintenance-free. The solar light ensures it’s visible at night, and the faux succulents give it a decorative touch without the need for watering.

DIY House number ideas

Over the years, I’ve created a few different house number signs using various techniques and styles. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out these creative DIY projects:

This house number was created using the Shou Sugi Ban technique, where the wood is burnt and then sanded to reveal a textured surface. By applying just one colour of stain over the charred wood, a stunning range of tones and highlights emerged naturally, giving the piece depth and character.”

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