[1] Players can use the menu interface to select building elements, including blocks, rooftops, chimneys, doors, windows, decorative features, trees and shrubs, and place them into the world.

[12] Jenni Lada of Siliconera also felt the game was a "zen" and passive experience that encouraged players "to live in the moment".

[3] Describing Summerhouse as a "stunning game to look at", Kieron Verbrugge of Press Start commended the "picturesque" environments and "enchanting" backdrops.

Thomas Kent of Hardcore Gamer felt that the lack of objectives could leave players feeling "aimless" and was "too open-ended".

[10] Jenni Lada of Siliconera expressed the desire for greater customisation options and tools, such as resizing elements.