Lots of outdoor living areas are designed by homeowners who are looking for a little privacy while they enjoy the outdoors. Whether your neighbors are right on top of you, or if you live out in the wilderness, a private area is always an enjoyable addition.
Here is a list of six ideas to provide you and your outdoor living space with some privacy:
- The Perennial Screen
Take a bunch of potted plants, stack them high, and what do you get? A beautiful wall of foliage that can be colorful and diverse depending on your choice of plants. Another popular choice is to fill those pots with veggies and spices that provide intoxicating scents and a uniquely raised garden. - Transforming your Fenced Area
Some outdoor living areas are nestled close to fencing that separates you from your neighbor. And while bare fencing can be constructed in a beautiful fashion, planting a lush hedge can provide you with that extra buffer you are looking for that adds a layer of separation. - Ivy Fencing
Say you are not looking to plant a hedge, or already have some low growing plants in between the patio and fence. If your fence is more of an eyesore than a modern marvel, ivy is a good alternative that will spread along your fence and provide a greener more natural looking barrier. - Corner Lot Issues
So you live on a corner lot and the foliage you’ve planted doesn’t offer you the privacy you’re looking for. Plus, you don’t want to deal with the hassle of plants growing on or over the sidewalk in an intrusive manner. In this case, taller fencing is probably your best bet. And if you’re looking to add a bit of artistic flare, a lattice overlay at the entrance is always a decorative touch. - The Shutter Solution
If you have an outdoor living area with some type of framing, such as a pergola, hanging shutters provide some visual privacy from those passing by. Out of sight out of mind is always a good approach and hanging shutters are an affordable solution for such instances. - Planting Area Buffer Zones
You walk out onto your back patio and into your neighbors front lawn. In some neighborhoods, this is the case, you share a property and a fence is not an option. But don’t worry. A planting area acts as a buffer zone and a drainage area that blocks the view of your neighbor’s front door. Build a mound with soil, plant some trees and shrubs, and lay down some bark and you’ve got a plant island and privacy barrier.