Forget the Fish Bowl: Finally Get the Privacy You Want in Your Outdoor Living Space

Add privacy with landscaping.

Now that summer is officially in session, you are probably spending a lot of your time outdoors. After all, you need to take advantage of the fresh air and warm sunshine while you have it. There's just one problem: You have no privacy. From the neighbor on the right with a top-floor master bedroom deck to the other one who decided to suddenly remove his wall of trees, you sometimes feel like you are living in a fish bowl. It's time for that to stop now: Your property should be just yours to enjoy. Not sure where to begin? Keep these things in mind and you will be golden:



Functionality Counts

Of course you want something to block off your neighbors' view into your yard, but it's always a good idea to create something that offers more than one benefit. For example, you could use plants that provide delicious fruit or beautiful flowers. Put them in decorative pots, in front of a lattice screen, or in hanging pockets to achieve a variety of looks. If you don't want the upkeep that a garden entails, you could always build a stunning water feature. Not only will it provide a new level of intimacy to your space, it will also help block out the unwanted noise coming from next door.

Awnings and canopies are good choices especially if they are movable.

Design is Important

Now that you have the functionality part out of the way, it is time to make sure your new addition actually looks good. You put a lot of effort into choosing the perfect furniture and accent pieces, and you don't want to ruin the gorgeous aesthetics with a subpar fence. Luckily, you have a lot of choices. Stone walls can make a striking addition to your backyard space while eliminating any peeping toms. A fence is also a smart choice as long as it is done correctly. Consider using varying paint colors and alternating the heights of the panels, or choosing a fence with a high-end, unordinary design.

Movability Matters

Sure, some privacy barriers you are never going to want to take down, but you might want to consider making a few of them movable, especially the ones bordering your deck or provide coverage from above. For instance, a pergola or canopy can be a great option to block the view from the upper deck next door, but it can also inhibit you from enjoying a breathtaking night beneath the stars. Maybe a retractable awning would be a better option. Drapes, sliding panels, and decorative freestanding room dividers are also wise selections when you don't want to be in complete seclusion all hours of the day.

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