Summer is in full swing, and the backyard is the ideal spot to read, swim, sip a cocktail or spend quality time with friends. The catch: the suspicion of being watched by neighbours with an open view to your backyard.
For some, the mere idea that other people might be able to keep tabs on what they do outside is unsettling. Is this the case for you? To remedy this problem, you can integrate different privacy landscaping components into your yard that will protect you from prying eyers. You can then feel more at ease on your property.
Chairs With Extra Tall Backrests
When shopping for outdoor furniture, pay attention to the back height of benches, chairs, and hammocks. Some models are tall enough to shield occupants from view. You can also build your own privacy seating, such as wood benches with extra high backrests. Hanging chairs are an equally good option if you want the comfort of a protective cocoon.
Wood or Metal Panels
A wide range of privacy panels are available in stores. Those made of black metal are well suited for contemporary-style landscaping, while wood models look good in any decor, whether it be rustic, modern or classic. If you want a more zen-like space, such as a Scandinavian ambiance, opt for bamboo panels.
Semi-Sheer Curtains
While pergolas can be fitted with opaque curtains or mosquito-type netting that conceals the occupants, this doesn’t always look great. Instead, hang white or black semi-sheer curtains that let sunlight and summer breezes through. You can likewise reproduce this set-up elsewhere in your backyard, for example, by erecting a low wall of curtains around your outdoor dining table to screen the area from your next-door neighbour.
A Plant Barrier
Plants and flowers are highly prized in the backyard for the colour and life they bring to the space. But that’s not the only thing they can do for you! Use them to block the view inside your yard. This barrier can be a cedar hedge, a green wall, a wood panel on which vines are allowed to climb or a neat row of potted shrubs.
Expandable Green Lattice
Over the past few years, many people have opted for expandable green lattices which can be lengthened or widened as needed. Use them to close up an openwork fence, to fill out a thin hedge or to erect a low wall. They are the instant backyard privacy solution!
Artificial Green Wall
Some artificial lawn models imitate the colour of natural grass surprisingly well. And since they look great laid out on your patio surface, why not hang them vertically over an inexpensive low openwork fence purchased at a big-box store. The result will be both chic and vibrant.
Stone Walls
While this is the most expensive option, it is the most stylish! A natural stone wall will not only give your backyard the level of privacy you want, it will also create an eye-catching landscaping feature. Plus, if you decide to erect a more massive wall, you will be able to include soundproofing.
Shades Cloths
It was about five years ago that sail shades took the landscaping market by storm. Usually in the shape of a triangle, they are installed above the area to be covered, mounted onto posts, for example, or onto the home’s structure. They shield the backyard from those with an overhead view, such as neighbours that could look in from a second-storey window.
Thanks to all these ideas, you can easily enjoy your backyard to the full without having to worry about being spied on! Of course, the property need not be closed off completely. A few simple structures placed in strategic zone (eating area, reading nook, poolside, etc.) are quite sufficient to create the sense of privacy you desire.