Simple Ideas for Making Your Yard Private

If you’re lucky enough to be living in an area with a great climate, which allows you to spend time outside your home, and you’re privileged to have a nice yard in front or behind your house, you’ll understand how important it is to make the space as private as possible. Nobody likes feeling like they are on display, regardless of how great the yard is.

Even if you are protected from the elements and privy eyes, you still might be affected by noise coming from your neighbors or the traffic. It might be impossible to create a perfectly secluded and isolated spot, but there are definitely many things you can do to help you and your family have a fabulous time in your yard. Here are some ideas that should do the trick.

Potted screen

If you have green fingers and enjoy plants, potted plants might be the solution. Not only do they look great, but if you opt for tall plants, such as bamboo, fruit trees or tall grasses, you’ll be protected from nosey neighbors and passers-by. The same trick can be applied to balconies and patios.

Faux hedge

Another cheap trick, which requires almost no maintenance is to install a faux hedge, which requires no pruning, watering or waiting for the hedge to take form. There are many different sizes of panels to choose from and they also provide decent soundproofing.

Umbrellas

If there are no trees in your yard to provide shade and privacy, you might choose popular cantilever umbrellas to avoid the negative effects of sunrays. They are also great because you can move them around, which means you can pretty much protect any area in your yard. Choose the right material and color and you’ll get both the protection you need and the esthetic element will also be there.

Curtains

One of the popular trends is to install outdoor curtains, which are attached to porches, cabanas and gazebos. They protect you from the sun and provide the needed privacy. However, make sure you choose the rods that won’t rust and the fabric that can withstand the elements. When it comes to the color, opt for brighter ones, i.e. neutral if your yard is already colorful enough.

Portable tents and pavilions

Depending on the size of your yard and your budget, you can choose from a wide range of portable tents and pavilions. They are perfect for dining in those warm summer evenings, but can also allow you to spend time outdoors in the rain.

Walls

If you are the owner of the house, you could look into the option of having a permanent fence or wall. That will provide great sound insulation, apart from allowing you to feel more secure in your yard. You might use stone, bricks or wood, depending on your budget and other elements.

Climb plants on a trellis

This method requires a bit more work and patience, but it’s very decorative and effective. You’ll have to wait for the plants to grow and creep upward and you’ll need to look after them, but the trellis will provide you with instant protection and block any views instantly. Again, it’s very important to choose the material that can sustain the elements.

Investing in creating a more private and better-protected yard is always a sound investment, since it allows you to use the space just outside your home, thus extending your living space. It also allows you to add another dimension to your lifestyle, since you will have more options to entertain friends and family if you wish. Finally, the more time you spend outside, the more ready you’ll be for your office work and the fact that you have to spend countless hours in a confined space.

Guest Contributor, Diana Smith