As the summer months approach, many people look forward to spending time in their gardens, enjoying the warm weather and outdoor living. However, finding privacy in your garden can be a challenge, especially if you live in a densely populated area. In this blog post, we will explore 10 ways to create privacy in your garden so that you can enjoy your outdoor space without feeling overlooked. Plus, we’ll be sharing some of our favourite products to help you achieve the perfect private haven.
1. Maximise Your Fence Height
The first step to creating privacy in your garden is to maximise the height of your side fence. Fencing is an excellent option for screening your garden, and in the UK, you can have a fence up to two metres in height without planning permission. If you want to add trellis to the top, this will be included in that maximum permitted development height.
One popular fencing option is wooden fence panels which are both attractive and functional. Don’t forget to check out our blog post on 9 fence topper ideas for privacy, style, and security for more inspiration.
2. Consider Garden Screening Options
Aside from fencing, there are several other garden screening options that can add a touch of style to your outdoor space as well as privacy. Screening rolls made from materials like bamboo, reed, or rattan make great privacy screens and can also help to disguise damaged or degrading fence panels.
Consider investing in a garden screening roll to add an extra layer of privacy to your garden. Many companies also offer acoustic fencing solutions, which can help to block out noise as well as protect from overlooking.
3. Shield Your Garden from Above with a Pergola
Pergolas are an excellent solution for screening your garden from top-floor windows in neighbouring properties. A pergola can be as high as three metres if placed more than two metres from a boundary. Adding a pergola to your garden not only provides privacy but also creates a shaded area to enjoy on a hot day.
4. Add an Awning or Parasol
For moveable privacy, a parasol can help to protect different areas of your garden from overlooking. A more permanent solution, however, would be an awning attached to the rear of your property. An awning not only adds excellent privacy but will also provide you with a shaded area to enjoy on a hot day.
5. Construct a Summer House
By adding a summer house or multi-functional garden building, you can use its height to your advantage when it comes to overlooking. A summer house can be built to a height of 2.5 metres if it’s within two metres of a boundary and potentially higher if further away. As well as the increase in privacy from the building’s height, you’ll have an additional space to enjoy that could also add value to your property
6. Grow Climbing Plants
Climbing plants such as ivy, clematis, and jasmine are a beautiful and natural way to add privacy to your garden. These plants can be grown on trellises, fences, or walls to create a living screen that provides year-round privacy. In addition, they can enhance the appearance of your garden while attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Check out these climbing plant supports to help your climbing plants thrive and create a stunning natural privacy screen.
7. Plant Trees and Hedges
Planting trees and hedges can provide an excellent natural barrier and create privacy in your garden. For example, evergreen trees such as yew, laurel, or holly offer year-round coverage, while deciduous trees like birch or hornbeam provide seasonal privacy. Hedges, such as privet, boxwood, or beech, can be clipped into shape and create a neat and attractive border.
To help your trees and hedges grow, consider using tree and hedge planting accessories, such as stakes and ties.
8. Use Raised Beds and Planters
Raised beds and planters can create privacy in your garden by adding height and structure to your planting areas. By planting taller plants or shrubs in raised beds, you can create an attractive and natural screen that shields your garden from prying eyes.
Invest in some raised beds and planters to elevate your garden’s style and privacy.
9. Install a Garden Wall
A garden wall can provide an attractive and sturdy privacy solution. Brick walls are a popular choice, as they can be built to various heights and styles to suit your preferences. Additionally, a garden wall can be combined with fencing, trellises, or climbing plants to create a multi-layered privacy screen.
10. Add a Water Feature
While a water feature might not directly create privacy, the sound of running water can help to mask conversations and create a sense of seclusion. This can be particularly beneficial if you live in a noisy area or want to create a peaceful atmosphere in your garden.
Consider incorporating a water feature into your garden design for added tranquillity and privacy.
In conclusion, there are numerous ways to create privacy in your garden, from planting trees and hedges to installing fencing or a pergola. By combining several of these ideas, you can create a multi-layered approach to privacy that will help you enjoy your outdoor space in peace and seclusion.
