5 Landscaping Ideas for Creating Privacy in Your Yard
Lounging in your backyard, having a fire with friends, tanning in the sun… your yard should be an oasis for you to relax and enjoy! However, that can be difficult when there isn’t a barrier between you and your neighbors, especially if they’re the nosey kind. While you’re out there trying to enjoy a little slice of nature, you’re constantly weary of who might be watching. Living in a fishbowl isn’t fun, so we’ve compiled some privacy landscaping ideas for your backyard.
What Can I Use to Create Privacy in My Backyard?
Backyards come in all shapes and sizes, and there are a variety of features you can install for your enjoyment. But to enjoy them without the watchful eye of your neighbors or their house guests, you’ll want to install a barrier around your yard — or around the part that you want most private. Here are some landscaping ideas that will provide you with that privacy you’ve been waiting for:
Fences
The most obvious option is a fence. Fences can be aesthetically pleasing as they come in all different styles, heights, and colors. Just be sure to check building codes regarding fence heights and make sure you know where your property line lies. Since fences take up less space than other landscaping options, they can be a fantastic option for someone with a small yard or limited space.
Hedges
Hedges are another common option and one of the best choices for privacy! The greenery is gorgeous and stays full year round while simultaneously blocking your peeping neighbors from the view of your yard. These provide the same amount of coverage as a fence and can be just as tall if not taller, but they also look more natural and less manmade. A downside of hedges, however, is that you need to be sure to prune them regularly in order to maintain their shape.
Layered Greenery and Flora
Something people don’t usually consider as a privacy option is planting a multilayered divider made up of different trees, perennials, shrubs, and bushes. When it is used, this method of layering can look fantastic. It is one of the most beautiful privacy options you can choose, and you can customize the plants you pick so that no two yards look the same! Don’t be like all your neighbors, stand out with a layered privacy barrier. The downside with this one is that these take up more space as it does require a few feet in order to create enough layers to block out the neighbors.
Stone or Masonry Walls
Walls are another option for adding some privacy to your backyard. With all of the different styles, you can customize a wall that fits perfectly with your desired aesthetic. You can even match your fire pit! Walls tend to look more charming than fences do, but they can provide the same level of coverage. Given the strength of their materials, they also provide more security than a fence or plants do. Plus, they’re low maintenance.
Pergolas
If you’re looking to add some privacy, but don’t want to add a barrier around your entire yard, a pergola or singular deck wall may be great choices for you. Pergolas are small defined areas that are often used for relaxing. The enclosures can create the intimate feeling of indoors while still allowing you to experience the beautiful weather and Mother Nature outside. They are marvelous for adding vines, lights, or hanging baskets, creating a welcoming and delightful area to enjoy with your loved ones. These typically provide less cover than some of the other options above, but depending on your situation, they could be the perfect solution to your privacy problem!
How Do I Install My Privacy Area?
If you’re looking to create more privacy in your backyard, contact us at Nealon Landscape Services for a free quote! We’re well versed in both landscape design and installation, and we can add any elements you need to enhance your yard! With over 40 years of experience, we can also advise you on what options may be best for your specific situation — depending on your drainage options, climate, and maintenance desires. We’ll work with you to bring your vision to life and give you the privacy you’ve been missing.
