There is nothing better than sitting on your patio to unwind after a long day; until you look to your left and realize your neighbors are so close you can hear them breathe. You may be wondering if there is a way to make your patio space more private so you can enjoy your downtime without feeling as though you are entertaining the neighborhood.
There are many creative ways to make a patio space more private such as:
- 6-8 ft Privacy Fence
- Gazebo Kit
- Adding trees and plants
- Creating privacy screens
- Installing a sound-blocking water feature
Creating a private patio oasis is easy when combining the items listed above with your own personal flare.
A privacy fence is one of the first things people think about when wanting a more secluded backyard. We cover many several articles on different types of fences as well as how to build a fence for your backyard. This article concentrates on other things you can do to add privacy to your patio area.
To learn more about making your patio space more private so you can enjoy your outdoor time in your personal oasis away from prying ears and eyes continue reading.
Privacy – A Rare and Valuable Commodity
Let’s face it, the countryside is quickly becoming a thing of the past and so is our privacy. We are running out of room on this planet. More and more cookie-cutter sub-divisions are being built to expand upon the suburban nightmare that was once the heart of the American dream.
Cities are growing upward at an alarming rate which means even less privacy for apartment dwellers. Whether you are living in a close-knit neighborhood with limited backyard space or a busy city with an apartment balcony you need your privacy as much as the next person.
Even if you are fortunate enough to actually get along with your neighbors there are times when it is nice to simply be alone in your own space with your own thoughts knowing that you don’t have anyone ogling or listening in on what you might be saying.
To avoid feeling like you are relaxing in a fish bowl, continue reading for tips on how to make your patio space private.
Planning a Perfectly Private Patio
You want your patio space to feel as though it is an extension of your home. You want it to be an inviting place where people can relax and forget the outside world for a little while.
You may think a private patio is impossible to obtain if you live in a close suburban neighborhood or an apartment with very little outdoor space or perhaps only a balcony.
Regardless of how much space you have, the following list will give you the inspiration you need to create a private patio space where you can let your stress melt away.
Block the Second Story Peepers
If you have neighbors with a view of your patio from the second story and wish to resolve that issue there are multiple avenues you can take such as:
- Build a pergola; pergolas help to add privacy while still allowing light to come through. To increase your pergola’s privacy grow a vined plant that will quickly cover the entire structure to make you feel as though you are in a secret garden.
- Install an awning or buy a gazebo kit that has privacy screens on all four sides can be a less expensive alternative to building a pergola and still provide the privacy you are looking for.
- Invest in a patio set with an oversized umbrella. Then cover the umbrella with mosquito netting or some other material sheer or otherwise depending upon your preference. You will create an intimate gazebo-like space that can be as open or private as you choose.
Creating Privacy Screens With Virtually Anything
If privacy fencing is not an option where you dwell fear not because you can create privacy screens or walls with almost anything if you use a little creativity. The options are truly only limited to your imagination. Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box.
Sometimes the most random, unusual, or unwanted item can turn into a beautiful privacy screen or decorative feature. The following list gives a few examples of things you can do to create a privacy screen.
- Bamboo stalks can be made into a privacy screen easily by drilling holes in the top and stringing them together with a sturdy wire or cable. Not only does this look super cool but it will last for a long time because bamboo is a very resilient material to use.
- Large canvas panels or other fabric can be attached to thin wooden frames to create custom privacy screens that can be easily moved around to suit your needs.
- For balcony dwellers, you can consider hanging curtain rods to create privacy walls. The cool thing about this is you can change your curtain material to match the season or your current mood.
- Lattice can also be used to create a more private space while still allowing light to come through. Lattice is also great for growing vined plants as it gives the runners a place to attach to more easily.
Let Mother Nature Lend a Limb
If you prefer the more natural side of things and have the space, consider planting fast-growing hedge-like trees to naturally block the view. Several varieties of shrubs can grow up to 2 feet a year giving you lots of privacy quickly.
A new and popular method of creating privacy between two spaces is a living garden wall. You can plant self-maintaining plants to create a screen of thick foliage or even install planters on the wall to grow vegetables and flowers.
This is especially helpful for gardeners who do not have a lot of outdoor space but still wish to live a natural lifestyle.
Noise-Reducers
If you are sick of your neighbors hanging on to every word you say or perhaps you wish to block out some noisy nuisances next door. Either way, this can be accomplished with the simple addition of some noise reduction devices such as:
- Outdoor speakers that play calming music or white noise
- A calming water feature to wash the stress and noise away as you relax
- A variety of wind chimes to tune out the tones of the tenants next door
Precious Privacy Made Easy With Simple Ideas
As you can see, it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg to get a little privacy. With some creativity and resourcefulness, you can have a relaxing space without the pressure of nosy neighbors. No matter the size of your space you can create a relaxing private patio for everyone to enjoy.
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