Many people look forward to spending time in their gardens, enjoying the pleasant weather and full comfort of their outdoor living space. A recent study revealed that 70% of British homeowners spent at least two hours a week in their garden. However, you may be put off by the prospect of nosy neighbours, whether real or imagined. The good news is that privacy can be readily improved; and this article highlights the best ways to do just that.
- Get a fence replacement
Investing in a fence is the most popular way to increase privacy in your outdoor space. For some, this means replacing outdated wire fences with more durable options, while others may want to raise theirs. However, using the latter technique may provoke disagreements. Discussing this path with your neighbour next door is always advised, so keep this in mind.
- Trellises
Trellises are an excellent method to add and improve privacy in your garden, either as a border or to create an enclosed area inside it. The nature of a slatted trellis panel and its construction enables a certain amount of light to pass through while concealing others’ sightlines sufficiently to make you feel safe. They also look great when carefully maintained.
- Consider garden screening options
Aside from the fence, various garden screening alternatives may offer elegance and seclusion to your outdoor space. Screening rolls made of bamboo, reed or rattan make excellent privacy solutions and can also be used to conceal broken or deteriorating fence panels. Likewise, many companies also provide acoustic fence systems, which may assist in filtering out sounds while protecting your living outdoor space from others.
- A pergola will protect your garden from above
Pergolas are excellent for concealing your garden from top-floor windows in surrounding homes. Pergolas are also an excellent alternative to fences taller than the typical two metres allowed under authorised development, as they can be three metres if situated more than two metres from a boundary. Additional side screening can be installed between pergola posts and trailing plants for increased privacy.
- Build a summer house
You may use the height of a summer house or multi-functional garden building to your advantage, so feel free to consider this. If it is within two metres of a border, a summer home can be built to a height of 2.5 metres and perhaps higher if it is farther away. You will also have an additional place to enjoy, which may raise the value of your home. However, before erecting a garden outbuilding, always check with your local planning authority to confirm that no approval is necessary.
- Grow trees and hedges
Planting trees and hedges in your garden may provide a natural barrier and privacy. Evergreen trees such as yew, laurel, or holly cover year-round, while deciduous trees such as birch or hornbeam provide seasonal privacy. Privet, boxwood and beech hedges may be cut into shapes to produce a clean and appealing border. Consider utilising accessories such as stakes and ties to help your trees and hedges thrive.