Our gardens and outdoor areas are a refuge from the rest of the world, but sometimes, we can’t escape our nosy neighbours.
There are some simple and economical ways to create a sense of privacy, such as using bamboo in pots or investing in walls, pergolas, and fences, the latter being the most popular choice for Garden Screening.
Here are 15 great garden screening ideas to help you build your own private paradise. From bamboo in pots to long-term investments like walls, pergolas, and fences, you’ll find the perfect solution to create a secluded spot of your own.
Table of Contents
Garden screening idea 1: Standard fencing
Fencing is ideal for those who want to add a sense of privacy to their gardens. It’s affordable and can be easily painted to match the latest trends.
There is a wide range of fencing styles, from basic overlap fencing made of rough-hewn timber strips that overlap each other to modern horizontal cedar slats. No matter which style you choose, you can be sure of a great-looking garden privacy screen.
Garden screening idea 2: Modular fencing
Modular fencing is an attractive and modern garden screening idea. It is durable and won’t fade in the sun, making it an affordable choice. It’s also a much quicker project than building a wall.
Someone with basic DIY skills can put up modular fencing and even take it down and move it if they move house.
Garden screening idea 3: Acoustic fencing
If you want to keep unwanted noise out, acoustic fencing will help dampen the sound of traffic and loud music from neighbours.
Garden screening idea 4: Screens
A screen, rather than a fence, makes a fashion statement, particularly when used in a smaller garden. Garden screen panels can be cut out with a pattern or, more simply, solid with a motif, usually in one corner.
The aim is usually to soften the view rather than block it out completely, but you can have plants growing up the screen to give extra privacy.
Garden screening idea 5: Screening rolls
Another option is screening rolls, such as those made of bamboo, reed, rattan and willow. Not only do they provide a practical way to create privacy, they can also be used to disguise existing walls and fencing.
These rolls can be easily attached to garden fences, stone walls, arbours, pergolas and other areas, using galvanised wire, cable ties, screws or nails.
Primrose is an online garden centre that has a great selection of garden screening rolls, with a range of natural and artificial options.
Garden screening idea 6: Planting
Plants are an excellent way to screen a garden; there’s more to creating privacy than just a line of tall conifers. Hedges, shrubs, and climbers are great for adding a sense of security to a garden.
Different varieties grow to various heights, which you can prune and shape to your liking. Just make sure it doesn’t block out all sunlight.
Garden screening idea 7: Trellis
Trellis is a simple and cost-effective way of increasing the height of an existing fence. It can be stained or painted, and if desired, a climber can be grown up it. Expanding Wood Trellis is affordable, costing just £2.50 for a 180cm x 30cm panel.
Garden screening idea 8: Pergola
A pergola can come in two varieties: ‘single’, such as this affordable one from vidaXL, perfect for adding height and training vines; or ‘double’, with two sides creating a shelter or walkway, like this sturdy timber kit, costing £141.99.
Garden screening idea 9: Living wall
You can draw attention away from an adjacent garden and make your own more interesting with a living wall. If you’re trying to save money, however, the artificial option is cheaper and requires less upkeep.
IKEA offers the Fejka artificial panels for just £3 each, while garden centres provide a selection of living wall kits.
Garden screening idea 10: Awning, sail or parasol
An awning, sail, or large parasol can be a great way to maintain privacy in gardens overlooked from above or the side. In the summertime, they offer shelter from the sun and rain.
Shade sails and cantilever parasols provide the ultimate in flexibility. Depending on your privacy needs, you can easily move them around the garden.
Garden screening idea 11: Walling
A wall is a strong, long-lasting structure made of natural or reconstituted stone or brick. It offers privacy and shields outdoor areas from the elements. Pick materials that suit the style and era of your house.
Try to source recycled bricks or stone wherever possible, as this is more environmentally friendly than brand-new materials.
Garden screening idea 12: Glass partitions
If you want to maximise natural light while maintaining your privacy, you may want to consider investing in sand-blasted glass partition panels.
Starting at £850 per linear metre for a 1.8m high, cantilevered partition – fixed only at the base for added flexibility – plus fitting, this option is certainly an investment.
Garden screening idea 13: Garden buildings
Adding a garden structure such as a summer house or home office to your outdoor area is a great way to gain extra living or leisure space and privacy.
Without planning permission, you can have a structure up to 2.5m high within two metres of a boundary. This makes it a great multi-functional solution for your garden.
Garden screening idea 14: Sunken Seating Area
There are likely to be regulations on the maximum height of your fence. However, if you dig down to create a lower level in your garden, you can maximise your privacy.
Landscaping your garden to meet your needs is a smart move. If you can’t lower the ground, use low garden furniture to create a cosy space and block out any onlookers.
Garden screening idea 15: Garden Shelter
Position your garden shelter strategically to ensure the best level of privacy. It should be surrounded on three sides and have a roof for optimal seclusion. This way, you can enjoy your own private seating area.
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