Backyard privacy ideas to add style & comfort

If you're in need of backyard privacy ideas, it's time to think beyond the fence. There are plenty of creative ways to make your backyard more private, from hanging curtains to living walls and everything in between. To help you create privacy in your outdoor space, here are some tips to guide you:

Add greenery to a trellis

One thing to keep in mind is that you don't need a solid surface to create privacy. As long as you provide enough of a barrier for comfort, you can use a wide variety of lattice or openwork surfaces.

Try a trellis with your favorite climbing plants. Some excellent options include honeysuckle, clematis and jasmine. You'll have more privacy, and the sweet scent of flowers as a bonus.

Work with your yard's boundaries

You can enhance the existing boundaries of your yard with the right foliage. Choose the best tree varieties for the amount of sun and type of soil in your backyard. 

Opt for plants that create a light, protective layer along the borders but still allow some sunlight will help the rest of your garden thrive.

Elevate your style

A multi-level backyard is a bold yet functional style choice with plenty of potential for creating privacy. Combine raised beds, tall shrubs and hanging baskets to keep the neighbor's view at the top of your shrubbery and out of your yard. Finish your private retreat with a sunken living room-style sitting area complete with luxurious lounge chairs.

Go modern

Corrugated metal is an innovative fencing option that adds a modern, industrial vibe to any yard. Not only can a metal privacy fence provide protection, it also adds bold texture to common yard palettes of stones, gravel or cement.

Simple to install, corrugated metal fences are a budget-friendly privacy solution and can be customized to your desired height. When combined with a minimalist landscape, this type of fence can enhance your entire yard design.

DIY a free-standing screen

Consider building your own free-standing screen for double duty privacy and flexibility. With a free-standing screen, you can adjust the angle to meet your needs or provide perfect sun protection.

You can craft a privacy screen from a variety of materials including old doors, window frames, palettes and other recycled wood. With a little DIY ingenuity, you can create a custom privacy screen that doubles as a living wall or even a projection surface for an outdoor movie night.

Whether you opt for a simple trellis or an entire outdoor room-style sanctuary, these ideas should help you get started on creating more privacy in your backyard.