Create an outdoor retreat with privacy solutions like climbing vines, umbrellas, and canopies for true relaxation.
Your deck should be your outdoor oasis, and alack of privacycan throw off the whole feeling.
Turn your deck or patio into a private, relaxing retreat with these easy projects and tips.
Credit: Keller and Keller Photography Inc
However, even gardeners in the North can enjoy these fast-growing, big-leaf plants.
Grow them as houseplants and move them in and out each season, or treat them as exotic annuals.
Tropical plants needhigh humidity.
Credit: Keller and Keller Photography Inc
To increase moisture, use a humidity tray, mist the plants, or place a humidifier nearby.
Add a Wall
Aprivacy fenceis one of the most common ways to block a view.
Here, a simple fence caps off a backyard retreat, providing a perfect, secluded gathering space.
Credit: Kritsada Panichgul
Aseries of container gardenssoften the deck, making it even more inviting.
For example, smallmaples(such as Amur maple) provide bold fall colors, whilecrabapples offer springtime blooms.
Choose a fabric that adds style and function while complementing your home and landscaping.
Credit: Laurie Black
Not only will they block views, but they also help tame high winds and buffer noise.
Varieties like juniper and Japanese euonymus grow fast and respond well to pruning.
Mix and Match
Deck privacy ideas can include both store-bought and natural solutions.
Credit: Kritsada Panichgul
Tall trees surrounding the deck cloak the space in shade and block views of nearby neighbors.
An established tree, for example, helps give thedeck more privacyby creating a soft, natural canopy.
Lush plantingsaround the deckalso soften the edges and make it feel more secluded.
Credit: Bob Stefko
Plant shrubs or a hedge along the side of the deck to further block the view.
Add small shelves to your trellis for potted plants or herbs to boost greenery and privacy.
For a warm evening glow, weave instring lightsor lanterns.
Credit: Adam Albright
Place the umbrella against an existing fence or shrubbery to extend the view-blocking capabilities.
Choose curtains in a sturdy outdoor fabric that will stand up well in all types of weather.
Utilize Evergreens
Dense evergreen trees are first-rate picks for creating privacy.
Credit: David Tsay
They block any view, help filter noise, and offer a lush, green backdrop.
Beyond helping your space feel cozier, a pergola creates shade and adds interest.
Choose weather-resistant materials like cedar, pressure-treated lumber, metal, or vinyl for a long-lasting pergola.
Credit: ED GOHLICH PHOTOGRAPHY INC
Embrace Vines
Vines are the ultimate plant for providing privacy.
Here, ahearty vineforms a lush roof over this small deck.
It also provides an extra privacy “wall” as it scrambles up the support posts and pergola.
Credit: Kimberly Gavin
Solve this problem byadding an outdoor fountainor other water feature to your deck.
Even a gentle trickle of water can make a big difference in how much you enjoy your time outdoors.
Keep the water in your garden fountain moving toprevent mosquitoesfrom breeding and the area free of pests.
Credit: Erica George
Sheets of material sewn like curtains and hung from curtain rods or wire are quick and easy to assemble.
Thick fabrics provide an enclosed feeling if you’re worried about prying eyes.
Soft, airy curtains will give an elegant and romantic mood to your balcony.
Credit: Laurie Black
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Credit: Werner Straube Photography
Credit: Edward Gohlich
Credit: Edward Gohlich
Credit: GREG SCHIEDEMANN
