Garden Screening Options - Using Structures for Privacy

Modern privacy screening designed for this bespoke garden pergola

Modern slatted timber screening designed to hide the garden shed.

Increasingly often I’m being contacted by home owners who are overlooked by neighbours and would like more privacy.  I find that new build homes are often overlooked from all sides and can have as many as 5 neighboring properties having a clear view into the garden and through windows.
There are several options i recommend for screening in such circumstances. The style of the garden, level of maintenance required and the budget are all things i take into account when selecting the right option for a garden design plan.
Contemporary slatted screening:  A form of screening i’m using in a lot of gardens currently to give a modern sleek look. It can effectively screen unsightly buildings and shed, add height to boundaries and it can be used within the garden space to create zones. Depending on budget, there are several timber options to choose from – treated soft wood right through to beautiful hardwoods.
Bespoke timber screening:  Where height is required, free-standing timber screens can be erected. Using sturdy posts, bespoke trellis work can be designed and attached to give a screen above existing fencing....

...The trellis work will allow some air flow so that buffeting winds do not cause the posts to move. Climbers can be encouraged to climb up to the trellis and give further screening as well as colour and interest.​​
Timber fencing and trellis: These typical low screening options which most of us have in the garden to surround our property provide screening from 3-6ft high and can be topped with additional trellis to give another 12-18 inches of height.  ‘Off the shelf’ fencing/trellis is a cheap option and is relatively straight forward to erect.
Pergolas:  If adding height to the boundaries is not an option, then erecting a structure such as a pergola can offer privacy within the garden itself. Clothed with climbers or with a suspended sail cloth, these will offer a secluded spot to sit and some shade from the summer sun. ​

For more inspiration see my future article on Creating Privacy and Screening using Planting in the Screening and Privacy category. 

If you would like help creating privacy within your garden or you are in need of garden design and planting advice i’d be happy to help. I offer a bespoke service from consultations through to full design packages. Take a look at my website for more details www.belgrierson.co.uk  Give me a ring on 07506 750250 or Message me.

Author: Bel Grierson

Expert Plantswoman and Garden Designer with 20 years experience in horticulture.  Bel loves to share her knowledge and enthusiasm with those with gardens large and small.

Categories

All
Front Garden Ideas
Garden Care Advice
Garden Design Ideas
Gardening Tips
Garden Styling
Landscaping Ideas
Low Maintenance Gardening
Planting Design
Planting Up Pots For Summer
Screening & Privacy
Wildlife Gardens