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Design 101
Deck Privacy Ideas: 10 Ways to Make Your Decks and Patios More Private
A deck or patio is an outdoor extension of your home's private interior. You want your space to feel comfortable, relaxed, and private when you're outside. How do you put your deck privacy ideas into place quickly and efficiently?
A privacy fence or wall is certainly an option. It may be as simple as using tall plants and installing a screen or trellis. Or simply rearranging your patio furniture to create a more private enclosure. Check out 10 methods for creating a calm, secluded oasis on your deck or patio.
1. Install Privacy Screens
The most immediate fix for an exposed patio or deck area is a privacy screen. These folding screens are crafted from a wide variety of materials such as metal, wood, fabric, and rattan. This diversity makes them perfect for complementing other outdoor decor such as lounge chairs, outdoor rugs, or your home itself.
Move the screen around to find the best placement for sectioning off a secluded area for drinking coffee, entertaining, or playing with the kids. Before purchasing your screen, take into account the size of the space and the aesthetic you're trying to create. For example, you could choose a three-panel farmhouse-inspired screen with a rustic vibe. Or you could opt for a six-panel wicker partition that matches your deck chairs.
2. Incorporate Lattice Panels With Climbing Plants
If the idea of privacy screens appeals to you but you want to bring more nature to your patio or deck, install a lattice panel interwoven with climbing plants for a natural, aesthetically pleasing barrier. Ideal foliage include morning glories, clematis, or climbing hydrangeas. Some plants grow quickly while others take a few years to produce the desired effect. If you're hoping for privacy, you may want to opt for a fast-growing variety.
3. Add Outdoor Curtains or Drapes
If you prefer total privacy on your deck or patio, add curtains or drapes to lend a touch of elegance to the space. If you have a covered patio, it's easy to attach rods for outdoor curtains to enclose the area for privacy. If the patio or deck is uncovered, hanging drapes is a bit trickier — but not impossible. Hang curtains from an existing structure like an elegant pergola. Make sure to choose weather-resistant curtains and a rod that allows you to draw or retract the curtains when needed.
4. Utilize Tall Planters and Greenery
If you're not comfortable installing curtains on your property, an excellent alternative is to use tall planters filled with lush greenery to create a natural privacy screen for your deck or patio. This approach not only enhances privacy but also adds a touch of beauty and tranquility to your outdoor space. Consider selecting plants that thrive in containers, such as bamboo, ornamental grasses, or dense shrubs, to ensure they remain healthy and vibrant throughout the seasons. With the right combination of greenery, you can enjoy a more secluded and aesthetically pleasing outdoor retreat.
5. Build a Pergola or Gazebo
Building a pergola or gazebo for your outdoor space can be a considerable investment, but it's a worthwhile one for privacy. These intricate outdoor oases are perfect spaces for gatherings, reading, or watching a sunset. Structures like these can define an area of your deck or patio, provide vertical growing areas for vines and climbing plants, and provide a secure foundation for curtains or drapes.
It's important to make sure freestanding structures are anchored to the ground in areas with frequent storms or strong winds.
6. Erect a Trellis
A trellis is a structure that supports growing flowers, vegetable plants, or vines. A lattice, like a trellis, is decorative and used for privacy. But a trellis may be more substantial if you need privacy and are growing plants that need more support.
Trellises can be perfect for smaller decks and patios as they can support vertical gardens. They're also great at sectioning off an area of your outdoor space or simply enhancing it with greenery.
7. Install a Fence or Wall
If you just can't find the right arrangement of tall plants or you don't have the space for curtains, install a fence or wall to create a solid, fixed barrier against prying eyes. These structures give you a permanent privacy solution that’s not going to change over time (like plants would).
When built around the perimeter of your property, a wooden privacy fence boasts the added benefit of security. Experts recommend building a fence or wall with materials that complement your home's exterior and your existing outdoor decor.
8. Use Outdoor Rugs and Furniture Arrangement
An awkward furniture setup could make your deck or patio seem more public than it should. Use an outdoor rug as a centerpiece and arrange your outdoor sofa, chaise, or chairs around it so that they are facing each other. This small step can go a long way to creating an intimate space that feels private — even in an open area.
You can use a mixture of privacy screens, potted plants, and cozy furniture arrangements to give your outdoor space even more privacy.
9. Incorporate Water Features
If you're thinking of moving beyond architectural structures such as pergolas and trellises, consider using a water feature such as a fountain or waterfall. These pieces add a sensory element to your outdoor experience, and they can also mask external noises. This adds to the feeling of seclusion in your very own outdoor oasis.
10. Add a Canopy or Awning
If your uncovered patio or deck gets a lot of direct sunlight, install a canopy, awning, or strategically placed outdoor umbrella to add protection from the elements and create a shady, secluded space. For those who live in a condo or apartment building, this outdoor privacy tip offer a partition from above.
Enjoy Your Private Outdoor Haven
Patio privacy solutions may be easier to attain than you think. Check out our outdoor collections for indoor and outdoor furniture and accessories for any style and budget.
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