Your backyard is one of the best places to relax on your Croton-on-Hudson, NY, property. But if your neighbours are always outside when you are, your lack of privacy could be holding you back from spending quality time out there. Consider the following landscape ideas for increased privacy so that you can get outside more.
Living Screens
Oftentimes, we want more privacy but we don’t want to feel closed in. If you feel that way, then a high wood fence probably isn’t the best solution for you. What could work well is the installation of a living screen. There are many types of evergreens that, when planted in intervals, can shield the view of a neighbor’s yard without you feeling confining. Many varieties of blooming trees can also accomplish a gentle screen while letting the sunlight and breeze through for you to enjoy.
Tall trellises with blooming vines and trailing roses can sit like soldiers on the property edge, creating a floral screen that smells and looks wonderful. Hedges like boxwoods grow large and can be trimmed into clean shapes to give a sense of boundary to your backyard, too. You can also look into mixing trees and shrubs for a particular aesthetic.
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Fences
Any fence would bring instant privacy, of course, but your options go beyond the traditional tall wood fence. It could be made of wooden rails that connect to gorgeous pillars made of stone, for example. That would mark a visual boundary but not feel so divisive as some other options.
If you do like the idea of a wood fence, consider softening its appearance by having climbing roses, bright geraniums, or ornamental trees planted alongside it.
Retaining Wall
A retaining wall is another excellent way to bring some seclusion to your backyard area. A low retaining wall built of stones to complement your architecture and landscape can be a special addition. This wall can be fairly plain to keep the focus on other aspects of your landscape, or you could have it decorated with plants and flowers hanging over it to turn it into a focal point that even your neighbors may enjoy admiring.
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A Pergola
Adding a large pergola to your backyard is a guaranteed way to create a designated area just for chilling out. With a latticed roof that offers dappled shade, a pergola can be as small or large as you want and have the space for. With curtains that can be let down when you wish, the pergola would give you permission to relax with a favorite book and a yummy drink while the kids play nearby.
A pergola can have a grass floor, or you can choose more permanent flooring such as pretty paving stones. One option is to have a swing anchored to the beams or have it furnished with comfortable outdoor sofas, pillows, and storage that holds throws for those chilly evenings.
Private Nook
Creating a private little nook, especially if your yard is small, is another effective way to increase privacy. You can have a small, two-sided trellis or fence with a plush seat and some wind chimes to unwind after a busy day. Choose an ornamental tree and some flowers, and you have your own little oasis.