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Ten Ways To Make Your Decks and Patios More Private
Big or small, fully furnished or modestly appointed, a deck is a terrific place to relax, have meals, or host get-togethers.
For a deck to feel like an extension of the home, privacy is crucial. Luckily, there are many different tricks to making a deck more discreet, from knowing how to arrange tables and seating to using barriers and decor.
Here are ten deck privacy ideas to help you create the ultimate outdoor spot for a private hangout.
Privacy Landscaping
Shrubs, plants, and trees are your main landscaping tools for privacy. You'll create more cover by staggering and layering plants around your deck. Remember to place them strategically to block the view from roads, entryways, or opposing windows.
Plants with thick or dense foliage, such as Boxwood and Arborvitae, make great landscaping options. You can also go for a tall evergreen like a Spruce or a Cypress to get year-round cover.
If you're on a budget, consider faux landscaping. Synthetic materials such as polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride are low-maintenance options that can block sight lines while adding a splash of green.
Planter Boxes
Also in the landscaping arsenal, planter boxes are great for creating cover and are additionally a practical place to grow vegetables, herbs, or perennial plants. They're fairly easy to move, which gives you more flexibility in their placement, though they work best along railings to create a walled-off effect.
Planter boxes come in different styles, so they add a unique character. Avoid complete symmetry and experiment with different box sizes and heights for visual appeal.
Umbrellas or Canopy
Outdoor umbrellas are affordable and portable, which is why you'll find them on more decks than not. Many models also have features like cantilevers that let you adjust their height and angle, making them effective in providing shade and privacy. Plus, there's no installation required!
Canopies are similar, budget-friendly options that provide cover for large areas and need minimal installation. Put one above an outdoor daybed for a place to take summer snoozes away from prying eyes.
Fencing or Lattice
Fencing is one of the best ways to create privacy for a deck, with wooden fences being the most common. Fencing is flexible — you can choose height, design, and color. Full fencing will give you a sense of complete separation, while a partial fence lends a semi-private feel.
Lattice screens are also an option. Although they only provide partial cover, they have the advantage of adding visual interest and letting in light. You can also mix climbing plants, flowers, and other outdoor accessories to spruce up a lattice.
Outdoor Curtains
The best part about curtains is their variety, making them terrific items for showing personality by mixing patterns and colors. Another great thing is you can draw curtains when you need privacy or tuck them away when you don't, making them a versatile choice.
You can drape your curtains over pergolas, install them with a tension rod, or use tracks. It's also a good idea to choose mildew and fade-resistant fabrics since they will be exposed to the elements.
Strategically Placed Furniture
Depending on the size and layout of your deck, there's a lot you can do to create privacy by strategically placing your furniture. From dining chairs, sofas, and loveseats to ottomans and poufs, there are many outdoor pieces to work with.
Put deck furniture where natural sight lines are blocked for maximum privacy. Always position seating away from streets and windows. And remember that bigger pieces, such as sofas or sectionals, can even act as barriers.
Natural Sounds
Although adding a sound element isn't the first thing that comes to mind when brainstorming privacy ideas for a deck, you'd be surprised at its effectiveness. A fountain or water feature will dazzle guests and insulate outside noise.
For something more practical, install speakers for maximum control over ambient noises. If you prefer something analog, wind chimes are a good choice.
One-Sided Walls
Not much provides more privacy than a wall — even if it's one-sided. Between blocking the view, throwing shade, and providing a decorative canvas for outdoor decor, one-sided walls are ideal for decks.
Certain materials, such as decorative stone or a vertical garden, can lend a distinct appeal. So, choose something that matches the rest of your outdoor furniture and overall vibe.
Roof or Pergola
Not much provides more privacy than a wall — even if it's one-sided. Between blocking the view, throwing shade, and providing a decorative canvas for outdoor decor, one-sided walls are ideal for decks.
Certain materials, such as decorative stone or a vertical garden, can lend a distinct appeal. So, choose something that matches the rest of your outdoor furniture and overall vibe.
Privacy Screens
Serving a similar function to one-sided walls but cheaper and lighter, privacy screens are great for decks and offer more customizable options. Depending on the size and materials, you can hang or place screens to act as dividers and create a private space.
Fabric, wood, and plastic are common materials, but you can also find them in synthetic materials and woven branches. Some screens with patterns and designs add visual interest, while other designs provide places to include outdoor accessories.
Turn Your Deck Into a Private Haven
Making a deck space more discreet is easier with a few basic ideas. And regardless of how you plan to use yours, privacy goes a long way toward making outdoor spaces welcoming, functional, and classy.
The deck and patio section is a good place to start, but also keep an eye out for outdoor furniture sales to help convert your deck into a private oasis.