Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (2024)

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (1)

You know what they say: Good fences make good neighbors. And while fencing may not be the most exciting topic when it comes to exterior and landscape design, they are essential—especially in the backyard. So we've laid out plenty of backyard privacy fence ideas to make your home a little safer from intruders and keep nosy neighbors out of your business. Some are DIY projects, while others may require a little more work and investment, but they'll all help you maintain good boundaries. Read through to learn about your backyard fence options to decide which is best for you.

1

Try Wood Slats With Greenery

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (2)

For privacy and a jungle-like effect, designer Christina Nielsen gave this Brooklyn backyard privacy via a fence made of horizontal wood slats, which acts as a trellis for climbing greenery. Additional landscaping boosts the patio's liveliness. She also outfitted the space with an umbrella for extra shade and cozy seat throw pillows, making it the perfect city escape.

2

Add Faux Decor

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (3)

Spruce up a basic privacy fence with faux greenery and additional wall decor. To create the no-maintenance garden in this small urban backyard, designer Alison Victoria removed the glass from an antique pier mirror that was formerly in the entryway of an old home and then nailed faux fir panels directly into the fence.

3

Go Short—and Rustic

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (4)

A short pallet fence makes an excellent option if you're only after a little privacy, want protection from things like unwanted animal intruders, or want to let your pets roam in a secure area. At this log cabin by designer Emily Janak, the fence enhances the rustic look without taking away from forest views.

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4

Mix Solid and Lattice Fencing

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (5)

Go for a decorative look by mixing solid fencing on the bottom and lattice fencing on top. Not only will it add interest and offer ample privacy, but the lattice detail will allow more light into the space.

5

Paint It Dark

If you're into a moody, modern look, paint your privacy fence charcoal or black. In this backyard by Terremoto, the dark fence and pergola are perfectly balanced by the warmth of the light wood seating and a plethora of plants.

6

Go Classic

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A traditional white post and rail fence like this one has a quaint air to it—there's a reason it evokes images of the American Dream. Use reclaimed wood for a rustic feel, or paint it white for that small-town charm as designer Marshall Watson did here.

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7

Chain Link or Wire Fence

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (8)

Chicken coop fencing isn't necessarily the prettiest option out there, but wire fencing does increase safety (and it's cheap). If you decorate well enough, nobody will even notice it because they'll be too busy focusing on the great furniture and decor, like on this patio by Leanne Ford Interiors.

8

Rustic Split-Rail Fence

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (9)

Like a four-rail horse fence only more rustic, this simple design can be easily built from scratch. If you want to protect your home more, you can cover the gaps in your split rail fence with mesh. It's great for pets on the perimeter.

9

Solid Tiled Wall

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (10)

When it comes to privacy and safety concerns, a solid wall is a better route to take than a fence. This one in a home designed by Arent & Pyke also happens to set the scene on the patio nicely. Covered in tiles, it delivers sophistication and style.

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10

Iron-Wrought Fence

Overlooking a gorgeous view like this, a backyard fence should blend in, so you can really soak in the vista beyond. An iron-wrought fence is both durable and practical, modern and timeless. Take note of this Malibu oasis designed by Alexander DB for inspiration.

11

Rattan or Bamboo Fence

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (12)

Instead of a classic wood-paneled fence, try a bamboo or rattan variation. It boasts a bohemian island vibe and does well in tropical climates, though it's also resilient in chillier environments and can withstand snow. Take note of this one at the Papaya Playa Project hotel in Tulum. But keep in mind it may be pricier than classic wood fencing options.

12

Brick Wall

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (13)

On this patio designed by Hecker Guthrie, the brick wall adds a charming old-school touch. The white paint makes it fit in well with the other modern elements, like the brushed cement flooring and oversized planter, too.

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13

Trees and Shrubbery

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (14)

The backyard is your space to reconnect with nature and unwind in the fresh air. So instead of saturating it with furniture and an eyesore of a fence, get creative with landscaping. A concentration of tall shrubs and trees can function as a living wall, like this one designed by Studio Lifestyle.

14

Garden Fence

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (15)

Keep your flowerbeds and vegetables safe in the garden with an extra fence. Since gardens are meant to be lush and beautiful, opt for fencing that blends in well with the environment. This 8-foot tall wooden fence in a space designed by Lisa Bynon sets the right mood—it's the perfect balance between open and closed.

15

Stone Wall

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (16)

You'll have to check zoning regulations for your region before erecting a stone wall, but it can be a great option for extra backyard privacy and security. Plus, the natural stones are perfect for country chic style.

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16

Garden Trellis

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A solid fence on the outskirts of the property is a great idea, while charming trellis fences are best in a sprawling garden space like this one. Limiting yourself to one type of flower saves on yard work in the long run. For a client who really loves roses, Edmund Hollander planted some 250 English grandifloras. It doesn't get more romantic than this.

17

Spliced Wood Fence

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (18)

Landscape design firm Hollander Design collaborated with Roger Ferris & Partners to create this gorgeous, architectural backyard fence. It's a modern interpretation of the classic spliced picket fence and brings a touch of privacy. It all depends on how open or closed you want the fence to be.

18

DIY Addition

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (19)

That DIY fence extension gives this tiny backyard a tropical appeal while also enhancing privacy. If your stucco garden wall is too short to block the neighbors but you don't want to block out the sunlight, a slatted option like this is perfect.

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19

Tall Hedge

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (20)

This yard designed by Arent & Pyke proves that hedges are a lovely backdrop for outdoor living rooms. One grand hedge like this will enhance privacy while also adding some greenery, making it the perfect backyard fencing for anyone wanting to keep things green.

20

Portable Partition

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (21)

On a city balcony with little privacy, add at least an illusion of privacy with a room divider against the section that separates yours from your neighbors. Just make sure you choose a screen that can withstand the outdoors.

Want Total Backyard Privacy? Try These Smart Fencing Ideas (2024)

FAQs

How to block neighbor's view of the backyard? ›

Although fences and brick walls can do the trick, adding an extra divider, screen or plant barrier can block your neighbor's two-story view for good. To create your secret retreat, freestanding privacy screens, wood slat partitions and partially enclosed pergolas are effective (and nice to look at).

How can I make an inexpensive privacy fence? ›

Fence wood, usually cedar or pine, is plentiful, relatively inexpensive, and simple to work with. Wood-composite and vinyl are good materials for privacy fences, too. Bamboo, chain link, and wrought iron fences contain too many spaces to provide privacy.

How to create backyard privacy without a fence? ›

Physical structures like a pergola or pavilion, a pool house, or even an outdoor fireplace, can go a really long way in blocking views and screening-in an area. In fact, you can even go as far as adding screens to a pergola or pavilion area to create more of an “outdoor room.”

Can I put up a privacy screen on my side of the fence? ›

Privacy screens can be installed directly in front of the existing fence (on your side), totally negating the need to negotiate with your neighbours.

How to get instant privacy from neighbours? ›

10 Ways to Block Neighbors View of Your Backyard
  1. Staggered Wooden Boards. Photo by Andrew Drake. ...
  2. Hedges for Privacy. iStock. ...
  3. Layered Privacy Plantings. ...
  4. Container Gardens for Deck Privacy. ...
  5. Fences and Walls. ...
  6. Stone Wall Topped with Fencing. ...
  7. Masonry Walls with Ornamental Ironwork. ...
  8. Panels and Pergolas.

Can you put up a privacy fence without digging holes? ›

Choose your fencing materials and decide on their placement. Order the fence materials, including galvanized steel posts, high-density stiffeners, security features, and installation equipment. Use the post-driver to quickly and securely pound the galvanized steel posts into any terrain without digging any holes.

How to separate front yard from neighbors? ›

Fill the corners. An easy way to break up the yard's edges without creating Fort Knox is to add in planting beds at the corners. You can go high in the back center and then step lower on the sides. This helps define the yard without needing to invest in a fence.

Can I install a privacy fence myself? ›

While DIY fence installation isn't easy, it is absolutely a project that most people can tackle with a friend or two. Once you find the fence material that you like, we can ship it to you anywhere in the USA. If you plan properly and work carefully, you can have a truly standout fence AND huge savings.

How to create a natural privacy fence? ›

Softscape fences can include options like bamboo hedges, tall shrubs, or even planting a line of evergreen trees that maintain their look year-round. You'll have more options if the area is sunny, as many shrubs and flowering bushes require at least six hours of sun per day.

How to add privacy to a backyard fence? ›

Layer Plants Near the Fence Line

Then, plant a mix of shorter shrubs and perennials to fill in the gaps and make a more unified, natural privacy wall in your backyard. If you want year-round privacy, plant evergreen trees, like pine or spruce, and layer those with cypress shrubs.

How do I stop my Neighbours from watching me? ›

Place signs around the house

By placing them strategically around your home, you can let neighbors know that they're being watched. These simple, non-confrontational approaches can help let your neighbors know that, while you're happy to have them around, you also want your privacy.

What can I do if my neighbor is watching me? ›

You need proof. 2) Contact the police and file a police report. Show the police the proof from your phone. Based on what you described, this behavior may be seen as stalking;3) In the event the police report does not help or the police are unable to do anything, you may consider filing for a restraining order in court.

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