Garden privacy ideas – that don't block out light or encroach on space

In an ideal world we wouldn't need garden privacy ideas - our gardens would be private sanctuaries where we can potter, entertain and relax away from prying eyes. 

Yet, for many gardeners, the reality is quite different – spending time outdoors can be like living in a goldfish bowl because there is nothing to screen their plot from passers by and neighboring windows. 

Being overlooked is the daily reality for most people living in built-up areas with houses on either side, or immediately backing onto an outside space. The chances are you probably are being observed – at least occasionally – as you potter about in your garden.

Garden ideas for privacy

We've rounded up the best garden ideas to create privacy, so that you can enjoy your outdoor oasis in seclusion.

1. Provide shelter and privacy in the warmer months

While some people like to spend as much time as possible in their gardens year round, others tend to see their outdoor space as a spring/summer attraction.

If you are in the latter camp then tall, airy ‘see-through’ plants like bamboos or grasses around a seating or sunbathing area will provide sufficient screening, and still allow light to filter through without the need for more heavy duty garden fence ideas.

Likewise, a medium-sized feature tree planted in the sightline of a bedroom will provide privacy for your house. Just don’t plant it too close to the building itself. An upright ornamental cherry would make an attractive and effective shield, as would an ornamental pear such as Pyrus ‘Chanticleer’.

2. Trim branches without sacrificing the whole tree

Are you are worried that having trees will mean sacrificing light? Worry not – there are two techniques that will help. 

By cutting a few of the bigger branches right back to the trunk, you will allow more light through and prevent vigorous regrowth, which is also important to preserve space in small gardens.

You can also try something called ‘lifting your tree’s skirt’, which simply involves removing lower foliage. 

3. Create boundaries with hedges

Finding effective garden privacy ideas can seem daunting, but that doesn’t mean you have to give in and accept that your every move will be observed forever. There are plenty of ways to improve privacy without resorting to tall fences or towering garden wall ideas.   

A good place to start is with your boundaries. Some gardens are defined by low walls or ‘see-through’ fences that offer very little cover. The ideal solution is to establish a hedge, using fast-growing species. 

Deciduous hedges are best planted from late fall to early spring using bare-rooted plants. Evergreen hedges, using container grown plants, should be planted from mid to late spring.

4. Build a sheltered structure on an exterior wall

A dining or lounge space close to the house can take inspiration from these porch ideas with the addition of a covering structure attached to an exterior wall.  

‘Every garden has those places you automatically drift to, as well as natural areas of shade, light and privacy,’ explains award-winning landscape and garden designer Sarah Eberle. 

‘Climbing plants for pergolas and walkways might seem like a romantic option that also offers an element of privacy, but the truth is that many quickly grow out of control, damaging supporting structures, so it’s important to choose non-vigorous species. Pillar roses work well and so does clematis, but this needs to be paired with something evergreen, such as Akebia quinata.’

5. Go underground

Sunken gardens make great retreats and are especially useful garden privacy ideas when designing urban plots or looking for long garden ideas, where boundary fences may cast unwanted shade. 

Lowering a terrace by just 18-20 inches makes it easier to create a sense of privacy with planting or awnings; if you want to go lower, ask a landscape architect to check the water table level and advise on drainage. 

In a sloping garden, carve out terraces and create an outdoor room on the lowest level.

6. Enforce border controls

Lining paths or patios with perennials, grasses and bamboos is a good way to hide seating areas from view. 

Plants that die down in winter offer privacy during summer when you are relaxing outside, but will not block out light during the rest of the year. 

By placing seats strategically, you may find flowers and foliage do not need to be very tall to make an effective screen.

7. Opt for a cover up

A sail shade suspended over a seating area will not only block direct views from upper storey windows, but will also give protection from sunlight and showers. 

The frame can be adorned with climbers, to enhance the enclosed feel. Check that they will grow tall enough to cover the structure, and fix wires to the uprights for the stems to cling to. 

8. Build a summerhouse or pavilion

Position a summerhouse or pavilion so that it backs onto the garden boundary where it is most overlooked; the building's roof and walls will create a visual barrier and a private space in front.   

Concealing the structure behind trees or large shrubs can increase the sense of seclusion, especially if it is reached by a journey through the garden via charming garden path.

Where there is no space for a building, alternative garden privacy ideas such as an arbor seat next to a boundary will have a similar effect.

9. Install a water feature

Although water features may not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of garden privacy ideas, screening noise in a garden is crucial for a tranquil ambience. 

Water spouts and fountains help to drown out the sound of traffic and noisy neighbors, and ensure your conversations are not easily overheard.   

The most effective water features produce just the right level of sound – soothing rather than irritating – and form an integral part of the garden design. 

10. Step into the woods 

Trees offer unlimited scope for providing privacy. A small copse planted at the end of a garden will form a quiet refuge. In a large, open space, use ornamental trees to screen off a sheltered area with a dramatic view – and edge it with hedges or low walls.   

In smaller gardens, three or four trees with slim trunks, such as Himalayan birches, are the best trees for a small garden because they create a snug wooded retreat.

How can I get privacy in my garden?

Garden zoning is one of the most effective garden privacy ideas.

Consider the sight line – where are you trying to get privacy from? Then block these areas off to create private spots. 

To do this, play with planting – layers of tall grasses help to softly zone a private area in your garden. Screening helps, too. Choose a material which sits in your garden style, perhaps bamboo, metal or wood. 

If you're trying to block off sight from above, then adding a pergola is a great way to achieve privacy. Rush matting at the top, or growing climbers such as ivy or clematis, will allow light to filter in but not wandering eyes.

How can  I stop neighbors overlooking my garden?

Tempting though it may be to block yourself off from the world, high panel fencing often isn’t the answer. For starters, erecting a fence more than 6ft (2m) high will not only annoy your neighbors but may require planning permission. Secondly, doing so will likely shade out some of your garden, and reduce your planting options.

So instead of reaching for the fencing, try and make the best use of what you already have. Take a stroll around your garden to identify where any privacy issues might lie. Is there any part of your plot where you cannot be seen at all? If so, ask yourself whether you are currently making the best use of this precious space. It’s also worth considering exactly when privacy is most important to you.

Ultimately, with a bit of thought, a few simple techniques and clever use of garden privacy ideas, you can enjoy your time in the garden without an audience – and will not have to sacrifice light to do so.

What plants make the best privacy screens?

Use these raised garden bed ideas around the perimeter of your space. Filled with tall plants like bamboo, ornamental grasses and Carex pendula they will naturally create privacy. Like net curtains, they’ll provide a screen between you and the outside world without casting too much shade.