How to Add Privacy to Your Yard Without Detracting From Its Appearance
Adding privacy to your yard without making the space seem like it's too closed-in and claustrophobic, and even downright prison-like can be difficult. A large and imposing wall gives you privacy but might make the space seem smaller and cut off the view of the horizon, and will also reduce the fresh air that circulates in your yard. Wood fences are popular, but wood is notorious for needing constant maintenance and upkeep, and easily gets damaged when exposed to pool water and chemicals. This doesn't mean you're without options for adding privacy in your space; note a few tips on how to create a backyard space you love and that offers all you the privacy you want as well:
Frosted glass panels
Glass is a very durable material that stands up to pool water and chemicals, and which isn't likely to get chipped or scratched if you should accidentally hit it with lawn care equipment. Glass also lets in lots of light, while frosted glass offers some privacy from neighbours. To break up the look of the glass, use aluminium frames; these can be powder coated virtually any colour, so they can coordinate with the aluminium siding of your home or with a favourite colour in your home's landscaping.
Privacy screens
Aluminium privacy screens are very good for any backyard, as aluminium can be fabricated in a variety of ways. Punched aluminium, meaning that a design or pattern is punched through the metal, can allow in more sunshine and fresh air, while still blocking the view of your neighbours. A privacy screen is often built in separate panels, so you can easily place them where they will best obscure the view from your neighbour's patio or porch.
Greenery
Hedges can provide lots of privacy, but if you don't want your yard surrounded by thick hedges and shrubs, use potted plants. For example, you might line up a row of potted cacti or yucca plants, which grow very well in sunny, windy areas. Another plant to consider is mother in-law's tongue, or Sansevieria trifasciata, as these grow long, thick stems that offer privacy, and they also flourish in pots as well as they do when planted in the ground.
Bush plum is another favourite plant that doesn't get too wide, so you can easily control how much privacy you get with this plant. The stems are a bit bumpy so they provide some texture that can enhance the view around your property while also obscuring your neighbour's view.