Having an outdoor patio or deck space is somewhat pointless if you don't actually enjoy spending time there, and don't feel comfortable and relaxed when outside. One reason that some homeowners or apartment dwellers don't enjoy their outdoor space is because it's located too close to the neighbours, or even a busy roadway. To create privacy, you don't want to simply put up walls, as this can make a patio or deck feel closed-in and claustrophobic. Note a few suggestions for making your patio or deck space private while still being stylish.

Hedges

Hedges refer to bushes that grow very thick and dense, so they offer privacy and even noise insulation; to add privacy to your space, plant hedges around the edge of the patio or deck. Try boxwood, which gets its name from the fact that it grows to be very boxy and square, for a manicured look. Arborvitae is also a very popular hedge; check the mature height of the variety you choose, as some will grow to be several feet or meters tall. For some colour, choose lilac bushes or longwood blue mist shrubs, which offer a unique, blue blossom.

Bamboo

Bamboo shoots grow to be very thick and dense, to create a very natural-looking wall or barrier that still allows some sunlight and fresh air to circulate between the shoots. When planting bamboo, be sure you choose what is called a non-invasive variety, as some species of bamboo plants grow very quickly and spread very easily, taking over your entire yard. A non-invasive variety will be easier to manage and control and can provide a natural privacy screen outside.

Louvered screens

If you don't want to work to maintain hedges and other plants, try louvered outdoor screens for privacy. These can be freestanding, so you can simply add the panels to the edge of the patio or deck as needed, or they can be attached to the posts of a pergola. Louvered screens give you lots of flexibility, as you can open the slats to let in light and air, or close them for maximum privacy. Hinged panels also work like folding doors; you can fold them up to keep the space open, or unfold them flat to create a solid wall along one side of your outdoor space. Be sure to choose a dense wood that is water resistant, such as bamboo or teak, or opt for aluminium, which is naturally resistant to rust and corrosion, for minimal maintenance and upkeep.