
Homeowners across South Carolina enjoy spending time in their yards, soaking up some sunshine and vitamin D. But for those who live close to their neighbors, there might not be as much privacy as they’d like. Your outdoor living space should be a sanctuary where you can relax, entertain, and enjoy nature without feeling exposed to the outside world.
Whether you have a backyard, patio, balcony, or deck, enhancing privacy can make your space more inviting and serene. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be difficult to increase privacy in your yard. If you’re looking for great ways to increase your privacy, keep reading to see what our team recommends.
1. Consider Planting Strategically Placed Trees and Hedges
If you want to increase privacy in your yard while considering other upgrades to your space, you might want to consider planting strategically placed trees and hedges. Trees and hedges that grow to be tall and thin can help you create a privacy barrier without compromising the structural integrity of any fences lining your property. When choosing plants for your yard, it is always best to choose native plants, as they are often best equipped to handle local weather conditions. Some of the best plants for your South Carolina yard include:
- Wax Myrtle
- Southern Magnolia
- American Holly
- Eastern Red Juniper
2. Install a Privacy Fence
One major upgrade you can make to your yard to help increase privacy is to install a privacy fence. While picket or wrought iron fences may look visually appealing, they do very little to increase privacy in your backyard. To boost your privacy, consider investing in a solid board fence. It is important to note that the city of Greenville has a 7-foot limit on fences. While 6 feet is often enough to provide ample privacy, anyone considering a fence taller than this should reconsider if they want to avoid fines from the city.

3. Incorporate Lattice Panels into Your Design
If you already have an established outdoor living space but want to increase privacy, you should consider investing in lattice panels. These panels do a great job of allowing natural light into an outdoor space while preventing others from seeing you while you’re lounging or spending time with loved ones. The panels can be attached to pressure-treated lumber posts to ensure they’re secure throughout inclement weather. If you love to enjoy the feeling of sunlight but hate the constant worry about prying eyes, this is a great way to get the best of both worlds.
4. Hang Outdoor Curtains
While privacy fences and plants are a great way to increase privacy in your yard, they aren’t always a great option for everyone. Sometimes, you might need a less permanent solution to boost privacy. Consider hanging outdoor curtains if you want more privacy in your outdoor living spaces but need a less permanent option. The materials used to create outdoor curtains are more durable than standard curtains, making them resistant to rain, wind, and snow while helping you achieve the privacy levels you’ve dreamed of.

5. Create an Enclosed Space with a Pergola
For homeowners who want to increase privacy on their patio, porch, or deck, it might be a good idea to consider installing a pergola in your yard. Pergolas do a wonderful job of creating more dedicated outdoor living spaces. This makes them a great addition to yards that don’t already have dedicated spaces. Additionally, you can determine how much overhead sunlight you want, making them a versatile option for many homeowners. No matter what you’re looking for in your yard, a pergola is sure to be a great addition.
6. Add a Retractable Sun Screen
While you might want to increase privacy in your yard, you may also want an option you can use when you see fit. For homeowners who want some flexibility, consider adding a retractable sun screen or awning to your yard. When you notice neighbors in your yard or when the sun is peering directly into your outdoor living space, you can pull out the screen. When you head inside for the day or want to look out, you can put the screen away and enjoy your view. This is an especially beneficial addition to yards with little to no overhead cover.
7. Use Large Outdoor Umbrellas
If you have a smaller outdoor living space but are still interested in increasing your privacy, a large outdoor umbrella may be a good addition to your space. For individuals with a small outdoor table, there may be a hole for you to slot the umbrella into. Not only does this increase privacy, but it also provides shade when you are eating outside. You may also purchase an umbrella stand that you can situate in a more convenient location to block the view for your neighbors.

Increase Privacy with Surface Bella
For homeowners who are interested in installing a pergola, awning, or patio cover on their Greenville property, turn to our team at Surface Bella for support. For years, we’ve helped homeowners create their perfect outdoor living space. From adding custom decks and patios to assisting them to find their ideal porch and patio cover, we’re confident that we have the right yard add-on for your space.
Don’t let prying eyes into your outdoor living space for another day; contact us today and schedule installation.