Luke White
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.
MANUEL RODRÍGUEZ/MANUFOTO1TRY WOOD SLATS WITH GREENERY
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.
CHRISTIAN HARDER2ADD FAUX DECOR
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.
Lisa Flood3GO SHORT—AND RUSTIC
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.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
Jon Lovette//Getty Images4MIX SOLID AND LATTICE FENCING
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.
5PAINT 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.
Luke White6GO CLASSIC
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.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
PHOTO: Genevieve Garruppo; DESIGN: Leanne Ford Inteiors7CHAIN LINK OR WIRE FENCE
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.
SPLIT-RAIL FENCE
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.
PHOTO: Felix Forest; DESIGN: Arent & Pyke9SOLID TILED WALL
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.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
PHOTO: Sam Frost Studio; DESIGN: Alexander DB10IRON-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.
Nicole Franzen11RATTAN OR BAMBOO FENCE
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.
Hecker Guthrie12BRICK WALL
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.
Bon Traveler15STONE WALL
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.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
House Beautiful16GARDEN TRELLIS
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.
PHOTO: Charles Mayer; DESIGN: Hollander Design17SPLICED WOOD FENCE
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.
Bon Traveler18DIY ADDITION
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.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
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.
Fantastic Frank20PORTABLE PARTITION
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.
Line your perimeter with wood panels for a classic backyard fence idea that won’t cost a fortune. You can always space the panels further apart if you’re okay with a little less privacy.
