Why privacy is a priority for new homeowners

You’ve finally got the keys to your first house and you’re already picturing moments of relaxation in the garden, with no noise and no prying eyes. But then… there’s the nosy neighbor, the one who greets you every time you take out the trash in your pajamas. Or worse, the passersby peeking in to see what the inside of the house looks like. Yes, welcome to the reality of new homeowners: privacy isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.

The house is yours, and no one should “enter it with their eyes.”

When you buy a house, you finally want to feel free, protected, and in control of your space. After months (or years) of renting, shared stairwells, and noisy neighbors behind the wall, having a garden of your own is a dream come true. But it’s a dream you also need to protect. Without proper fencing or some kind of visual barrier, you risk always feeling like you’re on display. Ever want to sunbathe in the garden but change your mind because someone might see you from the street? You’re not alone. Or maybe you’re arranging your outdoor furniture and notice someone stopping to peek in as they walk by. Annoying, right?

The truth is, privacy isn’t just about “hiding”—it’s about truly feeling at home.

It’s not just about nosy people: protect yourself and those you love. Privacy isn’t just about who’s watching, but especially how you feel. If you don’t feel free to step outside in slippers, cook with the window open, or play with the kids in the garden, something’s wrong. A well-designed fence helps you regain that sense of peace you were looking for when buying a house. If you have young children or pets, you know how important it is to let them play outside without having to watch them every second. With a fence that ensures privacy and safety, you can relax while they explore the garden. Also, living in an exposed house can become a security issue. More visibility means more vulnerability: anyone can see when you’re home, what you own, and if you have valuables outside. In a world where thefts aren’t that rare, it’s a risk many new homeowners prefer not to take. Privacy = mental well-being and daily freedom Don’t underestimate the psychological effect of having a space that’s truly yours, where you can be yourself without having to “filter” every move. Whether you’re doing yoga outside, working on your laptop on the porch, or simply hanging laundry, knowing that no one is watching is a small luxury that improves every day. Think about how many times, even in the first few months, you’ve wondered: “I wonder if someone can see me from there…” or “Maybe I should wait to go out, I don’t want to be seen like this.” Every time you do that, you’re limiting your freedom. Privacy helps free you from these unnecessary thoughts. Choosing a fence with privacy panels, artificial hedges, or modular solutions can be the game changer to truly start living in your home. And if you also pay attention to aesthetics, you’ll improve privacy without sacrificing style. But how much does it really cost to protect your privacy? Here’s the question you’re probably asking yourself: “Okay, you’ve convinced me, but how much do I have to spend for a good fence?” The answer is: less than you think, if you choose smartly. Today, there are modular solutions that can be installed alone or with minimal help, ensuring privacy and a great look. You can start with one part of the garden and then expand the project based on your budget. You don’t need to do everything at once. The important thing is to start and choose materials that are easy to install, durable, and require minimal maintenance. Some kits are designed specifically for first-time buyers who don’t want to deal with a thousand calculations. Aesthetically too, you have plenty of choices: from composite wood to cement-effect PVC, from synthetic hedges to aluminum slats. There’s something for every style and budget.  

Tall, green, or artistic fences: pros and cons

You’ve chosen your first house, and now comes one of the most underestimated but important decisions: what type of fence to install? Tall, low, transparent, colorful, natural, or super modern? Each has its advantages and some minor drawbacks. In this light but practical guide, I’ll help you clear things up and choose the fence that’s really right for you.

Tall fences: maximum security, but watch out for the bunker effect

If your main goal is security, then tall fences are probably the first option that comes to mind. Let’s be honest: nothing says “do not enter” better than a nice 2-meter barrier with spikes on top. You immediately feel protected, the kids can play freely, and the dog can run without worries. No one can see inside, no one can snoop. The pros are clear: protection, privacy, and total control of your outdoor space. In some areas, especially near busy roads or busy sidewalks, it’s practically essential. But like everything, there’s also a less exciting side. A fence that’s too tall can give a “fortress” effect, closing off the space too much and making the garden less bright. Also, in some municipalities, there are height limits to follow, so always check the local building regulations. Finally, from an aesthetic point of view, a tall fence needs to be well balanced with the house’s architecture. Otherwise, it risks looking like a designer prison. The trick? If you want height but also lightness, choose materials with angled slats or perforated metal panels, which provide screening but let light and air pass through.

Green fences: natural aesthetics, but with patience

Green fences are among the most loved by new homeowners. They have a natural, relaxing charm and blend perfectly with the environment. Whether you choose a real hedge or a panel with synthetic leaf effect, the result is always the same: a feeling of freshness and harmony. The great thing is you can play with plants, change their arrangement, prune, or decorate with lights and seasonal accessories. A real hedge also offers a small contribution to the environment: it attracts butterflies, purifies the air, and gives you that “green” touch that never gets old. But here come the cons. If you choose natural, be ready to invest time and patience. Hedges don’t grow overnight; they need watering, pruning, and care. In winter, they might lose leaves or change appearance. And synthetic ones? Practical, yes, but they require a sturdy structure behind and an occasional good cleaning to avoid the “fake garden” effect. In summary: green yes, but know what you’re getting into. If you don’t have time, consider a hybrid: a modular base covered with green inserts or easy-to-manage climbers.

Artistic fences: unique style, but balance is needed

If you want to stand out, then artistic fences are your chance to do it in great style. Perforated panels with geometric patterns, laser cuts on metal, frosted glass inserts, or decorated wood: anything is possible. The most obvious pro? The wow effect. Every guest who arrives will say, “What a beautiful fence!” even before seeing the rest of the house. If you like the idea of a house with character, a designer fence is the perfect choice. Plus, many modern artistic solutions are also modular, so you can easily combine them and even install them yourself with a bit of handiwork. But beware: the line between art and chaos is thin. If the fence is too elaborate, it can clash with the style of the house or neighborhood. And you might even attract more attention than expected… the very eyes you wanted to avoid. Another critical point: cost. Artistic fences tend to be more expensive, especially if custom-made. If you have a limited budget, consider design-inspired solutions that come ready in kits.  

Smart solutions to maintain privacy without walls

You dream of a cozy house with a livable garden and without feeling like you’re in a bunker? Then tall, gray walls are probably not for you. The good news is that you can have privacy and visual freedom at the same time, without turning your home into a medieval fortress. Today there are many smart and modern solutions to protect your privacy outdoors without giving up light, aesthetics, and above all, good taste.

Pannelli modulari: flessibili, moderni e anche belli da vedere

One of the most popular options among new homeowners is modular panels, perfect for those looking for a middle ground between a solid wall and a simple fence. They are easy to install, come in many different styles, and often don’t even require a professional mason’s help. The panels can be made of wood, PVC, metal, or composite materials, and many have angled or perforated slats that block the view without stopping the air flow. You can also combine them, alternate heights or colors to create a more dynamic, elegant, and personalized effect. The great thing is they’re modular, so you can start with one side of the garden and then add more over time. You don’t need to spend everything at once: with smart planning, you can get a smart, custom fence. Some models even allow you to integrate solar lights, planters, or small shelves to make the barrier even more useful.

Green trellises: natural privacy with a touch of elegance

If you love the “secret garden” effect but don’t have a green thumb (or the time to care for a real hedge), trellises with climbing plants are your ideal solution. You can use them as light dividing walls, place them on one side of the garden, or as coverings for terraces and balconies. A wooden or metal trellis, paired with artificial or real climbing plants, lets you achieve privacy without closing off the space. And if you choose plants like jasmine, passionflower, or pepper vine, the result will be fragrant and delightful. If you prefer zero maintenance, today there are also synthetic green panels that faithfully reproduce leaves, flowers, and even moss. Some look so realistic that your guests will have to touch them to tell if they’re real or fake. An advantage of trellises is that you can also use them as internal dividers in the garden, perhaps to separate the relaxation area from the barbecue or play zone. Functional, attractive, and suitable for every type of house.

Awnings, sails, and privacy screens: lightweight but super effective solutions

You don’t want to build anything permanent but need temporary or seasonal privacy? Then you can opt for textile or movable solutions, lightweight and very easy to manage. Outdoor curtains are perfect for those who have a pergola, veranda, or covered dining area. You can pull them down only when needed, and choose blackout or breathable fabrics depending on the sun’s position. Today you can find curtains that are beautiful, durable, water-repellent, and even decorated with natural or modern patterns. If instead you have an open space and want something more striking, you can choose shade sails to stretch between walls or poles. Besides providing shade, they create a great visual barrier from above and the side, with an elegant, Mediterranean effect. Finally, there are privacy screens for terraces or gardens that you can move and reposition depending on the occasion. They come in wood, bamboo, fabric, or woven plastic, and work great for creating private corners without permanent structures. The best part? They’re affordable, lightweight, and you can set them up in half an hour, maybe with the help of your partner or a willing friend.

The trick is to mix: create your personalized private corner

The truth is there isn’t just one right solution, but a mix that reflects your tastes, style, and the needs of your space. You can combine modular panels with green trellises, or alternate sails and privacy screens to create a “zoned” garden, all your own. Start by asking yourself how much privacy you really need and at what times of day or week. Then consider how much space you have, whether you prefer permanent or temporary solutions, and, of course, how much you want (or can) spend. Even with a limited budget, today you can achieve a great visual and functional result without sacrificing quality. And above all, without building walls that suffocate the light and ruin the aesthetics of your new home.  

And above all, without building walls that suffocate the light and ruin the aesthetics of your new home.

When you move into your first house, one of the most annoying aspects is often the lack of privacy. Maybe you want to block the view, but without spending a fortune or resorting to complicated and expensive work. Don’t worry: there are plenty of budget-friendly, DIY solutions you can easily create, even without experience! In this section, I’ll show you some simple and clever ways to protect yourself from prying eyes, without wasting time or money.

DIY outdoor curtains: privacy within reach

Did you know you can create a comfortable, lightweight, and very versatile visual barrier with outdoor curtains? No need to buy professional or custom-made curtains: with a few meters of durable fabric and some rings, you can work wonders. For example, choose a waterproof or outdoor-treated fabric, and hang it between wooden posts or railings with a simple rope. You can close the curtain whenever you want, and easily roll it up or move it on windy or rainy days. The main advantage is flexibility: you don’t have to decide everything right away, but can change the position and length according to the seasons or your needs. Plus, you can choose bright colors and patterns to add a personal touch to your garden or terrace. If you want an even cheaper alternative, try using old bedsheets or lightweight curtains, maybe dyed or decorated with fabric paints. It works, it’s creative, and it makes you feel proud of your homemade project.

Natural screens: plants and pallets for a green and low-cost look

If you love DIY and nature, you can use plants and recycled materials to build an affordable green barrier. A timeless classic is wooden pallets, which you can find for free or for a few euros in many places. With some sanding and a few coats of protective paint, pallets become beautiful vertical structures to grow climbing plants or hold flower boxes. They are also great dividers to create relaxing corners or small outdoor rooms. Climbing plants like jasmine, ivy, or wisteria are perfect to quickly cover these structures. If you don’t want too much commitment, you can also choose evergreen plants that are hardy in your area’s climate. Alternatively, you can make a DIY green wall with metal mesh and dry branches or reeds. This type of screen is lightweight, natural, and lets air and light pass through, but effectively blocks views. The satisfaction of watching your barrier grow with the plants is priceless, and the final result is unique, warm, and very welcoming.

Decorative screens with recycled materials: creativity without limits

Don’t underestimate the power of creative recycling! To block the view without spending too much, you can use simple, recycled materials, maybe combined with a touch of design. For example, old wooden shutters or rusty iron grates, properly restored, become beautiful fences or dividers. You can hang them vertically or horizontally, maybe adding climbing plants or decorative lights. Another brilliant idea is used shade cloths, which you can buy second-hand online at bargain prices or get from friends. Just cut them and attach them to posts or railings, creating screens that protect from view and sun. If you’re a bit handy, you can build a lightweight wall with stacked and secured fruit crates, to fill with flower pots or aromatic plants. This way, you get a flowering, fragrant, and colorful wall that no one can pass through. The important thing is to have fun and not rush: every DIY project takes time, but gives you a satisfaction no prefabricated wall can provide.

Which solution is right for you?

Now that you know some affordable DIY alternatives to block the view, you just have to choose the one that best fits your space, style, and the time you want to dedicate. You can start with a simple project and expand it over time, or dare to try a creative idea all your own. Remember that the beauty of these solutions is also the possibility to personalize them, mix them together, and make them truly unique. Maybe start with an inexpensive curtain and some potted plants, then add a green wall or a pallet panel to complete everything. This way, your DIY fence won’t be just a functional object, but a true piece of home art.

Conclusion: low-cost privacy with plenty of style

You don’t need to spend thousands of euros to create a private corner in your garden or terrace. With a bit of creativity, simple materials, and a few free hours, you can build a beautiful and functional visual barrier. DIY solutions are perfect even for those who have just bought their first home and want to save money without giving up design and practicality. And above all, they give you the satisfaction of having done everything with your own hands, truly making every part of the house your own.