If you share your garden, terrace, or patio with neighbours or housemates, you may be looking for ways to create a sense of privacy and personal space without giving up on style. Thankfully, it’s entirely possible to design a divided outdoor area that’s both functional and beautiful. Here are our top tips for adding stylish divides to shared outdoor spaces.
1. Stylish Decorative Screens
Decorative screens are a fantastic solution for creating privacy zones without blocking light or compromising on aesthetics. At Screen With Envy, we offer a variety of designs, from sleek geometric patterns to delicate botanical motifs, all crafted to elevate any outdoor space. Place these screens between seating areas or dining spots to instantly establish a more personal section within a shared garden or terrace.
The beauty of decorative screens is their versatility—they’re easy to install, move, and reconfigure as needed, giving you the flexibility to change your space layout whenever you like. Choose a screen design that complements your outdoor decor for a polished, cohesive look.
2. Planters for Green, Natural Divisions
Large planters with tall greenery can create natural, elegant dividers within your garden or patio. Use planters with leafy plants like bamboo, ornamental grasses, or even small trees to add privacy and define specific areas. Planters work especially well for dividing seating or dining areas from more open communal spaces, providing a sense of separation while maintaining a fresh, green aesthetic.
Planters offer an adaptable option for renters and homeowners alike, as they can be easily moved or rearranged when needed. Mix different plant varieties and heights to create an organic, layered look that feels intentional and stylish.
3. Pergolas with Draped Curtains
If you’re looking for a more structured way to divide an outdoor space, consider a pergola with outdoor curtains. Pergolas provide a clear, elegant boundary between different zones and can be dressed up with curtains or climbing plants for added privacy. By hanging weather-resistant curtains along the sides, you create an enclosed feel that’s ideal for a cosy dining area or secluded seating space.
Outdoor curtains add a touch of luxury to any garden and can be opened or closed as desired, allowing you to adjust the privacy level based on who’s around. This flexible solution also adds a soft, relaxed feel that’s perfect for summer evenings outdoors.
4. DIY Trellises with Climbing Plants
Trellises are a charming way to add privacy and style to shared spaces without needing a full fence or wall. Place a trellis between areas, and plant climbing plants like ivy, jasmine, or clematis to create a green, living screen over time. A trellis is both lightweight and easy to install, making it ideal for renters or anyone looking for a temporary solution.
The natural growth of climbing plants adds a soft, organic element to your garden or patio, bringing texture and privacy. Plus, flowering climbers can introduce a wonderful fragrance and seasonal blooms, further enhancing the ambiance of your outdoor space.
5. Outdoor Rugs for Zoning
While outdoor rugs don’t offer physical privacy, they can help establish separate areas within a shared space by visually defining specific zones. Choose a large, weatherproof rug to mark out your seating area or dining space, creating a dedicated area that feels distinct from the rest of the garden.
Rugs add comfort and style while also helping to organise an outdoor space. With a variety of patterns and colours available, an outdoor rug can make your zone feel more personal and homey, adding warmth and style without the need for permanent dividers.
6. Hanging Planters and Vertical Gardens
If floor space is limited, hanging planters or vertical gardens offer a creative solution for adding privacy while maximising your green space. Install a row of hanging planters along a pergola or on a balcony railing to create a screen of greenery at eye level. You can also mount a vertical garden on a wall to serve as both a privacy divider and a beautiful living wall.
Vertical gardens are perfect for small shared spaces like balconies or compact patios, and they allow you to enjoy fresh greenery without taking up valuable ground space. Plus, they can be customised to include a mix of herbs, flowers, and small foliage plants, adding interest and variety.
7. Freestanding Shelving with Decorative Elements
Freestanding shelves are a practical and stylish way to divide shared areas, offering the benefit of storage as well as privacy. Use open shelves to add a subtle partition between spaces, and decorate with potted plants, lanterns, or even outdoor-friendly ornaments for a touch of personality.
Shelving units are an excellent option if you’re looking to add some height without blocking views completely. They’re also adaptable and can be styled to reflect your personality, helping to make your section of the garden feel truly like your own.
8. Outdoor Umbrellas for Shade and Privacy
In shared gardens or terraces, umbrellas can be a stylish way to create shaded, private nooks. Position a large umbrella over your seating or dining area to establish your own section of the space while adding protection from the sun. Look for tilting or adjustable umbrellas that allow you to control the angle and coverage, giving you privacy when needed.
Outdoor umbrellas come in a range of colours and patterns, so they can easily be chosen to complement your decor. Not only do they offer privacy, but they also make your space feel cosier, inviting you to relax and enjoy the shade on sunny days.
9. Outdoor Mirrors for Depth and Illusion of Separation
While mirrors don’t create privacy directly, they can be used cleverly to add a sense of separation and depth to a shared garden or patio. Hang a mirror on a wall or fence to reflect greenery and create the illusion of a larger, more secluded space. Mirrored panels can help make smaller areas feel more open and intimate at the same time.
Choose outdoor-safe mirrors designed to withstand the elements, and position them to reflect the most appealing parts of your garden. This trick not only adds depth but also enhances your garden’s natural beauty, creating an interesting focal point.
10. String Lights to Define Private Zones
Lighting is an easy way to establish distinct areas in a shared space, especially for evening gatherings. String lights, lanterns, or solar path lights can be arranged to illuminate specific zones, drawing attention to certain parts of the garden and creating a cosy, secluded feel.
Using soft, warm lights can make your seating area feel more private and inviting, while the glow will help establish boundaries without physical dividers. Opt for energy-efficient, solar-powered lights for an eco-friendly, budget-friendly option that adds ambiance and charm.
Final Thoughts
Dividing a shared outdoor space doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. With decorative screens, planters, outdoor rugs, and other creative solutions, you can create distinct areas that offer privacy while enhancing your garden’s look and feel. Whether you prefer a minimalist or more lush, green aesthetic, these ideas can help you design a stylishly divided space that feels uniquely yours. Enjoy transforming your garden or patio into a welcoming retreat that’s perfect for relaxation and socialising.