Q&A
Best of Home & Garden · July 12, 2024
Urban gardening experts, including an Arborist and a Director, reveal their secrets to crafting secluded green spaces amidst the bustle of city life. From 'Strategic Planting for Lush Privacy' to 'Combining Plants and Structures for Seclusion', dive into seven insightful strategies that have transformed urban areas into private sanctuaries.
7 gardeners in this bed
Dylan HeathArborist · Apex ArboristsCreating privacy in an urban garden involves strategic plant selection and using structures to block views effectively. Fast-growing trees like bamboo or Leyland cypress, and dense hedges like boxwood, can form natural barriers. Incorporating trellises with climbing plants like clematis or ivy adds vertical privacy. For instance, in a recent project, we transformed a city garden by planting bamboo along the fence line and adding trellises with climbing roses. This approach created a lush, private oasis that shielded the client from neighboring views, enhancing their outdoor living experience.
Mike DrouinCo-founder, Digital Marketing Director, Gardening & Home Improvement Expert · ReefertilizerTo create privacy in an urban garden, I focus on using a combination of vertical elements and dense planting. I integrate trellises, pergolas, and living walls into the design, covered with climbing plants like ivy or jasmine to create natural barriers. For a successful project, I transformed a small balcony into a secluded oasis by installing bamboo screens and growing compact, bushy plants such as boxwood and lavender in layered containers. This not only provided privacy but also added a lush, green ambiance. Implementing fast-growing bamboo in large planters was another crucial element, giving an immediate screen while maintaining a tranquil aesthetic. My advice is to use a variety of textures and heights to add depth and interest to your garden while ensuring your privacy.
Luke BeermanOwner · Freedom Fence FLPrivacy in an urban garden is all about the clever use of space and materials. Start with layered planting – tall shrubs, trees, and lower plants can create a natural, green barrier. Add in some fencing or trellises with climbing plants like ivy or jasmine for extra coverage. Don't forget to incorporate screens or pergolas for a stylish touch. One of my favorite projects was transforming a small city backyard using bamboo screens and lush greenery. It created a cozy, secluded oasis right in the middle of the hustle and bustle.
Andrei NewmanFounder · Designer Home SpasCreating privacy in an urban garden often involves clever use of vertical space, since horizontal space can be limited. One of the most effective solutions is using vertical greenery, like trellises or living walls. These structures allow you to grow climbing plants or even create a green wall, which not only ensures privacy but also adds a lush, vibrant look to your garden.
For instance, in a recent project in downtown Miami, we installed trellises along the perimeter of a small urban garden. We selected fast-growing plants like jasmine and ivy to cover the trellises quickly. This not only blocked the view from neighboring buildings but also provided a fragrant and visually appealing environment. The use of vertical greenery transformed a once exposed area into a private oasis, demonstrating how strategic plant placement can enhance both privacy and aesthetics.
Josh PayneOwner · Classic LandscapeAs the owner of a landscaping company, I frequently tackle the challenge of creating private, secluded spaces in exposed city environments. For an urban garden in downtown Edmonton, the client wanted an oasis feel, but the space was fully visible from surrounding office towers. We installed cedar lattice panels around the garden and planted fast-growing clematis vines to create a living wall. Within months, the foliage formed an 8-foot privacy screen.
We also added wood pergolas, which we accentuated with hanging wisteria. The vertical greenery and structures transformed the exposed rooftop into an intimate garden retreat. The key was using natural materials that would age well in an exposed setting, as well as planning the layout and plantings strategically based on the sightlines from surrounding buildings.
For a courtyard garden, we took a collaborative approach with the building owners and residents. Each resident was responsible for a section of fencing and greenery along the shared courtyard. They could design and plant their section however they chose. The result was an eclectic, whimsical barrier that gave the space a secluded feel. By engaging the users, we turned a practical need into an opportunity for community building.
Giovanni ScippoDirector · 3D LinesCreating privacy in an urban garden can be tricky, but it's totally doable with the right approach. At 3D Lines, we often use bamboo fencing, freestanding screens, and smart lighting to make a cozy and private space.
In a recent project, we combined all three elements to turn a private residential home's garden into a secluded retreat. We started with bamboo fencing, which provided a natural and sturdy barrier around the garden. This immediately made the space feel more secluded and fit in perfectly with the plants.
Next, we added freestanding screens in key spots to give extra privacy and flexibility. These decorative metal screens helped separate different parts of the garden, like the seating area and the vegetable patch, while adding a stylish touch.
Lastly, we used strategic lighting to create the right mood. We placed low-level lights along the pathways and highlighted some plants, which made the whole area feel cozy. The seating area was softly lit, making it inviting and private, while other areas remained in shadow.
Mahnoor MansurMarketing Manager · Arborist NZWe approach the challenge of creating privacy in an urban garden by combining strategic plantings, structures, and design elements. For instance, in a recent project, we created a private oasis for a client by planting a mix of fast-growing trees and tall shrubs along the perimeter of their garden. We also installed a decorative wooden fence with climbing plants to add an extra layer of seclusion. Additionally, we incorporated vertical gardens and trellises with lush, trailing vines to soften the hardscapes and enhance the sense of privacy. This combination provided effective screening from neighboring properties and added aesthetic appeal, transforming the small urban space into a serene, private retreat. The client was thrilled with the results, enjoying a peaceful garden sanctuary in the middle of the city.
With the right combination of hardscape, foliage, and community engagement, even exposed urban spaces can be transformed. The key is assessing the constraints, understanding the users' needs, and developing custom solutions that balance privacy, aesthetics, and shared functionality.
