Wide but narrow garden
Jane376
Posts: 4
lots of garden ideas seem to be based on making the most of long narrow gardens and making areas within the length to create privacy. What about if your garden is as wide as your property but the depth is quite narrow and add to that a public footpath running along the boundary, how then do you create areas of privacy and interest.
any idea's great fully received
0
Posts
Diagonals will make it seem deeper so try a couple of diagonal paths either parellel or in a cross or meeting at the back boundary so you get triangles which can then be used for planting, paving, lawn as you see fit. Build a fence using standard panels which are 6'+1.8m high so people can't peek in.
If you don't want it that geometric, try a similar idea using curved paths and ovals or circles. Play around with ideas on paper then lay out the lines using sand or a hose pipe and look at it all from every angle and upstairs too. Tweak till happy the layout will work.
You can also make it seem deeper by breaking it up into clear sections side by side but with blurred boundaries to fool th eeye. Some ideas here - https://www.successfulgardendesign.com/wide-garden-design-case-study/
"We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing." - George Bernard Shaw
I should also have added that my garden is on two levels so you look down on the main bit so it's really tricky.
Mine is big, but small.
Do you already have a fence/wall/hedge at the boundary Jane? Not sure how much you are overlooked from the footpath.
If you have a patio area closer to the house on the higher level, maybe a trellis for climbers directly beside that area would create some privacy. Fencing height restrictions may make it difficult to completely enclose the garden at street level.
A photo would help us get a better idea of the problem.
As you look at the pic, the footpath is to the left and the higher level to the right. We have beautiful views but would just like some privacy.hope the pic as bad as it is helps to understand my problem.
many thanks
Last edited: 19 December 2016 22:27:55
Changing the fence for solid panels would give you privacy from people on the footpath but you could still see over it to enjoy the views from your raised area and house windows.
Make sue yo use good tall fence posts with about 2' buried in good concrete boots for stability as it looks as though you have strong winds. A cheaper alternative would be to straighten your existing fence and attach windbreak fabric to it. This would leave it porous to the winds but prevent outsiders seeing in.
"We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing." - George Bernard Shaw
I like Obelixx's idea of using windbreak fabric as a permeable screen. More cost effective than replacing the fencing completely, and lower maintenance than if you used climbing plants along the fence which would need regular tying in and pruning.
I'm guessing that the edge of the decking we can see is the seating area? The trellis at the far end, by the greenhouse is the kind of thing I was thinking of initially. Could you have something similar on the footpath side?
Alternatively, a pergola erected over the decking might give a more private and enclosed space feeling without casting too much shade. Depending on your budget, you can buy them in kit form, or if you're handy do a diy job.
I have a small square garden and am trying to include more "vertical gardening" using trellis/arch/obelix space. Still learning
. I won't attempt to suggest plants, I'll leave that to the experts.
yes your correct there is a shed and small seating area however the fence beyond the greenhouse is 2m tall but because of a raised area in neighbouring garden, anyone over 1m tall can see straight over so it's quite tricky.
I have to admit to being envious of those gardens where every corner you find something different. I liken my garden to be like someone has taken the side off and you can see all the areas at once. Thinking hat back on, thankyou for your help and advice.