Your deck or screened porch should be more than a place to grill or sit—it should feel like a true retreat. A private space. A quiet escape. A room without walls that still gives you comfort, protection, and peace of mind.

At Design Builders, we specialize in high-end outdoor living spaces that blend beauty with function. One of the most common goals we hear from homeowners? “We want privacy without feeling boxed in.” And it’s absolutely doable—with the right design. Here are some of our favorite ways to create privacy and serenity in your outdoor spaces.

🌿 1. Strategic Landscaping for Natural Screening

Sometimes the best privacy doesn’t come from structures—it comes from nature. Thoughtful landscaping can create soft, organic boundaries that protect your space from view while adding beauty.

Ideas we love:

• Layered plantings with evergreens, grasses, and flowering shrubs

• Vertical gardens or privacy hedges (like arborvitae or bamboo)

• Custom planter boxes with tall, seasonal foliage

• Living walls that double as green design elements

Bonus: Plants absorb sound, reduce wind, and enhance the “retreat” vibe.

🪵 2. Integrated Screens & Panels

One of the simplest and most stylish ways to block sightlines is with privacy screens, which can be added to any part of your deck or porch.

Design options include:

• Slatted wood or metal panels

• Decorative laser-cut aluminum screens

• Motorized retractable screens (for porches and patios)

• Adjustable louver systems that open or close for light and airflow

Screens give you privacy without fully enclosing the space—perfect for maintaining that airy, outdoor feel.

🏞️ 3. Use Elevation to Your Advantage

Got a sloped yard or a second-story deck? Use it to your benefit. Elevated decks often feel more private simply because they sit above sightlines. But we can take it even further.

Design Builders privacy tips for elevated decks:

• Add custom railing inserts (like frosted glass or horizontal wood slats)

• Position seating away from exposed edges

• Use pergolas or partial roof extensions to block angles of visibility

• Orient the layout for the best sun and view while avoiding neighbor sightlines

With elevation, it’s all about smart positioning and creative boundaries.

🏡 4. Pergolas: Shade, Structure & Shelter

A pergola adds more than shade—it creates a defined ceiling that helps a deck or porch feel like an outdoor room. It also allows for drapes, climbing vines, or privacy curtains to be added easily.

We’ve designed pergolas with:

• Adjustable louvers for customizable light

• Integrated lighting and fans

• Retractable canopies or drapery for privacy and weather protection

They’re a go-to solution for clients who want elegance and function.

✨ Build Your Escape—Without Leaving Home

Your backyard should be a sanctuary, not a stage. Whether you’re sipping coffee on a quiet morning or hosting an evening gathering, privacy is key to creating a relaxing experience.

At Design Builders, we’ll help you design a space that protects your peace—without sacrificing beauty.

📞 Call 301-875-2781 or 📧 email tim@designbuildersmd.com to schedule your design consultation today.