Privacy is a concept that is recognised as a fundamental human right. In fact, there’s a saying that goes, "without privacy, there is no point in being an individual."
Privacy helps create boundaries that give us the power to choose which parts of our lives we wish to share with others, and to what extent we share them. It gives us the feeling of safety and security that enables us to live freely without ever having to worry about anyone scrutinising and interfering with our lives. Needless to say, privacy matters and it matters most in the place where we want to feel safe and be our authentic selves - our home. Craving more privacy? Here are four simple solutions that are sure to increase the level of privacy in and around your home:
Build a Privacy Fence
Having a privacy fence circle around the perimeter of your home gives a layer of concealment from prying eyes. It also helps define your property line, adds value to your home and, most importantly, keeps you safe from strangers, home intruders, theft, and unwanted animals. The disadvantage is that it gives one the feeling of being contained in an area. It can also be quite expensive and is only usually applicable to homeowners, not renters.
Plant Trees and Shrubs
If installing fences is not your best option because of a limited budget, try planting trees or shrubs instead. They’re an all-natural, oftentimes affordable solution for privacy that also helps enhance the overall appearance of your home! Choose fast-growing ones such as Thuja Green Giant Arborvitae, Leyland Cypress, Boxwood, Bamboo, and Privet. There are many more options out there to choose from; it is up to you to learn which are best suited for your particular region and needs. They’re also great for the environment and help reduce carbon dioxide. Unfortunately, they can invite in unwanted insects and may become high maintenance since plants require care and attention.
Installing Curtains, Blinds, or Shutters
Another simple home privacy solution is curtains, blinds, or shutters. More than just decorative home pieces, these wonderful window treatments help block out sunlight and keep your home cool, while keeping overly curious by-passers from peering into your personal space. Take note that these need to be periodically washed, since curtains, blinds, or shutters tend to accumulate dust and debris over time.
Window Films
Window films are cost-effective privacy window treatments that are so easy to install you can do it yourself in just a few short minutes. Available in a variety of styles to choose from - mirrored, frosted, and tinted - window films can enhance privacy while still letting light into your home. Blackout window films, on the other hand, provide complete two-way privacy and block out virtually all light. Blackout films are recommended for bedrooms and areas that require little to no light, such as bedrooms and nurseries. Here's a guide on how to secure your windows at home.
