Photo: Benn & Penna Architecture/Houzz Author: Laura Venuto
We have a slight issue in the small apartment block where we live. The ground-floor apartments are completely open to prying eyes. Not that anyone means to pry. But as we walk up the path to get to our front door, we can see straight in. Whether the occupants are sitting out the front reading the paper, watching TV in their undies on the sofa, cooking a curry for dinner, or going to bed, we can’t help but see them. And I’m never actually sure whether it’s more rude to interrupt them by saying hello or simply pretend that I can’t see them as I’m walking past. Obviously, it’s not just an issue for me. For these occupants, and anyone else in a similar situation, what is otherwise a light and bright apartment with quite a nice view could quickly become dark and claustrophobic if they have to permanently keep the curtains drawn. So, if you face a similar dilemma, here are some ways to maintain your privacy while still keeping your space light and bright and, most importantly, stylish.
Slatted moveable panels
A series of slatted external privacy screens, such as the ones on the inner-city Sydney home above, allow the upstairs rooms, including the master bedroom, to be totally shielded from view while still letting in ample light through the slats.
The moveable panels not only slide but offer the flexibility of opening out to let in more fresh air and sunshine if and when desired.
Photo: Shannon McGrath/Chan Architecture Pty LtdVertical panels
These offer total privacy when closed, but afford a great deal of flexibility, allowing you to open one, some or all of the panels to let in light and air.
These panels have been installed at the edge of the balcony, while inside, sheer curtains have also been incorporated, once again adding even greater versatility for meeting your exact privacy needs.
Photo: Simon Whitbread/Watershed DesignPermanently angled slats
These work well in indoor/outdoor rooms when you need a fair amount of light, but wish to shield the area from a nearby building. They add interest and beauty to the space, the only downside being that they’re fixed, so you have to be sure you’ll be happy with the amount of light and air they allow through.
Search local window professionals
Photo: Devine Homes/Landscape And Architectural Design Products PLLaser-cut screens
Often used in garden areas, laser-cut screens can look beautiful, dainty and elegant added to the home on a verandah, particularly when in white, as pictured. Such screens not only allow light in, but also some of the colours and textures from the outside world, helping to limit that feeling of being closed in. The beautiful pattern also ensures the screen becomes a feature of the space, despite ultimately being a functional element.
Be inspired by more laser-cut screens
Photo: Ben Hosking/Rebecca Naughtin ArchitectFrosted glass
Rather than a whole wall of frosted glass, consider installing panels at an angle, as has been done in the bathroom of this contemporary Melbourne home. It still provides enough privacy to feel comfortable walking around in your birthday suit, but also lets in more light than a full wall of frosted glass would.
Stained glass
Instead of plain frosted glass, you could also consider stained glass. Generally, this style will be more suited to period homes, although it is possible to find more modern versions that would suit contemporary homes, too.
Glass bricks
These work well in spaces where you need privacy and want to let in light, but don’t necessarily need to see out to the view, or require ventilation.
Depending on how you choose to install them, glass bricks can become a feature in their own right.
More: Lighten and Brighten Your Home With Glass Bricks
Green screens
Using vegetation as a shield can be a wonderful way to boost the privacy of your home while also beautifying your space. Plants can be used to great effect inside the house, too.
Sheer curtains
If you are going with curtains for your window coverings, consider adding a sheer layer underneath as it will give you much greater flexibility to deal with your changing privacy requirements – you can use the sheers during the day as required and the heavier curtains at night.
Sheer blinds
If you are going for a more contemporary look, you still have the option of a sheer covering without going down the curtain route. Sheer blinds still let in ample light while shielding you from nearby neighbours as needed. If you desire greater privacy at night, there are companies that offer blinds with alternating strips of sheer and blockout fabric (creating a slat-like effect), and others that offer two blinds in one – sheer for day and blockout for night.
Find retailers of shutters, blinds and curtains
Well-placed windows
Adding a fairly narrow window at a height lets the light in while also minimising the amount of your interior that’s on view to others.
Even at lower height, a very narrow window can be a good option if you don’t have people regularly walking past and don’t need full privacy.