Many of us long for the weekends or summers at the cottage as a way for us to unwind and get away from the world, having the cottage be our own private retreat.
However, sometimes cottage country isn’t always as secluded as we might like, especially if your cottage is prone to seasonal tourists or neighbours that are situated a little closer than you might like.
While there are many private and exclusive retreats available out there, such as these cottages for sale on Lake Muskoka, there are also options out there to make your current cottage more secluded. Here are four ways to make your property more private.
Fencing
Fences around the perimeter of your property are the most standard and straightforward way to give your property and home the privacy you desire. While you might opt for tall and solid walls of solid wood for maximum privacy, you could also consider more lightweight options such as a lattice fence.
A lattice fence is built with square or diamond shape spacings that can allow for airflow and sunlight to pass through them to allow you to stay connected with nature that makes your home look beautiful.
Lattice fences also make the perfect frames for growing vines and other plant life if you’re looking to add extra green space to your property.
Natural Greenery
If you’re at the cottage, chances are you’re looking to get away from the concrete jungles of city life and reconnect with nature. Fortunately, nature in itself can help provide much-needed privacy. Shrubs, trees, tall flowerbeds, and other landscaping options can help give you the seclusion you desire without sacrificing aesthetics.
If you use your cottage year-round, consider options such as evergreens, which provide optimal coverage during every season. If you’re not in an immediate hurry for privacy, consider purchasing smaller yet fast-growing options to help save yourself some money on otherwise expensive tall greenery. Also, be mindful of any plant life that is known for growing deep and destructive roots, as these vegetations can create problems for underground piping such as septic lines.
Screens and Privacy Panels
If you’re less concerned about fencing off your entire property, but perhaps only a section, consider installing individual panels and screens to give you remote areas of seclusion where you require it at the cottage. For example, you might install a privacy screen around your patio and deck, or even just to one side if you face a neighbour in that direction.
Individual panels can also be installed on the yard of your property to help block off areas such as a hot tub, pool, tanning area, or anywhere else you may want privacy at the cottage.
Indoor Privacy
If the outdoor property is less of your concern versus having others see into your home, there are many options a person can go for more privacy. Windows, shutters, blinds, cabinets, and curtains are all options for blocking one’s windows, however, they may come at the price of at least partially blocking sunlight and views. Alternatively, you can install window films or privacy glass in your home to allow more light at the expense of a clear view out of your windows. These properties are available in a number of different levels of opacity to allow you to customize your privacy in a way that works best for you.
