If you live on one of your town’s busiest streets, you are sure to know that there are pros and cons to being a homeowner in a crowded area. One of the perks is that you can easily get anywhere you need to go because you’re already on the main thoroughfare. A negative aspect, though, is that you rarely have any privacy when you’re outside because traffic is constantly streaming past your residence.
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do in your front yard to alleviate some of the annoyances that are part and parcel with living in a busy area. As you continue reading here, you will discover what some of these ideas are. Hopefully, this guide will help you and your family enjoy your outdoor space more in the months and years to come.
Create a courtyard with a water feature
If your North Carolina or South Carolina city doesn’t have codes against it, blocking your view of the street in front of your home with a fenced-in courtyard is a great idea. Even if your municipality does have regulations about how high fences can be, you may still be able to build the tallest fence you’re allowed to in your front yard; this will provide you more privacy than you had before.
If you do opt to go the courtyard route, including a water feature is a great idea. The sound of the running water will drown out much offending traffic noise, allowing you and your family to relax more easily in your front yard space.
Use plants to form a screen
If you’re unable to build a fence because of local codes or if you just don’t want a large fence hiding your house, using plants to create a natural screen is a great alternative. For homeowners throughout the coastal Carolinas, palm trees and other tropical plants add a beachy, relaxed touch. For those who reside in the mountains of North Carolina, however, coniferous trees and bushes that will stay green through wintertime are a great choice. Don’t hesitate to talk to a professional if you need help selecting the right plants for your yard!
Freestanding walls
Wall panels, staggered to create a walkway, can create a barrier between your house and a busy street without completely blocking passersby from seeing your abode. They are an especially good choice for people whose homes sit on hills, as the walls can be made different heights to add visual interest.
One of the best things about using wall panels is that your imagination truly only limits you. You can create them from just about any material, including frosted glass for super contemporary houses or brick for traditional homes, and they can have any other features you desire, including bench seats or cascading fountains.
If you are interested in any of these options, or in another way to create some privacy for your family on your busy road, contact the team at Hatch Homes. We would love to help you regain some peace and quiet, no matter where in the Carolinas you live! We work with homeowners throughout the region regularly and look forward to meeting you soon.