Especially in multi-party houses, living with neighbors in the summer can often be much closer than many balcony enthusiasts would like. Even with great friendships, it can become annoying if your neighbors can observe your every step onto the balcony. A privacy screen is needed, but of course, it should also match the house so that not only you are happy, but your landlord is too.

For this purpose, there are special balcony privacy screens available commercially that cover your balcony on the sides. Standard models are fan-like constructions where a canvas can conveniently be folded open and closed. Room dividers (paravents) and special balcony roller blinds can also quickly and attractively ward off curious glances. A piece of awning fabric stretched into a suitable frame can offer the same benefit in a cost-effective and simple way.

You can achieve the same benefit with a self-made privacy screen. To do this, fill one or more window boxes with plaster or concrete and insert bamboo poles, wooden slats, metal rods, or similar materials into the still-wet mixture. After it hardens, add a nice layer of pebbles, glass beads, or lava granules to the window box, and you'll have a decorative, windproof, and attractive privacy screen.

If you prefer a helping hand from Mother Nature, you can also plant climbing plants like passion fruit, clematis, Black-eyed Susan, scarlet runner bean, or another magnificent and easy-to-care-for variety in window boxes or other planters.

No matter which side privacy screen you choose, make sure the colors and style harmonize with your house. It's better to select colors that belong to the same color family as the facade, even if it means foregoing a trendy color. It's best to avoid wild patterns and strong contrasts to maintain the harmonious overall impression of the house.

If your problem is more from above, or you urgently need shade from relentless sunbeams, installing an awning makes sense. And if you primarily feel bothered by passersby, take a look at the various products available to make your balcony railing opaque. There's a huge selection, from awning fabric strips woven into the railing grids, to mats made of woven branches and grasses, to privacy mats that resemble artificial turf and thus imitate natural growth.