There's nothing quite like stepping out onto your own balcony on a sunny day. For many apartment dwellers, the balcony is a place to escape the daily hustle and bustle. But if you have a balcony with railings, you quickly realize that the boundary between your private space and the outside world is razor-thin. Passersby can easily look in, and neighbors often unintentionally have a clear view of what you're doing. Finding the right solution for balcony screen privacy is therefore one of the most discussed topics among balcony owners. In this article, we discuss how to achieve that desired privacy without losing the open character of your balcony.
The challenge of privacy on a balcony with railings
A balcony has a beautiful, transparent appearance that creates a spacious feeling. The disadvantage, however, is that these same railings offer little protection against curious glances. You sometimes feel a bit 'on display,' which doesn't benefit relaxation. Many people therefore resort to a standard balcony screen for privacy. Although effective, on a railing balcony it often brings practical problems. Think of screens flapping in the wind, unsightly fastenings with zip ties, or the fact that a completely closed screen also completely blocks your view for yourself.
Types of balcony screens and their pros and cons
If you search for balcony screen privacy, you will find a wide range of options. It is important to make a choice that suits the rules of your Homeowners Association (VvE) and the construction of your balcony.
- Textile screens: These polyester cloths are popular because they are relatively inexpensive and come in many colors. They offer immediate full privacy but can give a somewhat 'cooped up' feeling on a railing balcony.
- Natural mats: Reed, bamboo, or willow branches give a warm, natural look. They playfully break the view but can turn gray or fall apart over time due to weather influences.
- Plastic screens: These often resemble natural materials but last longer. However, they are less environmentally friendly and can sometimes retain heat on the balcony in full sun.
The natural way: Privacy through planting
At Vercony, we believe that a balcony screen for privacy doesn't always have to consist of a roll of plastic. One of the most beautiful and effective ways to reduce visibility is by using greenery. Plants soften the harsh lines of metal and concrete and provide a natural filter. This way, you maintain the feeling of freedom, while still sitting sheltered.
Our unique planters are specially designed for this situation. Instead of pots hanging from the railing, which often clutter the field of vision, the Vercony pot stands firmly on the ground. The pot is designed to protrude through the railings. This creates a 'green plinth' at the bottom of your balcony, exactly where people can look up from below. It's a stylish way to take your balcony screen privacy to a higher level.
Why the Vercony pot is the ideal green solution as a balcony screen
When you choose privacy solutions for your balcony, you want it to be safe and durable. Traditional screens that you attach to the railings catch a lot of wind. This can put a significant strain on the construction. The Vercony planter solves this in a smart way:
- Stability on the floor: Because the pot stands on the ground, there is no risk of blowing over or shifting. The center of gravity is low, which is essential at higher altitudes.
- More privacy & less visibility: If you place a few Vercony balcony pots next to each other, you can easily create a green sense of privacy.
- Double-sided greenery: Because the pot protrudes through the railings, you enjoy the greenery on the inside, while passersby see a beautifully planted pot on the outside.
The best plants for a privacy screen
Not all plants are equally suitable to serve as a 'screen'. For optimal balcony screen privacy, you want plants that grow luxuriantly and preferably retain their leaves even in winter. Here are some suggestions that fit perfectly in our balcony pots:
Ivy (Hedera): The absolute favorite. You can easily weave the vines horizontally along the railings. This way, you decide exactly how high you want to make the balcony screen.
Ornamental grasses: Think of varieties such as Carex or Festuca. These grasses remain low and compact but are dense enough to prevent direct visibility. Moreover, they wave cheerfully in the wind.
Cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus): There are dwarf varieties that grow excellent in pots. They have large, shiny leaves that completely block the view.
Lavender: Although less tall, a row of lavender in the Vercony pots creates a visual barrier that also smells wonderful.
Conclusion
Achieving balcony screen privacy on a balcony requires a smart approach. Instead of completely boarding up your balcony with plastic or fabric, the gradual path with greenery offers a much more beautiful result. With the Vercony balcony planters on the ground, you choose a safe, stable, and especially aesthetic solution that transforms your balcony into a private paradise. No more visibility, no hassle with flapping screens, just undisturbed enjoyment of the fresh air among your own plants.
