There's nothing quite like stepping outside onto your own balcony on a sunny day. For many apartment dwellers, a balcony is the place where they can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But if you have a balcony with bars, you'll quickly realize that the boundary between your private space and the outside world is razor-thin. Passersby can easily peek in, and your neighbors often have an unwelcome view of what you're doing. Finding the right balcony privacy screen solution is therefore one of the most discussed topics among balcony owners. In this article, we'll discuss how to achieve that desired privacy without sacrificing the open character of your balcony.

The challenge of privacy on a balcony with bars

A slatted balcony has a beautiful, transparent appearance that creates a sense of space. The downside, however, is that these same slats offer little protection from prying eyes. You sometimes feel a bit like you're on display, which doesn't exactly detract from your relaxation. Many people therefore opt for a standard balcony screen for privacy . While this is effective, it often comes with practical problems on a slatted balcony. Think of screens that flap in the wind, unsightly tie-wraps, or the fact that a fully closed screen completely blocks your view.

Types of balcony screens and their advantages and disadvantages

If you search for balcony privacy screens , you'll find a wide range of options. It's important to choose one that complies with the rules of your Homeowners' Association (VvE) and the construction of your balcony.

• Fabric screens: These polyester screens are popular because they're relatively inexpensive and available in a wide range of colors. They offer complete privacy immediately, but can create a somewhat enclosed feeling on a balcony with slats.
• Natural mats: Reed, bamboo, or wicker create a warm, natural look. They playfully break up the view, but can turn gray over time or disintegrate due to weathering.
• 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 be a roll of plastic. One of the most beautiful and effective ways to reduce prying eyes is through the use of greenery. Plants soften the harsh lines of the metal and concrete and provide a natural filter. This allows you to maintain a sense of freedom while still being sheltered.

Our unique planters are specially designed for this situation. Instead of hanging from railings, which often clutter the view, the Vercony planter sits securely on the ground. The planter is designed to extend outward through the bars. This creates a "green skirting board" at the bottom of your balcony, right where people can look up from below. It's a stylish way to take your balcony privacy to the next level.

Why the Vercony bin is the ideal solution

When choosing privacy solutions for your balcony, you want them to be safe and durable. Traditional screens that are attached to the bars catch a lot of wind, which can place a significant load on the structure. The Vercony planter solves this problem cleverly:

• Stability on the ground: Because the box stands on the ground, there's no risk of it tipping over or sliding. The center of gravity is low, which is essential at higher altitudes.
• No damage to the bars: You don't need to screw or clamp anything to the railing's paintwork, which prevents scratches and rust.
• Double-sided greenery: Because the planter extends through the bars, you can enjoy the greenery on the inside, while passersby see a beautiful, overgrown planter on the outside.

The best plants for a privacy screen

Not all plants are equally suitable for use as a screen. For optimal balcony privacy , you want plants that grow lushly and preferably retain their leaves even in winter. Here are some suggestions that work perfectly in our walk-through planters:

• Ivy (Hedera): An absolute favorite. You can easily weave the tendrils horizontally along the posts. This way, you can determine exactly how high you want the screen to be.
• Ornamental grasses: Consider varieties like Carex or Festuca. These grasses stay low and compact, but are dense enough to prevent direct view. They also sway pleasantly in the breeze.
• Cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus): There are dwarf varieties that grow well in containers. They have large, glossy leaves that completely block the view.
• Lavender: Although shorter, a row of lavender in the Vercony containers creates a visual barrier that also smells wonderful.

Conclusion

Creating privacy screens on a slatted balcony requires a smart approach. Instead of completely enclosing your balcony with plastic or canvas, a gradual approach with greenery offers a much more attractive result. With Vercony ground-mounted planters, you choose a safe, stable, and above all, aesthetically pleasing solution that transforms your balcony into a private paradise. No more prying eyes, no more hassle with flapping screens, just undisturbed enjoyment of the outdoors among your own plants.