In the vibrant seasons of spring and summer, the allure of outdoor spaces becomes undeniable, especially for urban dwellers craving a sanctuary amid the hustle. Greg Navage, a dedicated DIYer (@thenavagepatch), along with his wife Handan, seized the opportunity to transform their modest patio. What once stood as a “tiny patch of concrete” evolved into a sprawling 1,200-square-foot canvas of possibilities in 2022. Despite the addition of a pergola and a gazebo, the space yearned for a finishing touch to instill a sense of completion.
Crafting Privacy and Coziness
The pivotal element missing from the expanded patio was a touch of coziness and seclusion. Greg, recognizing the need for a solution, envisioned a privacy screen to define and enhance the space. Drawing inspiration from a previous project that concealed his HVAC unit, Greg embarked on the creation of a sophisticated yet inviting privacy screen. Holes were meticulously dug for four 4×4 posts, later fortified with poured cement to ensure stability. Greg, having discovered the efficiency of a powered auger, streamlined the process for subsequent installations.
Aesthetic and Functional Design
The privacy screens materialized through the integration of 2×6 cedar boards with channels accommodating reed partitions. Each screen incorporated two cedar boards, securing a reed screen between adjacent posts. Greg’s craftsmanship extended to priming and painting the posts in a sleek black finish, harmonizing with the natural allure of cedar. The crowning touch involved the addition of solar-powered lights, infusing a touch of sophistication and warmth. Greg attests, “The privacy screen looks rich and luxurious while still being cozy and inviting.”
Budget-Friendly Elegance
Remarkably, the transformation into this elegant enclave came at a surprisingly modest cost of around $200. Greg’s keen awareness of the screens’ natural lifespan led to a thoughtful approach. The cedar boards, serving as a primary component, offer ease of removal, ensuring effortless replacement of the reed screen. Greg underscores the accessibility of this DIY endeavor, stating, “With an auger for the holes, this is actually a very easy DIY that anyone should be able to tackle.”
An Inviting Retreat
In the realm of outdoor transformations, Greg Navage’s project stands as a testament to the impact of thoughtful design and resourceful execution. The once bare patio now emerges as a cozy, private retreat, inviting individuals to bask in the beauty of outdoor living. As the sun sets and the solar-powered lights illuminate, this $200 masterpiece encapsulates the essence of affordable elegance and DIY ingenuity.
