The Spruce / Erica George

When creating abeautiful outdoor space, you often start with an empty space.

Meet the Expert

Want more design inspiration?

But Graffam gave us another great suggestion: look for planters that are multi-functional.

Convertible covered hot tub deck

The Spruce / Erica George

Garden hoses are always necessary, but not exactly easy on the eyes, he says.

Consider a planter that also houses and rolls the garden hose to conceal it from view.

This can be used to cover other things, too.

Pole bean vines with small red flowers covering wooden arbor

The Spruce / Randi Rhoades

In this case, it might be time to use fencing.

If you do that, Casazza strongly advises keeping it low, no higher than 6 above the condenser.

Chain link fencing, for example, is especially unsightly.

A backyard with distressed planters

Mindy Gayer

Luckily, Casazza has a great solution.

Thanks to the design, she says chain-link fences are actually the perfect placeto plant vines.

She personally suggests the hardy, evergreen Star Jasmine.

Horizontal fencing used in a back yard to create a private retreat

The Spruce / Jacob Fox

Build a Birdhouse

@s.u.s.a.p.

/ Instagram

Some eyesoresare smaller but that doesnt make them any less painful to look at.

Wood panels secured against a chain link fence

The Spruce / Jacob Fox

backyard fountain ideas

Design byEmily Henderson/ Styling by Emily Bowser / Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp and Veronica Crawford

Patio area with wooden fence and plants

@s.u.s.a.p. / Instagram