One of the most common requests we hear during outdoor kitchen consultations: “I want to enjoy this space without my neighbors looking right at me.” Privacy is a real concern in suburban Tulsa metro neighborhoods where lots are close together. Here are the most effective privacy solutions we integrate into outdoor kitchen designs.

Masonry Privacy Walls

The most permanent and highest-quality privacy solution is a built masonry privacy wall adjacent to or as part of the outdoor kitchen structure. Using the same CMU and stone veneer as the kitchen island, a privacy wall can be integrated into the outdoor kitchen design as a natural extension of the overall structure.

Privacy walls can be built to whatever height your setback requirements and HOA permit — typically 6 to 8 feet is sufficient to provide cooking-area privacy from adjacent properties. Adding a decorative cap stone and finishing with matching veneer creates a cohesive, finished look.

Cedar Privacy Screen Panels

Cedar privacy screen panels — either solid board-on-board or horizontal slat style — can be mounted between pergola posts or on independent posts to create a privacy screen without full masonry construction. Cedar screens add a natural, warm aesthetic and can be stained to match the pergola structure.

Horizontal slat screens have become particularly popular because they provide privacy while allowing air circulation and filtered light — ideal for Oklahoma’s outdoor climate where airflow matters.

Landscape Privacy Screening

Strategic planting of fast-growing privacy hedges and ornamental grasses adjacent to the outdoor kitchen area can provide excellent screening within two to three seasons:

• Emerald green arborvitae — fast-growing, columnar, and very popular in Oklahoma for privacy screening. Mature at 3-4′ wide, 10-15′ tall, without taking over the yard.
• Nellie Stevens holly — dense evergreen, Oklahoma native-adapted, grows 8-15′ tall and tolerates our climate well
• Ornamental grasses (Maiden Grass, Pampas) — tall, dramatic, fast-growing. Adds movement and texture rather than a rigid screen. Pairs beautifully with outdoor kitchen landscapes.
• Bamboo (clumping varieties only) — fast privacy screening, but always use clumping bamboo — running bamboo spreads aggressively and becomes a nuisance

Pergola Curtains and Outdoor Fabric Panels

Outdoor-rated fabric curtains hung from pergola posts or a track system provide flexible privacy that can be opened when you want the view and closed when you want seclusion. Solution-dyed acrylic fabrics (Sunbrella and similar) hold up to Oklahoma sun and weather. This is the most affordable privacy solution and adds a sophisticated, resort-like feel to the outdoor kitchen space.

VistaScapes incorporates privacy solutions into every outdoor kitchen design. Call 918-779-1317 to discuss what would work best for your property.