My neighbours turned their garden shed into a nail shop – it overlooks us & our privacy fence doesn’t block it out
A WOMAN has shared her woes after her neighbours turned their garden shed into a busy nail salon that overlooks her shower.
Kris Te, from London, took to Facebook to seek help, explaining that at first they didn’t mind the ”summer house”, as it was ”within their garden”.
”However, shortly a window appeared overlooking our garden,” she shared in the post.
”And this is not just a summer house. It is a NAIL salon.”
According to the woman, the shed is fill of beauty buffs getting their mani done ”every evening”.
”I know people can have business in their sheds etc and I also don’t mind what they are doing there but I mind that window!
”It not only overlooks our garden but our kitchen and downstairs shower too!”
Kris went on to express her sheer frustration and how their dreams of having a lovely home turned into a living nightmare.
”What we thought a lovely house in a cul-de-sac turning to be a nightmare living on a high street.”
Although Kris described the people living next door as ”nice people”, this is allegedly not the first time she’s had problems with them.
Last summer, she claimed, they damaged the fence by spraying their fence through the gaps whilst Kris and her family were on holiday – and the troubles didn’t end there.
”Last week they were drilling into our extension to put through electric to their summer house.
”I got trellis but that is not going to give enough of privacy from all the strangers coming in every day.”
The never-ending issues and she shed overlooking Kris’ shower has affected her sleep and triggered anxiety – and now the family is even thinking of finding a new place to live.
”It is affecting my wellbeing so much so that we are considering selling our first home that we were saving for so long and moving out.
”I feel like I can no longer use my garden since this was built.
”Every time I’m there I feel like I’m in their space,” the mum said.
How to create privacy in your garden
CREATING privacy in your garden can be achieved in a number of ways depending on your budget, and the size of your space. Here are some effective ways to enhance privacy in your garden:
1. Fencing
- Install a tall, solid wooden or vinyl fence. This is one of the most straightforward ways to gain immediate privacy. Or use lattice panels, trellis, or slatted fencing to add a decorative touch while still offering privacy.
2. Hedges and Plants
- Fast-growing evergreen shrubs or trees like Leylandii, Thuja, or Bamboo along the boundary of your garden can help with privacy. Grow a dense hedge using plants like Boxwood, Privet, or Laurel. It may take time to grow, but it provides a natural and green privacy screen. Use climbers like Ivy, Clematis, or Wisteria on fences or trellises to create a lush, green privacy barrier.
3. Outdoor Curtains
- Hang outdoor curtains around pergolas, gazebos, or patios for an easy-to-adjust privacy solution.
4. Sound Barriers
- A water fountain or small waterfall can help drown out noise, adding to the sense of privacy. Or install fencing designed to reduce noise if privacy from sound is also a concern.
‘My kids stopped using the garden too. Garden was main reason why we moved from flat to house.”
Seeking help and advice, Kris asked fellow social media users on the DIY On a Budget page on how to tackle the situation – without having to speak to the neighbours.
One advised Kris to live her life to the max and simply ”forget” about the nail shop business next door.
”Personally I would put up a trellis, use your garden, have bonfires, play music, put your kids on the trampoline, get a winter gazebo, invite your friends, live life to the full and basically be happy.”
Someone else said: ”So as not to fall out with your neighbours try asking them to install blinds or curtains or even move the window.
”Don’t involve the council as that will spoil your relationship with you neighbours.”
A third thought: ”It is annoying but … the window eye level is above the high fence.
”No one could see you unless on a ladder? I would try to reset your mind.”