Chalkboard walls, bubbled acrylic and perforated copper may not be the first fencing materials homeowners consider, but these bold choices add distinct curb appeal and style to this outdoor necessity. If updating your fence is on your summer to-do list, consider a unique approach. Beyond picket fences and simple wooden slats lies an array of interesting choices and unexpected applications.

Get inspired by the next 10 photos to start reimagining your backyard fence. Zeterre Landscape Architecture Simple wooden planks take on new personality when installed at different heights on a slight curve. Accent your fence with interesting materials. A chalkboard incorporated into the fence will make the yard all the more imaginative and engaging for the kids. And water is all it takes to keep it clean. Randy Thueme Design Inc. - Landscape Architecture OK, so this fence doesn’t provide much privacy, but it does create a protective barrier around the pool from curious little ones. Made from bubbled acrylic balls, the fence lends an unexpected sophisticated appeal. Jeffrey Gordon Smith Landscape Architecture Outdoor stone surrounds are nothing new, but this fence — created from piles of stone corralled with metal baskets called gabions — feels sculptural and industrial. Randy Thueme Design Inc. - Landscape Architecture Think about mixing elements instead of creating a fence from one material. The perforated copper in this fence catches the eye with its metallic hue, while the wood keeps it from feeling over the top. debora carl landscape design In this example, a wall fence is split with several vertical rods. This solution is ideal if you want to have some privacy without blocking a view. WA Design Architects A fence can be much more than simple wooden slats. Go glam with a stone fence and metal gate combination, like this modern, statement-making example.

More great gates debora carl landscape design Instead of building the entire fence at one uniform height, consider different heights in different spots. Go higher where you want to block a neighbor’s view, but go lower where you might catch a better glimpse of an evening sunset. David Lauer Photography Change up your wooden fence by reversing the direction of the planks. It’s an easy preinstallation design switch that lends a fresh look. Shades Of Green Landscape Architecture Are you bored with your wooden fence, but don’t necessarily want to start from scratch? Dress it up with metal panels to make your fence an interesting focal point instead of just a functional asset.