From sculptural wrought iron to rustic timber designs, there’s a plethora of choice.

We’ve all seen stone lions on pillar tops guarding the gates of small suburban semis.  Not to everyone’s taste perhaps but reflecting the owner’s personality and style.  It may seem a relatively small decision but your choice of wall or fence and gate can have a big effect on the look of your home. Like the front door, it creates the first impression of what to expect in your home.  

Architecturally appropriate style

There’s a fence or wall that will enhance your home, no matter what architectural style it has.  Minimalist homes are all about stream-lined architecture, so steer clear of anything that’s too ornate or heavy. Horizontally slatted cedar fencing can work well for these homes. Decide if you want it see-through or solid. Black steel slats with white concrete pillars are a popular combination - tough-looking, sleek and ultra-modern.

Pretty picket fences look idyllic surrounding country cottages and are a firm favourite in urban areas too. Meanwhile period properties, such as Victorian houses, look best with low brick walls and/or ornamental wrought iron metal fences. For increased privacy grow a hedge behind the garden wall or rails.

Go green

Create a country vibe with a woven hurdle fencing made from willow or hazel. Framed willow fencing can complement both traditional and contemporary homes. Budget-friendly and super flexible, woven hurdle fencing  comes in multiple shapes – curved, flat top, concave/convex, arched – and styles, including horizontal and vertical panelling with different choice of colours to suit your garden design.  Both standard and bespoke handcrafted willow gates and fences are available. Suppliers include Winterbourne Willows.

Image supplied by Winterbourne Willows 

Wrought iron railings

Wrought iron railings are another garden fence idea. They have a classic style and can create an elegant entrance. Strong and durable, they create a boundary and look impressive from a security point of view but without blocking views of the home. A key decision is whether gates should be automated or not. Wrought iron gates can be combined with high quality motorisation units. However, any cabling or foundation boxes must be in place before a new driveway is laid. In addition, any stone or brick piers must be strong enough to support heavy iron gates.

What’s the main purpose of your fence?

Before you pick a design or material consider why you need a fence. If it’s only to mark out your external space, a simple low chain and post may do the job. A solid timber fence or brick wall will be better if you want to enclose your garden to keep kids and dogs in. If security is your main concern, then a taller garden fence is best but one without horizontal rails an intruder can attempt to climb. Make sure to pick a matching sturdy and lockable gate. A trellis topper is a great way to add height and privacy to your garden.  It’s always best to consider what you want a fence or wall to do before you decide how it should look. Remember form follows function.

Gate expectations

A gate’s main purpose may be practical but that doesn’t mean it needs to be plain and boring. This handsome driveway gate was designed to create an impressive entrance to a refurbished large house and garden beyond in the countryside. The detailing of gates, fences and walls can really elevate the exterior of your home, adding interest and character. It’s easy to miss a trick and opt for a mass-produced product when a custom-made version may not cost a lot more. If you have an architect on board, he or she can come up with a one-off design and find a local craftsman to make it.

Image supplied by architect Scot Masker

Hidden fence and gate

If you have a big budget, consider super-cool retractable gates and fences that disappear into the ground when opened. Instead of swinging in or out, the vertical steel slats slide underground. The gate leaf and driving mechanism are in a sealed reinforced concrete vault under the ground.  As the gate leaf travels vertically, there is no need to level the ground around it. These gates need a specialised and fully trained installation team – so you will need deep pockets.  Suppliers include Fancy Fence.

Boundary law

Be aware there are laws regarding the maximum height of gates, fences and walls. Planning permission will be required for fences over one metre in height next to road or footpath. But boundary walls over two metres in height are allowed if they don’t face a highway. These permitted development rights don’t apply, however, if you live in a listed building, conservation area, national park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). It’s always worth first checking what’s allowed with your local planning authority. If you’re not sure who is responsible for a wall or fence, look at the title deeds to your property.

A gorgeous garden gate and fence can boost your home’s kerb appeal as well as provide privacy and security. It’s worth taking your time to pick the right style and materials.