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Most of us think about function, material, and not much else when it comes time to add fencing to our yards. But a good fence can also add visual appeal and character to the overall landscape design.
Picket fencing, in particular, often evokes nostalgic scenes of suburbia. However, today’s options can take various forms, many of which are a far cry from the uniform property borders of yesteryear. Keep reading to check out some of our favorite picket fence ideas for the modern home landscape.
1. Pickets on a Curve
Picket fencing is perfect for framing the front of your property to create a welcoming entrance. Here, the homeowner incorporated curves into the fence design for an eye-catching twist. The crisp, white slats are mounted to posts and rails that follow the curvature of the brick walkway. Flower beds filled with colorful shrubs and a natural stone step help to draw the eye toward the front door, further enhancing the home’s curb appeal.
2. Making Waves
For a vintage cottage feel, imperfections are encouraged. The wavy shape of this picket fence carries through from top to bottom, giving it a more organic look than traditional straight fencing. The easiest way to create this wave effect on your picket fence is to use a jigsaw. First, cut waves into the vertical edges of each slat; then, mount them to the horizontal rails. Finally, use a jigsaw to cut waves along the top of the slats.
3. Sleek Slats
If you’re looking for fence ideas for the front yard, here’s a contemporary choice. Picket fences don’t have to be traditional—modern versions made of aluminum look great and add a touch of character to any home. This highly rated kit available at Amazon features prefabricated panels with a repeating wave pattern across the top for interest.
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4. Living Fence With Pickets
A simple picket gate paired with a tall hedge makes for a unique living fence. This one has traditional rounded tops that contrast the squared shape of the greenery. “Don’t forget that wood picket fences will need regular paint or wood stain to keep them looking their best,” says Ryan Ratkowski, owner of Rustic Decorating. “Once a year, give them a quick sand and re-varnish to protect the wood and stop mold or rot from taking hold.”
5. Picture Perfect
Don’t be afraid to add pops of color to your picket fencing. Here, the homeowner created a coordinated look by painting the posts reddish-brown to match the home’s trim. “Painting the fence white and brown to mimic the house gives a wonderful finish and makes this home look like a showpiece,” says Ryan Fitzgerald, owner of UpHomes.
6. Let it Bloom
What better way to integrate a picket fence into your garden than to plant beautiful, vibrant blooms on either side? “The bright colors look fantastic against the white panels,” says Ash Read, founder of Indoor Plants, “and the way the blooms burst through the panels makes the garden look full and healthy.” Just be sure to provide the plants with enough space to grow, so they won’t damage the fence or cause it to lean in the future.
7. Short and Sweet
Picket fences come in all shapes and sizes, and we love this small picket fence as a border. It provides a simple way to finish off flower beds, paths, and different sections of the yard without impeding access. With this cute fence edging, the area looks finished, but you can still get to the plants for weeding, watering, and maintenance.
8. Perfect for Pets
This highly rated picket fence kit available at Amazon is a great way to create a safe, temporary play space for pets. “Playpens made for pets can be a bit of an eyesore, but creating your own out of picket fencing helps it blend into the rest of the garden and give a more refined look,” says Ivo Iv, owner of Decor Home Ideas.
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9. Mixed Materials
A step (or several) above wood, the traditional material used to build a picket fence, this design features marble posts and sturdy steel slats that boost security while adding a regal touch. “Solid stone posts are more expensive and difficult to install than wood,” says James Mayfield, CEO of Mayfield Environmental Engineering, “but they give a high-end finish that’s hard to beat.”
10. Let it Grow
Picket fences are a popular choice for vegetable patches. They’re easy to install, affordable, and allow plenty of light to reach the growing veggies. Opt for thin slats that don’t cast too much of a shadow. Allowing the wood to weather naturally can enhance the look while cutting down on maintenance.
11. Secret Garden
Add climbing plants such as honeysuckle or wisteria to your picket fence by introducing an archway. Lattice on the sides can help new vining plants become established. Of course, some pruning will be necessary to keep the plants contained.
12. Keep it Simple
If you like the minimalist look, keep it simple with a classic white garden fence. Thinner slats look more modern while the pointed posts add just enough character. White is always a great option for a minimalist look, but remember that it may need more upkeep to look great—dirt and dust are easy to spot on white.
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13. Cozy Corner
You don’t need to enclose your entire yard to enjoy the benefits of a picket fence. This highly rated two-panel picket fence kit available at Wayfair will add a charming touch to a front yard flower bed. Its sturdy design is corrosion-resistant and easy to install.
