I have always viewed privacy planting as a necessary evil. Rather than focusing on aesthetics, this style of gardening usually prioritizes seclusion, which often results in an overly rigid and manicured look. However, the landscape at Ina Garten's home in East Hampton proves this doesn’t have to be the case. I recently came across an archival image of the Barefoot Contessa’s approach to planting for privacy, and it is absolutely stunning.
Her front yard features four rounded topiaries, a red maple tree waking up with fresh buds, and low ground cover like lavender. Medium–height hydrangeas provide the promise of lush green growth as the 2026 spring season begins.
