Decorative Fencing Ideas That Add Privacy and Curb Appeal

A great fence does more than just mark property lines—it adds style, increases privacy, and enhances the overall look of your home. If you're considering a new fence in the Madison area, the right design can elevate your yard’s aesthetic while still giving you the security and separation you need.



At Good Neighbor Fencing, we believe a fence should look as good as it performs. Here are some of our favorite decorative fencing ideas that strike the perfect balance between privacy and curb appeal.

1. Board-on-Board Fencing with a Custom Top Trim

This classic wood fence style offers complete privacy by overlapping vertical boards, with no gaps even as the wood shrinks over time. You can take it a step further with a custom top trim, such as a cap rail, arched design, or lattice detail.

This is a great choice for traditional homes or homeowners who want a fully enclosed yard without sacrificing style.

2. Horizontal Slat Fencing

Clean lines and a modern look make horizontal fencing a rising favorite in Madison neighborhoods. Whether built in wood or composite materials, horizontal slats offer a sleek alternative to standard picket or vertical panels.

Spacing can be adjusted for semi-privacy or full privacy, and it's a great match for contemporary home designs.

3. Decorative Lattice or Trellis Tops

Adding a lattice or trellis section along the top of your fence brings visual interest while maintaining lower-panel privacy. These features are perfect for climbing plants like clematis or ivy and can soften the fence line for a more inviting backyard.

This is a great option for homeowners who want to blend privacy with garden aesthetics.

4. Mixed Materials (Wood & Metal or Vinyl & Stone)

Combining materials like wood posts with wrought iron panels or pairing vinyl privacy fencing with a natural stone base creates a custom, upscale look. These combinations give you the best of both worlds: strength, privacy, and standout curb appeal.

Mixed material fences work well in transitional and custom homes and can match other exterior features like decks, porches, or retaining walls.

5. Shadowbox Fencing

Also known as “good neighbor” fencing, this style alternates pickets on either side of the rail, allowing airflow and partial visibility while maintaining a sense of enclosure. It’s especially popular for properties that share a line with a neighbor—because both sides look equally finished.

It’s ideal for suburban settings, including Madison’s tightly spaced residential neighborhoods.

6. Painted or Stained Custom Color Fences

Never underestimate the power of color. A decorative fence stained in a rich cedar tone, classic white, or even bold black can completely transform the curb appeal of your property. When done right, a painted fence becomes a design element—not just a boundary.

We can help you choose a finish that complements your home’s exterior, landscaping, and style.

Ready to Build the Fence That Defines Your Yard?

At Good Neighbor Fencing, we design and install custom decorative fences that reflect your personality and meet your privacy needs. Whether you're upgrading an old boundary or starting fresh, we bring years of local experience, quality craftsmanship, and design expertise to every job.