You could add a trellis to the fence assuming it is yours? If it is then plant some creepers along the fence and it will screen it off nicely. If the fence is not yours then try to find some tall narrow shrubs that will grow at least 500mm higher than the fence. This may involve some pruning so be sure you will maintain them before planting. You could use a few more of those bushes in the corner. I would lay an attractive stone patio, sandstone is lovely, and keep it simple. A few bushes, neat grass and maybe paint the lean to in a grey green to blend in better.,

I agree that space outside the bifolds is perfect for a patio. If you add planting between the patio and lawn with just a gap for access it'll make it more its own zone, especially of you can add some delicate height to look through. Re the overlooking, I can't quite see how that's happening so wondering if you have a neighbour who peeps in from their garden? I know someone who sorted that with a well placed arbour. It had closed sides which made all the difference. This sort of thing: https://www.summergardenbuildings.co.uk/products/garden-furniture/garden-arbour-302240.html They had a decent length of high boundary which you seem to have, so the arbour went after that and the closed side blocked the neighbour from simply moving further up the garden to peep into the house. Alternatively covering the patio with a pergola might be the answer as a strong wooden one gives you a lot of options for adding temporary or permanent screening.

I WOULD REPAINT YOUR WHITE CLADDING TO SAME COLOUR AS FENCE, then def do patio area at least half the length of side extention. For privacy I would do trelis as there is no limit to how high you can go or pot plant bamboo ( dont plant in the ground!) or as more innovative way do patio, plus both sides 1,2m paths from same tiles as patio and plant trees and bushes in the middle to give you privacy, but keep the light, with some stone gravel under the trees. In this case you would gain light and see greenery instead of your neighbours:)

Plus pergola at the back, you would have two different zones

Unfortunately when you live in a built up area(I do!) then privacy is always an issue. I think a pergola over the patio area as already suggested would be an excellent idea. It can be wood or metal. Where you are suggesting you will put the patio is a great choice as it will be a little sun trap, assuming it is south or west facing. Don’t put it right up against the house wall as it will be very difficult to reach the upstairs windows for cleaning. I see you have a beautiful Camellia already so it’s a great start. Some climbers are a great way of greening up an area without too much width taken. Things like Clematis, Climbing Hydrangea, Honeysuckle and Climbing Roses, but there are lots more.

For the corner near the wooden lean-to, you could add a small seating area, raised planters, or a vertical garden to make the space more inviting. For privacy without changing the fence, consider tall planters with bamboo or fast-growing shrubs, trellis panels with climbing plants, or outdoor screens. Working with a professional like VVLandscapingCompany can also give you ideas on layout and plant selection to maximize privacy and style. Extending the patio from the bifolds to the end of the brick structure will create a smooth flow from indoors to outdoors, perfect for entertaining or relaxing.

Hi, this post is 2 years old have you done anything? I would love to see pictures of what you did.