Popular practice in home building today maximizes a homes allowable footprint on each lot. The upside-a spacious home; the downside-minimal outdoor space. Additionally, in Southern California, common property lines are often delineated with concrete block walls, some reaching as high as 9', due to certain grading requirements.Solution....
LOOK! LOOK! Two things:
1. We need find a focus within in the yard. Add a small water feature, sculpture or birdbath. Or you could install an attractive shrub, place a potted plant, or plant an interesting vine on the wall. Almost anything will catch your eye and make you focus on something other than the wall... the wall ends up as a backdrop. [Choose wisely though, your rusty bike that's missing a seat and has flat tires, may actually be a worse focal point.]
2. And while you're out in the yard, find the best view. (Any borrowed scenery?? mountains, tree tops, no?) Then, turn around - Situate a patio with a table and chairs away from the house, and look back... With your back at the wall, you'll feel grounded. A pleasant sense of pride may overcome you when gazing at your home from your yard.
By comparison, a subdivision wall is usually quite plain and repetitive; but a home's windows, doors, and roof lines provide relief and interest. Our minds find gazing at architecture more appealing than starring at a wall.
