IKEA NÄMMARÖ: The 3-in-1 privacy screen for balconies and mini gardens

In particular in cities, windows, terraces and loggias are often so close together that every step outside can feel like a small stage performance. Many tenants want greater privacy, but without using a drill, falling out with the property manager or taking up what little room they have. This is exactly where a clever 3-in-1 solution from IKEA comes in, making a balcony or mini garden feel considerably calmer and more sheltered with a single piece of furniture.

Why privacy on balconies and in mini gardens has become so difficult

The trend towards city living continues, while outdoor areas are becoming smaller and more expensive. Every square metre matters. Open railings, overlooked courtyards and staggered window fronts mean neighbours are often directly within each other's line of sight.

Market analyses show that the global market for privacy screens and fencing was worth around $19 billion in 2023, equivalent to approximately €17.5 billion. Privacy screening is no longer a niche concern; it has become a global growth market.

“People who feel unobserved use their balcony or garden more often, for longer – and in a much more relaxed way.”

However, conventional options such as tall fences, permanently fixed privacy walls or dense hedges come with drawbacks: they require space, cost a lot or run into legal restrictions in rented homes. Many deeds of covenant and building regulations simply prohibit permanent additions.

The IKEA solution: a NÄMMARÖ privacy screen that solves three problems at once

With its NÄMMARÖ range, IKEA offers furniture that performs several tasks at once: privacy screening, seating and storage. At its centre is a solid acacia-wood privacy screen that can be positioned without drilling or structural alterations.

Material and dimensions: what NÄMMARÖ is suitable for

The privacy screen is made from solid acacia wood. This timber is considered hard-wearing and weather-resistant, and looks noticeably more premium than many softwood alternatives. Its slats are arranged to allow light and air to circulate while blocking prying eyes.

• Privacy screen height: approx. 140 cm
• Width: approx. 80 cm
• Footprint depth: approx. 50 cm
• Version with integrated module: approximately 80 × 68 × 140 cm

This makes the system suitable even for narrow urban balconies. Its height is generally enough to create a protected area while sitting or reclining, without completely closing off the outdoor space.

For upkeep, wiping it down with a mild soapy solution is usually sufficient. Refreshing the wood stain once or twice a year helps preserve the colour and surface.

3-in-1 function: privacy screen, bench and storage in one

NÄMMARÖ becomes particularly useful when the screen is paired with a furniture module. The version with a bench and integrated storage makes double use of the same footprint:

• The privacy screen interrupts neighbours' direct line of sight.
• The bench provides seating for one or two people.
• The interior works as a storage box for cushions, throws, toys or garden tools.

User feedback is clear: many people praise the straightforward assembly, solid build quality and surprisingly generous storage space. Reviews particularly highlight that all the seat cushions fit inside without difficulty – an important benefit for anyone who does not want to carry everything back into the flat each evening.

Depending on the offer, the individual privacy screen costs around €75. The complete version with bench and storage generally costs between €170 and €220. That puts this solution well below the price of bespoke joinery or permanently fitted balcony screening.

“One module – three functions: when space is limited, furniture needs to do more than simply look good.”

How the privacy screen changes the use of small outdoor spaces

Its biggest advantage may be that NÄMMARÖ is not screwed into place. The unit remains free-standing and can be moved whenever necessary. That mobility creates plenty of options for everyday use.

Flexible privacy at different times of day

The privacy screen can simply be repositioned according to the sun's location or activity on the neighbouring balcony. Different zones can therefore be created in moments:

• Morning: A sheltered breakfast spot looking towards greenery rather than the opposite building wall.
• Midday: A shaded reading chair, screened from neighbours' home-office windows.
• Evening: A small lounge area with fairy lights, where you do not feel as though you are “on display”.

Families with children benefit in particular: the screen can define a small play corner, with toys stored away inside when visitors arrive or when the balcony needs to return to being a clothes-drying area.

Layout examples: how the idea works in tight spaces

A different arrangement may suit each type of outdoor area:

• Narrow balcony: Position the privacy screen parallel to the railing. Views from below disappear behind the wooden slats, while tall container plants or ornamental grasses provide extra screening above.
• Courtyard with a mini garden: The bench and privacy screen divide the dining area from the lounging space. Wheelie bins or an outdoor air-conditioning unit can be concealed behind them.
• Ground-floor terrace: Two modules placed in an L shape create a small corner “oasis”. Cushions, throws and children's toys can be put away in seconds.

Even an outdoor space that was previously barely used can become an everyday area for working, making calls, reading or simply putting your feet up.

Vertical greenery: making the IKEA NÄMMARÖ furniture even better with plants

Because the slatted structure is open, the privacy screen is an ideal base for a light green feature. Garden experts have long pointed to the benefits of vertical gardening where floor space is scarce.

The wooden frame can be used for, among other things:

• hanging herb pots
• climbing plants such as sweet peas or small climbing roses
• lightweight modular planting systems with clip-on holders
• a row of robust succulents in small containers

“Wood, a little greenery and a few textiles – that is often all it takes for a balcony to feel like a small room of its own.”

Anyone aiming for a calm overall look should coordinate the colours of plants and textiles with the warm acacia wood. Light covers and delicate grasses create an airy effect, while darker cushions and evergreen plants give more of the character of a sheltered lounge.

What tenants should keep in mind

Although the free-standing design resolves many issues caused by strict building rules, it cannot be used entirely without consideration. Several points are worth noting:

• Stability: Wind can be an issue on high balconies. Rubber feet, extra weights or pairing the unit with heavy planters improve stability.
• Height limits: Some buildings have rules on the maximum height of balcony furniture. Checking the tenancy agreement or building regulations first can prevent hassle.
• Drainage: The storage box should not remain standing in water permanently. Saucers or spacers prevent waterlogging and protect the wood.

Acacia wood needs regular care outdoors if its appearance is to be maintained. Those who like the silver-grey weathered look can deliberately allow the natural ageing process to take place. In that case, cleaning at longer intervals is enough.

How the 3-in-1 privacy screen can be combined with other furniture

The 3-in-1 privacy screen is most effective when accompanied by other compact furniture. Folding chairs, a narrow wall-mounted drop-leaf table or stackable stools can turn the setting into an office in the morning, a dining space at lunchtime and a lounge in the evening.

It is also practical to add battery-powered fairy lights or solar lamps that can be attached directly to the wooden structure. This creates indirect lighting that makes the outdoor area inviting without dazzling neighbours.

Anyone who has previously used their balcony more as a storage room can rethink it in just a few steps: place everything needed only occasionally in the storage compartment of the NÄMMARÖ module, and put smaller items into boxes or baskets. The floor stays clear, leaving room for a small outdoor zone that feels almost like an extra room.