![Vertical wood screens cover the exterior of a modern house.](https://www.contemporist.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/modern-house-with-wood-screens-for-privacy-210820-1154-01.jpg)
Wood screens are an alternative way to provide shade and security to a house, much like Madeleine Blanchfield Architects did when they designed this house in Australia.
The house was designed for a retired couple in a casual beachside community who wanted to have a welcoming home.
![Vertical wood screens can be opened to create a casual living environment.](https://www.contemporist.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/modern-house-with-wood-screens-for-privacy-210820-1154-02.jpg)
The wood screens, which can be left open or closed, ensure the house can be manipulated to suit the mood, whether it’s to protect from the elements, or have a very open and public feel – like a campsite – so neighbors and friends can just wander in for a chat and feel comfortable doing so.
![Operable wood screens close this house off from the elements.](https://www.contemporist.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/modern-house-with-wood-screens-for-privacy-210820-1154-03.jpg)
The operable timber screens sit between the glass line and perimeter columns and were intended to play on the surrounding gum trees and blend into the bush setting.
![Vertical wood screens can be opened to create a casual living environment.](https://www.contemporist.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/modern-house-with-wood-screens-for-privacy-210820-1154-04.jpg)