Hi Zara! I love the idea of adding a vertical garden to your outdoor space.. and making it more convenient so you can take full advantage of your garden! This article show the different types of vertical gardens there are to choose from: http://www.countryliving.com/outdoor/how-to-plant-a-vertical-garden#slide-1 Here are a couple vertical planter options for sale that could work well with your space: http://www.williams-sonoma.com/products/307991/?catalogId=8&sku=307991&bnrid=3120901&cm_ven=Google_PLA&cm_cat=Agrarian&cm_pla=Vertical_Gardening&cm_ite=Free_Standing_Vertical_Garden_%7C_Williams-Sonoma&srccode=cii_17588969&cpncode=27-280278456-2 http://www.monticelloshop.org/040342.html?device=c&network=g&matchtype=&gclid=CMClmPOxwrwCFUhgMgodcRYA6Q

How about a horizontal weave-style fence for privacy, plenty of seating for dining and relaxing, with separate sections for each function. Moving the trees is a good idea, to open up the entire space.

The options....

A tired sideyard was given new life, with a new fence and wall colour - Resene Waterborn Woodsman in "Equilibrium" - and new plantings. The existing garden space was cluttered and my clients wanted to create more ease of access and flow to the side of the home. The new plants feature lots of burgundy foliage which will contrast nicely with the soft grey of the fence and wall. Before: After: