As a professional window tinter here in Tasmania , I've often solved many of these types of situations with an application of a decorative opaque / frosted film to the glass balustrades with an added suggestion of using light weight plant holders hooked onto the stainless top rail ;if safe to do so ; to increase the overall privacy height as well as doing same to the end/ side walls . I believe doing it this way will allow you a wider choice of smaller & cheaper plants to choose from rather than having to use up valuable floor space with larger pots and equally taller and more expensive plants which may also limit the choices suitable for the location . Photo included here is one showing only a portion of each panel of glass done starting from the lower edge of the glass going up part way by approx 600 mm. which still allows the scenic views over the neighbours roof lines. As you have have a situation with high buildings overlooking you as well ,does make the situation harder to offer the best alround and cost effective way to solve your particular situation ,but I hope this may be of use . As much as I like decorative mesh screens as a suggestion , I believe the deco film option can be the cheapest option whilst providing extra glass protection by shatter proofing the glass . Gary ,Protek window tinting & blinds (Tasmania )

Hi Sarah DIY can be a great option to stay within your budget and find an agreeable solution to your current dilemma. Window furnishings are generally one of the last jobs required after going through the process of building your house, which means the budget is always tight at this point after all the other 'extra expenses' Therefore you are now potentially starting to look at compromising on the quality that you originally wanted to finish your off your house. Window furnishing can have a fairly visual impact, as well as influencing how the room 'feels', on both the inside and outside of you rooms and home. In the first instance we need to define the difference between a DIY 'Ready Made / Ready to Hang Product' which is what you would purchase from somewhere such as Spotlight vs DIY "Custom Made" products. The difference in quality is significant, however the price points don't have to be. At iseekblinds, we offer genuine custom made blinds, made in Australia. If you visit our website, you can get an instant price online - It would be interesting to see the difference between what you have been quoted and what we can offer. We can turn Roller Blinds around within 3 weeks or sooner if requested and deliver nationally. Everything you need to know regarding measure and installation is on our website and we teach and guide you through the process to ensure you get it right. Please see some of our reviews to hear how our other customers have been surprised at just how easy the installation process has been and are over the moon in regards to the product quality they received. Get Your DIY On! I say. And please don't hesitate to contact me if I can be of any further assistance Cheers, Sally

Hi there, I think that the skylight would definitely be the way to go, if your budget runs to it. It will really lift the whole stairwell and make it much lighter and brighter. Full height frosted doors may be OK on the laundry, but I wouldn't recommend it for the bathroom as when lights are on in the room, you may be able to see more than you bargained for, from the corridor. The occupants of the house may feel comfortable with it, but any guests or visitors may not. A frosted panel at the top of the door would be as far as I'd go. Bear in mind too, that glass lets more sound through than timber, and in a situation like yours, I'd recommend a solid core door, for that reason. I hope this helps!

Hi Siriuskey, They are timber looking tiles - we absolutely love them. We are considering the same for the new place but potentially herringbone/parquetry arrangement. Much more expensive vs. laminate but easier to clean and no concern in relation to water...