More than 50% of homeowners now say curb appeal is a top priority when planning outdoor projects, and fencing has moved from an afterthought to a design centerpiece. Instead of plain chain link or basic wood panels, property owners are looking for fences that actually complement their homes, add character to their yards, and still deliver privacy and security. In a place like Sherman, TX, where outdoor living is a big part of everyday life, the fence you choose can quietly upgrade the entire look and feel of your property.
Stylish fence options today go far beyond a few stain colors and post caps. Homeowners are mixing materials, choosing statement colors, and integrating features like lighting, horizontal lines, and decorative metalwork to transform simple boundaries into architectural features. Lowery Fence & Patio has seen this shift firsthand across Sherman and surrounding North Texas communities, with more clients asking how to create a fence that fits their home’s style as much as their budget. Whether you prefer clean modern lines, rustic charm, or classic Southern elegance, there are fence designs that can match your vision while holding up to Texas sun, wind, and storms.
Thinking about a new fence isn’t just about where it will go; it’s also about how it will look from the street, from your back patio, and even from inside your home. The right fence can frame your landscaping, create privacy around your outdoor living spaces, and even make a modest yard feel more upscale. Exploring today’s stylish options helps you avoid settling for something generic and instead choose a fence that adds long-term value and personality to your Sherman, TX property.
Modern Horizontal Wood Designs
One of the biggest trends in stylish fencing is the horizontal wood fence. Instead of the traditional vertical pickets, boards are installed horizontally, creating long, clean lines that feel contemporary and sophisticated. This style looks especially sharp with single-story ranch homes, mid-century designs, and newer construction in Sherman, TX subdivisions. The horizontal pattern draws the eye across the yard, often making smaller spaces appear wider and more open while still providing solid privacy.
Material choice plays a huge role in the final look. Cedar remains a favorite because of its natural resistance to decay and insects and its warm color tones. Paired with a clear sealant, cedar horizontal boards can create a high-end look without needing bright paint or stain. For homeowners who want a bolder design statement, darker stains—like espresso, charcoal, or rich walnut—can transform a simple horizontal fence into a dramatic backdrop for landscaping, string lights, or patio furniture. Lowery Fence & Patio can help you compare different wood species and finishes to strike the right balance between style and long-term durability.
Details matter with horizontal fences. Board spacing can be adjusted to create anything from a fully private barrier to a semi-open, modern slat look that lets in light and air. You can also mix board widths, alternating narrow and wide boards for a custom, designer finish. Metal posts, often powder-coated black, pair beautifully with horizontal wood, adding stability and a sleek accent that elevates the entire structure. For Sherman homeowners who want a modern look that still feels warm and natural, horizontal wood fencing is one of the most versatile and stylish choices available.
Decorative Metal And Ornamental Iron
For those who value visibility and elegance over full privacy, decorative metal and ornamental iron fencing offer a timeless, upscale look. Instead of blocking views, these fences frame them, which is ideal for front yards, pool enclosures, and properties that back up to open fields or scenic areas around Sherman, TX. The slender pickets and decorative finials give a refined impression that works well with brick homes, traditional architecture, and even newer builds that want a classic touch.
Today’s ornamental metal fences are not limited to traditional spear-topped designs. You can choose from flat-top styles, smooth lines, or custom patterns that include scrolls, rings, and geometric shapes. Color options usually include black, bronze, and sometimes custom finishes, all powder-coated for extra durability against sun and moisture. A black ornamental fence, for example, nearly disappears against greenery, letting your lawn and landscaping stand out while subtly defining property lines.
Beyond appearance, these fences deliver practical benefits. They require far less maintenance than wood and are designed to resist rust and fading. For homeowners concerned about pets or children, picket spacing can be selected to prevent small animals from squeezing through while still maintaining a light, open feel. Lowery Fence & Patio often combines ornamental fencing with masonry columns, gates, and entry arbors to create a grand entrance that enhances a home’s perceived value and security. For many Sherman residents, ornamental metal is the ideal intersection of style, strength, and low upkeep.
Vinyl Fencing With Style Upgrades
Vinyl fencing has come a long way from the plain white panels many people picture. Modern vinyl systems can mimic the look of painted wood, board-on-board privacy fences, or even decorative picket styles, all without the constant repainting or staining. For busy homeowners in Sherman, TX who want a stylish fence that stays attractive with minimal maintenance, vinyl is a compelling option. A quick rinse with a garden hose usually keeps it looking fresh, even after a dusty North Texas summer.
One of the biggest style advantages of vinyl today is the range of textures and colors. You can choose smooth, clean surfaces for a contemporary feel, or woodgrain textures that resemble stained lumber. Color options now include tans, grays, and two-tone combinations that coordinate better with brick, stone, and modern siding. A soft gray privacy vinyl fence, for example, pairs beautifully with cool-toned homes and can make bright landscaping colors appear more vibrant.
Vinyl fence designs also allow for decorative touches that boost curb appeal. Lattice-topped panels, scalloped picket lines, and decorative post caps can shift the overall personality of the fence from formal to playful or from cottage-inspired to coastal. For backyards where privacy is important but a solid wall feels too heavy, semi-privacy vinyl styles with alternating slats or narrow gaps can strike a comfortable balance. Lowery Fence & Patio can walk you through sample panels and style combinations so you can see firsthand how vinyl can look anything but basic.
Composite And Mixed-Material Fences
Composite fencing blends the look of wood with the durability of modern materials, making it a strong contender for homeowners who want stylish design without constant upkeep. These fences are typically made from a mix of wood fibers and recycled plastics, resulting in boards that resist rot, warping, and insect damage. In the hot, sometimes humid climate of Sherman, TX, that kind of resilience can make a noticeable difference over time. Composite fences maintain their color better than many natural woods and often come with extended warranties.
The style possibilities with composite fencing are surprisingly broad. Boards are available in multiple colors—ranging from warm browns and rich reds to contemporary grays—allowing you to coordinate with your home’s exterior palette. Many systems are designed to conceal fasteners, creating smooth, uninterrupted surfaces that look polished and custom. Some composite products also feature textured finishes that mimic real wood grain, giving you a sophisticated appearance without the splinters or frequent sealing.
Mixed-material designs take style a step further by combining composite or wood with metal, masonry, or even glass elements. For example, you might use composite boards for privacy panels between sleek steel posts, or alternate solid sections with horizontal metal slats for a unique, architectural look. Stone or brick columns between fence runs can add weight and presence, turning a simple boundary into a standout design feature. Lowery Fence & Patio can help design these combinations so that they not only look impressive but also function well and meet local codes in Sherman and the surrounding communities.
Privacy, Semi-Privacy, And Decorative Screens
Not every fence needs to wrap an entire property; sometimes the most stylish solution is a targeted privacy or decorative screen. These are especially popular around patios, hot tubs, outdoor kitchens, and seating areas where you want a sense of seclusion without enclosing your entire yard. In Sherman, TX, where neighbors often live relatively close together, well-placed privacy panels can make your outdoor space feel like a retreat without creating a fortress-like look.
Privacy screens can be built from wood, composite, metal, or a mix of materials. Louvered designs that angle boards or slats are particularly stylish, allowing air and some light to pass through while blocking direct views. Decorative cut-out metal panels are another option, featuring patterns like leaves, geometric shapes, or custom designs that cast interesting shadows throughout the day. These can be framed with wood or metal to tie into other elements of your landscape or fence line.
Plant-friendly fence and screen designs are also gaining popularity. Trellis sections built into fence runs or standalone panels create vertical gardening opportunities for vines, climbing roses, or jasmine. This approach adds softness and color over time, blending structure with nature. Lowery Fence & Patio can integrate these features into new fence installations so that your stylish design also supports the lush, green outdoor spaces many Sherman homeowners love.
Security, Gates, And Special Features
Style doesn’t have to come at the expense of security. In fact, thoughtful gate design and special features can make your property both safer and more visually appealing. Driveway gates, for example, can be crafted from ornamental iron, wood, or a combination of materials to match your fence while creating a strong first impression. Arched tops, decorative scrolls, and custom monograms are just a few ways Sherman property owners personalize their entrances.
Modern hardware and access control options also contribute to both form and function. Sleek black hinges and latches, keypad entry systems, and integrated door closers can be chosen to complement your fence style. For backyard gates, simple upgrades like decorative strap hinges, ring latches, or contrasting stain colors can turn a basic gate into a focal point instead of an afterthought. Lowery Fence & Patio can recommend hardware that stands up to regular use and weather while still looking sharp.
Lighting is another stylish detail that’s easy to overlook. Post cap lights, down-lighting along fence lines, and subtle step lights near gates can dramatically improve nighttime safety while creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. These features are especially effective around patios and paths, extending the usable hours of your outdoor spaces. For commercial or higher-security needs, solutions like Temporary security fencing can be used during construction or events, while permanent fences and gates are designed to match the property’s long-term aesthetic goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fence style works best with homes in Sherman, TX? Many Sherman homes pair beautifully with horizontal wood fences, classic ornamental metal, or upgraded vinyl privacy fences. The best style depends on your home’s architecture, your neighborhood, and how you use your outdoor spaces. Brick homes often look great with black ornamental metal or warm-toned wood, while modern or newer builds tend to match well with horizontal designs and composite materials. Lowery Fence & Patio can review your property and suggest styles that enhance your home rather than compete with it.
How do I balance style with privacy and security? Start by identifying where you truly need full privacy versus where partial visibility is acceptable or even desirable. For backyards and patio areas, solid or semi-solid fences in wood, vinyl, or composite are common choices. Front yards and property perimeters sometimes benefit more from ornamental or open designs that still define boundaries. Gate placement, fence height, and hardware choices all play a role. A professional installer can help tailor the design so you get the privacy and security you need without sacrificing curb appeal.
Which materials require the least maintenance but still look stylish? Vinyl, composite, and ornamental metal are typically the lowest-maintenance options that still deliver strong visual appeal. Vinyl and composite resist rot, insects, and fading, needing only occasional cleaning. Ornamental metal with a quality powder-coated finish stands up well to sun and rain. While wood requires more upkeep in terms of staining or sealing, many homeowners choose it for its natural beauty and versatility. In Sherman’s climate, discussing your maintenance comfort level with Lowery Fence & Patio can help narrow down the ideal material.
Can I mix different fence styles on the same property? Yes, combining styles is a smart way to get both function and style. For example, you might use a solid privacy fence along side and back property lines while installing an ornamental metal fence or decorative gate across the front. You can also mix materials within a single run, such as wood or composite panels between metal posts, or stone columns with metal infill. The key is to maintain a sense of cohesion through color, height, or repeating design elements so the finished look feels intentional.
How do I choose the right fence contractor for a stylish design? Look for a contractor with a strong portfolio of different fence styles, not just basic installations. Ask to see examples of horizontal fences, ornamental metal, vinyl, and mixed-material projects. A good company will listen to your goals, suggest creative options, and explain material and maintenance differences clearly. For homeowners in Sherman, TX, working with a local team like Lowery Fence & Patio ensures your fence is designed with local weather, soil conditions, and community standards in mind, resulting in a stylish installation that lasts.