Lionel Messi and Antonela Roccuzzo have set a new trend in luxury poolside privacy by using columnar trees instead of traditional fences, transforming their outdoor space into a lush, secluded oasis.
- Columnar Poplars create natural, stylish privacy for pools
- The vertical trees offer a soft, lush alternative to harsh fencing
- Adaptable options like Italian Cypress fit various climates
What happened
Instead of using conventional brick or wooden fences around their pool area, Lionel Messi and Antonela Roccuzzo chose Columnar Poplar trees, also known as Lombardy Poplars. These tall, narrow trees form a dense, vertical screen around their backyard pool that ensures privacy while enhancing the garden’s natural beauty. This distinctive approach to poolside seclusion is rapidly gaining popularity among luxury homeowners.
The trees’ fast-growing, slim silhouette offers an elegant architectural backdrop that instantly elevates the outdoor space. Messi and Roccuzzo’s innovative design reflects an emerging shift away from traditional hard fencing towards greener, living barriers that blend privacy with nature.
Why it feels good
The choice of columnar trees over solid fences creates a softer, more inviting environment. According to gardening experts, living walls formed by slender trees provide privacy without making a space feel closed in or clinical. Their movement in the breeze adds life and vibrancy that solid fences cannot match, making poolside moments more relaxing and aligned with nature.
Additionally, this approach adds a year-round sense of lushness and color. Unlike static fences, these trees grow and evolve with the seasons, which contributes to the outdoor space feeling dynamic, alive, and part of a well-designed, green landscape.
What to enjoy or watch next
For those inspired by Messi’s outdoor makeover but living in different climates, alternatives like Italian Cypress offer a similar slender, columnar growth habit that fits arid zones well. American arborvitae is another option to provide evergreen privacy and structure throughout the year, proving this trend is versatile and accessible for many homeowners.
Beyond trees, the overall poolside style shown at Messi’s home highlights other design trends worth exploring, such as curved loungers with woven wicker finishes for comfort and style. These pieces balance modern European elegance with timeless resort appeal, creating an inviting setting for summer relaxation.