In Charleston, Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig) is used for that purpose and not an ivy (Hedera spp.) Those displays are manicured regularly and meticulously....frequently is another adverb that I should add. The treads have to be kept free of Ficus tendrils or they'll become slippery and untidy looking.

And Ficus does damage the surfaces upon which it grows, no doubt about it.

The people that live in those homes don't do their own gardening. ;-)

I would avoid creeping fig on the house--as tempting as they look when they're younger, they grow quickly and as mentioned the tendrils do damage the surface they cling to. It is best used on retaining walls if you'd like to use it, but southern exposure if you can in zone 8 and good luck keeping them alive in 7. They are sensitive to hard frosts and are only recommended in zones 9-11.

Depending on where you are zone-wise, you might be able to get a similar effect with a less invasive/destructive plant in a vertical screened box. For sun, succulents or trailing sedum could look nice, or jasmine. For shade, periwinkle vine- but you've got to keep an eye on that one as well, or it will spread quickly. Here's a link to DIY succulent boxes, but you could fill with other (tough/hardy) plants. http://www.sunset.com/garden/backyard-projects/diy-vertical-succulent-garden-project