One of the most enduring style as it can give a subtle nod to warmer climes and emphasises spending time together
Mediterranean
Garden Style
What is this style?
This style embraces the outdoor living of the countries that border the Mediterranean sea, and although we may not bask in the same sunshine it doesn’t mean we can’t have a piece of that relaxed lifestyle.
This style uses planting sparingly but to great impact, with heavily scented planting or strong evergreen forms.
Who Does This Style Suit?
This style can be adapted to any garden, in any climate and any location. The choice of plants and hard landscaping choices will need to be adapted to allow the garden to thrive but this style isn’t off limits to anyone.
It can also be an incredibly low maintenance garden style so perfect for those who have very little time to allocate to the garden. Large entertaining spaces are great for families as they promote spending quality time together. This style could suit someone who has a smaller house by creating outdoor ‘rooms’ for you spread out in when the weather allows.
This style also has a relaxed elegance and formality which gives year-round structure, allowing you to enjoy viewing your garden even if it isn’t warm enough to be outside too long. If you have a good view of your garden from your living space then this style may be for you as having a good looking, evergreen garden can improve your experience during winter, as a beautiful backdrop to your interior.
Added Extras
This design style has some fantastic additional benefits:
- basically all herbs will fit this style so you can boost your health and make tastier foods for the family
- The cooler tones found within the plants classically used in this style will automatically create a calming and relaxing space
Cons
This garden tends to have a limited colour palette, so if you enjoy a more maximalist aesthetic then this style may not be your first choice. You can take the bones of the style and fill with more colour, but may lose some of the calming effects.
Conclusion
If you want a calm space with relaxed formality and low maintenance planting schemes that still have a strong presence then this style should be one you strongly consider.
Designer’s Tips
Concentrate on Materials: generally, avoid anything too dark or grey. Paler, warmer gravel will reflect light around the space and mimic the colours of the Med
Limited Planting Palette: choice cooler tones to create a calm and relaxing space, but make sure they are suitable for your situation. Don’t necessarily choose the same plants they grow in the Mediterranean
Year-round Interest: even though you’ll mainly use the space in summer, think of your garden as a picture and including evergreens will ensure you have something nice to look at all year