Mediterranean Garden Ideas to Create a Relaxing Outdoor Retreat

Open Space Concepts

Call now

August 5, 2024 12:00 pm
Mediterranean Garden Ideas to Create a Relaxing Outdoor Retreat

If you’ve had enough of cloudy days and are craving some Mediterranean sunshine, then why not turn your garden into the perfect outdoor paradise? Whether you’re after laid-back living or dining al fresco, there are plenty of ways to incorporate Mediterranean decor into your garden. 

These ten Mediterranean garden ideas will give you inspiration to create the perfect outdoor retreat. Open Space Concepts offers an incredible range of modern and sleek outdoor awnings, perfect for gatherings with family and friends or creating a cosy sanctuary, ideal for siestas! 

Use your senses to embrace the sound of trickling water, the sight of vibrant colours, the sensual smell of jasmine and the feel of exotic fabrics, by indulging in these Mediterranean garden ideas. 

1. Buy a funky patio umbrella

A patio umbrella provides shade and a secluded area to sit under, as well as adding character and personality to an outdoor space. There are plenty of cool and funky designs out there to jazz up your garden – try prints such as fruits, structured shapes, and blue tiles to really embrace a Mediterranean feel. 

If you’re looking for other shade options, why not check out our Markilux awnings, a sleek and modern solution to protecting you from the sun. 

2. Add a tranquil water feature 

It wouldn’t be a successful Mediterranean garden ideas guide without the mention of a tranquil and relaxing water feature. Water is a major component of Mediterranean gardens, acting as a cooling counterpart to a sun-baked landscape. 

The sound of moving water is soothing and invigorating and can provide a haven for birds and other wildlife. You can choose a stand-out feature such as a water fountain, or incorporate bird baths and misters for a more relaxed feel. 

3. Choose terracotta tiles 

Embrace unique Mediterranean architecture by choosing terracotta tiles. Not only is terracotta extremely affordable, but it also gives an authentic and traditional feel to any outdoor space. 

Their rustic textures and natural variations make them incredibly durable and easy to maintain, so you can sit back and relax, admiring your beautiful tiles whilst soaking up the sunshine. 

4. Add a shaded seating area 

Sometimes, when the UK weather is actually sunny, shaded areas are vital to ensure you are protecting yourself against sun exposure. You can make a shaded corner feel like a cosy haven by adding padded seats and cushions – the perfect place for an afternoon siesta! 

A sloped or enclosed pergola is a decorative structure that is ideal for providing necessary shade whilst also adding an attractive feel to your garden. Pergolas can convert seating areas into inviting extensions of the house, adding intimacy and togetherness. 

IMG 20240318 WA0028

5. Try a gravelled floor 

In many Mediterranean gardens, because of a lack of water and drought periods, lawns often become dry and worn out. Instead, lawns have been eliminated or replaced with paving or gravel.

If you are quite low maintenance when it comes to gardening and mowing the lawn, then this might be the perfect solution for you. Having a gravelled floor means that your garden is a little easier to maintain, and makes it more long-lasting. 

6. Include potted plants 

 Another famous feature of a Mediterranean garden is terracotta pots. You can incorporate pots in any shape or size, and plant whatever your heart desires. Try to use terracotta or clay pots rather than plastic pots as these will remain cooler. 

Top Tip: Remember to regularly water your plants. A potted plant has a smaller reserve of water than a plant grown in the ground. 

7. Create a cosy dining area 

Creating an outdoor dining area will help you make the most of your garden during the spring and summer months. Dining al fresco can give your outdoor space a Mediterranean feel, especially if you decorate accordingly. 

Our outdoor kitchens are ideal for hosting family and friends. Offering a luxury dining experience, our outdoor kitchens seamlessly blend high-quality design and engineering, elevating your outdoor space to new heights. 

8. Paint a wall a vibrant colour 

To add some vibrancy and brightness into your garden, consider painting your wall or fence a bold colour. Adding rich tones will evoke a rustic and traditional vibe to any outdoor space. 

Use colours such as sunshine yellow, sea blue, and muted red to embrace a Mediterranean feel. Or, incorporate a colourful Markilux awning into your garden – available in over 250 colours! 

9. Invest in outdoor lighting 

Hang string lights or lanterns with a warm, soft glow to create an inviting atmosphere for night-time relaxation. Evenings in your garden will be enchanting and magical with outdoor lighting. 

If you fancy modern lighting that will wow, then a retractable pergola with built-in LED lighting is perfect for enjoying your outdoor space well into the evenings. 

10. Incorporate Mediterranean scents  

To heighten your senses and induce Mediterranean scents, you can plant fragrant flowers like jasmine and lavender. If you have a paved area, adding aromatic plants along the path will release the scent of the leaves as you brush past. 

Position your fragrant flowers close to a seating area so that you can enjoy sweet smells whilst chilling out, and use potted herbs to decorate outdoor dining tables. 

Transform your garden into a Mediterranean paradise with Open Space Concepts! 

Hopefully, these Mediterranean garden ideas have given you a dash of inspiration to transform your garden into a relaxing outdoor retreat. 

At Open Space Concepts, we are passionate about designing and installing bespoke outdoor living structures, perfect for stylish living and dining with friends and family. Each product is custom-made, meaning that there are options available whatever your vision is. 
If you would like to make an enquiry, simply get in touch via our online contact form and we’ll ensure that we get back to you as soon as possible!

Published by