Mediterranean gardens combine drought-tolerant plants with elegant, relaxed design.

These gardens are characterised by their use of warm colours, fragrant herbs, and structural elements that create a sense of timeless beauty and tranquillity.

• The general feeling is of rustic relaxation, low key and with careful use of key plants rather than a mass profusion

• Hard landscaping includes gravel paths, tumbled paving, terracotta and other natural materials

• Planting style is informal, using specimens that thrive in hot climates and is easy to care for

• Typical plants include those species requiring less water such as lavender, rosemary and olive

With hot, dry conditions becoming more common in the UK, Mediterranean plants are being increasingly successful in our climate. Terracotta pots and foliage covered dining arbours all add to the feeling of spending lazy days in the Mediterranean.

Simple water features and a gentle colour palette typically including soft blues, silvery greens, and warm earth tones, reflect the natural colours of the region.