How to create a Mediterranean style outdoor space

With April comes warmer weather, bank holidays, and longer evenings. The glimmer of summer is just around the corner, and it’s time to start entertaining outdoors.

With an emphasis on fresh ingredients, bold flavours, and warm hospitality, the Mediterranean style of entertaining can be implemented into any style of home, no matter the size, or whether you rent or own. Creating a Mediterranean-style outdoor space is a great way to bring warmth and hospitality into your own backyard or balcony.

For some more Mediterranean inspiration, visit The Hamptons Mediterranean Garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Here are some top tips to help you create your own Mediterranean inspired outdoor oasis:

Choose natural materials: Opt for stone or brick pavers for your patio or walkways, and consider adding a pergola or umbrella to provide some shade.
Flex your green fingers. Plants are a key element of Mediterranean-style outdoor spaces. Add some colourful flowers in pots or planters, and consider planting some fragrant herbs like rosemary, thyme or basil. You can also add some citrus trees like lemon or orange for a touch of the region. Read the full planting lists for the Hamptons garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show for some garden inspiration.
Consider other elements. Adding a water feature or fountain is a simple way to create a calming ambiance. A fire pit or barbeque is another way to bring people together, build a seating area around it to enhance the space.
Incorporate colourful accents: Add some colourful accent pillows, rugs, or tablecloths in shades of blue, yellow, or green to create a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere. This is also a rental friendly tip: for those with restrictions from their landlords, adding colour is an easy way to make your space feel more homely.
Set the mood with lighting: Lighting is an important element of any outdoor space, especially when it comes to entertaining. Use string lights or lanterns to create a warm and inviting ambiance, and consider adding some candles or torches for a touch of romance.
Plan a menu for entertaining: Mediterranean-style outdoor spaces are all about gathering with friends and enjoying great food and conversation. Plan a menu that features fresh, local ingredients like seafood, grilled vegetables, and fresh herbs. Offer a variety of mezze, or small plates, to encourage sharing and conversation.

Outdoor spaces are an ideal location to connect and bring people together. You can live a slice of the Med Life, whether you're on a balcony in London, in the English countryside or in the South of Italy. Here are some of our favourite properties which have exquisite outdoor space, primed for Summer entertaining.