A Mediterranean Escape: Italian Riviera-Inspired Garden Design

Inspired by the picturesque landscapes and architectural details of my client’s native roots in the Italian Riviera, this garden is right at home in the English climate. It blends the lush vibrancy of Mediterranean living with the refined elegance of an English garden. Rustic seaside elements, timeless materials, and a carefully curated planting scheme create a space that feels both evocative and effortlessly liveable.

The colour palette draws from the coastal hues of Portofino and Cinque Terre - lavender and geranium for soft floral tones, bold canna for a zesty Mediterranean accent, and notes of deep blues and warm oranges in mosaic details and planting. Hardscape materials have been chosen to reflect the Riviera’s rich textures: terracotta pathways, rustic pea gravel softened with maritime planting, and feature terracotta pots positioned for maximum impact.

To enhance the coastal ambiance, beach pebbles and smooth cobbles provide contrast and depth, while wrought iron furniture and lighting details echo the decorative elegance of Italian villa gardens. A heritage rope doormat subtly references the seafaring charm of the region, evoking memories of leisurely escapes.

This garden is designed to be future-proof, with hardy Mediterranean plants that thrive in the local climate, ensuring beauty and resilience for years to come. The result is a space that seamlessly integrates colour, texture, and atmosphere, transporting its owner to the Riviera without leaving home.