Flip through the latest issue of Gulf Weekly.
From a region well-known for healthy living comes a style that is central to family life, which has an elegance born of simplicity. However, the Mediterranean garden is not restricted to a geographical region. It is an architectural style that reflects a way of living.
The Mediterranean courtyard is about people, and by itself has many roles to perform. It is a place of relaxation; a quiet paradise in which to begin the day; a shaded retreat where you can enjoy a siesta and a podium where family and friends can gather in the evening.
It is also a place of practicalities - somewhere to prepare food, cultivate herbs for the kitchen and provide a secured area for children to play. Above all, it is a place of beauty and its charm is enhanced by an unfussy layout.
Characteristically, the walls are rendered stonework painted white, although bare stone or mural of a Mediterranean scene is an apt option. The bright white walls often contrast with blue painted door frames and steps, whereas the floor is generally constructed of stone paving, although painted concrete or terracotta tiles are sometimes used.
Features are few, and most combine practical and ornamental functions. There is an allotted space for a table and chairs near the house, while another ubiquitous elements such as the shaded pergola covered with plants may be positioned further away for seclusion.
A water feature is a recent but an important addition to the conventional Mediterranean courtyard, as it introduces movement and sound; however the design of the water feature must be simple in order to maintain the overall effect.
The planting follows a pattern of elegance and practicality. Shade-giving and fruiting varieties such as Olea europea (olive), Punica grantum (pomegranate), prunis dulcis (almond), prunus armeniaca (apricot) - their trunks painted white - are grown in planter cutouts set in the garden flooring.
Ornamental climbers and fruit trees are trained against walls and instead of beds and borders, there are plants in containers which can be moved around to alter the look of the garden.
Seasonal variety is introduced by changing the container plants. The classic Mediterranean planting is well known for scarlet pelargoniums (geraniums) in small terracotta pots, liberally circulated throughout the garden.
To complete the atmosphere, there must be a fragrant profusion of herbs like thyme, basil and oregano.
