BRINGTHE MEDTO YOURGARDEN

In sunny climates, life simply happens outdoors. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks with friends all take place on the terrace as the indoor space is designed to be a cool retreat away from the full blast of the sun. We’re learning to catch up.

When taking inspiration from our Mediterranean neighbours, keep that scorching sun in mind. Its effects will be there in the slightly bleached out brights that have sat outdoors through months of heat, and in the dry, chalky finishes on walls and timber. Adding texture is just as important as colour and, even in the most arid of places, the dryness is countered with some freshness from plants in pots, whether that’s abundant Mediterranean herbs soaking up the rays or hardy cacti that power on regardless.

When looking to create a suntrap of your own, think convivial. If you don’t have space for the long refectory table that’s designed to host generations of family, go for a round dining table – it’s the more flexible option when catering for anything from dinner for two to a feast with friends. The dining space is usually right outside the kitchen for easy delivery of generous platters of seasonal fare and shade here is an essential. The classic solution is a pergola draped in fast-growing vine leaves, but in a smaller space, a sail or parasol are both great temporary fixes. Bringing out a few pot plants from indoors for social occasions will also get you closer to the spirit of the style.

Setting the summer table is an easy and wonderful way to invite the sunshine in. Make it bright. Mix and match then add in statement pieces that will evoke that Mediterranean mood – we’re loving Portuguese classics by Bordallo Pinheiro.

And liquids of some variety are essentials throughout the day. Add wedges of lemon to your water pitchers and slices to more spirited drinks on the terrace later. A twizzle stick of rosemary makes a wonderful addition to a G&T – plucked fresh from your herb planters of course.

If you are aiming for a long, relaxed lunch or dinner, you’ll want to be comfortable. Chairs with slatted designs in natural materials encourage air flow and look for rounded backs that offer good support. Breakout seating such as a simple bench can make the most of a sunny hotspot.

Cushions are always appreciated and are the quickest way to add pops of colour that will lift the entire space. Again, keep it relaxed, mixing and matching in summery shades of ochre, sky blue and weathered terracotta pink.

‘Part of this season’s Modern Mediterranean look is inspired by the South of France and the artistic communities that gathered there,’ says Fionnuala Johnston, Partner & Senior Designer, Home. ‘The colour yellow is important as are natural materials. There is a vintage vibe to it with a mix of stripes and florals against block prints and small fashion prints that feels relaxed and eclectic.’

 ‘All of our outdoor cushions have been designed by the in-house studio team so they are unique products you won’t find anywhere else,’ explains Ian Ellis, Partner & Outdoor Buyer.  ‘The prints and patterns follow those from the Modern Mediterranean trend in homeware making it easy to create a flow between indoor and outdoor spaces.’

Time flies when the living is easy so include some lanterns ready for sundown. Candlelight is romantic with the added benefit of being able to add a couple of drops of lavender or citronella to keep bugs away. But solar-powered lights and lanterns are great for just getting on with the job, switching themselves on as soon as light levels are low enough. Include a few side tables to turn dining to lounging and you can sit back and take in all the pleasures of a summer’s evening – just as you would in the Med.