Mediterranean patios
feature wrought iron and ornate tile designs.
People inspired by the golden sun-drenched Tuscan landscape or bright azure Grecian waters can renovate their patios to fit a Mediterranean theme. Hugo Latymer and Niccolo Grassi, authors of the book, "The Mediterranean Gardener," explain that the ancient Romans placed great attention on this space and treated the patio as an "outdoor living room." If your patio is currently lackluster, adopting any of the ideas commonly found on Mediterranean patios can instantly boost its appearance. Does this Spark an idea?
Terra Cotta Pots
Terra cotta pots function as receptacles for plants, decorations, and even as the base of small tables. Place several pots around the patio area and between chairs. Buy the large, jug-shaped pots with curvaceous handles, typical in Greece and Italy. If you enjoy crafts or want to add color to the space, paint the pots bright, bold colors in red, yellow and blue to add a Spanish flair.
Herb Gardens and Plants
Start a small herb garden on the patio. Herbs are aromatic, attractive and low maintenance. Grow rosemary, basil, thyme, oregano and lavender in large pots. These herbs do best in sunny areas of the patio. Also ensure their soil is well drained. If you live in a region similar to the Mediterranean, like Southern California, purchase and grow plants and trees commonly found in Greece, Italy or Spain. This includes citrus trees, olive trees and skyrocket juniper trees.
Wrought Iron
Many homes in the Mediterranean region are adorned with wrought iron. This metal design appears on doors, windows and patios. If your patio is in an enclosed space, replace the door with an ornately-designed wrought iron door. Or, enclose the patio space by using wrought iron fencing. Also, place several terra cotta plants in tall wrought iron plant holders. On the walls of the patio, place wrought iron candleholders. Or, select patio furniture like tables and chairs with frames made from this type of iron.
Fountains
Installing a fountain in the backyard is one way to add some Mediterranean Old World charm. Choose an elaborate, tiered fountain made from concrete or limestone. Pick a color that best matches the exterior of the home. Fountain colors available include chocolate brown, tan, white and bronze. If a fountain is too high maintenance and exceeds your budget, an alternative is a bird bath that looks like the first tier of a fountain.
Tile
Many Mediterranean patios are courtyard areas laid with large stone slabs or small tiles that form beautifully-shaped mosaics. Many materials are available to create a tiled patio space: travertine, limestone, quartzite and marble are just a few options. Also, choose tables with a tile mosaic top.
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