Foxgloves and Peonies Along Stone Wall

Design notes

Mediterranean design is about shade and thick walls. Look for stucco in warm neutrals, terracotta or travertine underfoot, arches and loggias that throw deep shadow, and gravel courtyards rather than lawn. Water is small and central — a fountain, a rill, a tiled spa — and planting is drought-tolerant: olives, cypress, lavender, rosemary and bougainvillea. Wrought iron, blue-and-white tile and a long table under vines finish the picture.

What to look for

• Path width and bed width — can you reach and can a wheelbarrow pass
• Where the water is and how far the kitchen door is
• Edges and structure that still look good in winter