As the weather warms up, many of us are thinking about how to spruce up our outdoor areas for lounging, parties and dinners outside. Spanish-Mediterranean courtyard gardens provide plenty of inspiration. These cozy enclosed patios are designed to be an extension of the home’s living space, with areas to sit, dine and relax surrounded by the classic good looks of tile, cooling fountains and a few choice plants. Read on for idea-filled photos and 9 elements of this landscape style. Aitken and Associates 1. Water feature. A colorfully tiled fountain makes a stunning focal point in this courtyard, while providing the soothing sound of water. The bright colors are repeated in the cluster of dark pink flowers in the corner and a pair of blue chairs.

Keep in mind that you will need to run electrical power to a recirculating pump that is in the fountain's reservoir (pool). AMS Landscape Design Studios, Inc. 2. Patio. There are paved areas for outdoor living, usually made of tile, stone or brick. This courtyard patio has a Mediterranean influence and the floor is done in a herringbone pattern. Notice wrought-iron window grilles, a feature of Spanish architecture, in the fireplace wall. Jeffrey Gordon Smith Landscape Architecture 3. Hardscaping. The emphasis is on the usable living space; plants are used to enhance the patios and tends to be on the perimeter and in containers. This patio is made of peach-toned flagstone with the spaces filled with soft ground cover. The lounge chairs face a luxurious pool with a cobalt-blue tiled wall fountain.

Jeffrey Gordon Smith Landscape Architecture 4. Stucco walls. The low walls of this Spanish bungalow show off the front of the house, and its old-style gate is very inviting. The mustard gold color is common for Mediterranean style homes. A similar color is: Benjamin Moore Imperial Yellow 314.
Jeffrey Gordon Smith Landscape Architecture As you come through the front gate at this home, you are greeted by a tall column-shaped fountain in a front flagstone courtyard. It appears to be centered with the arched window and is balanced with Italian cypress. Jeffrey Gordon Smith Landscape Architecture 5. Fireplace. This is the back area of the house in the previous photo. This garden was designed to enhance the existing architecture and create a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor areas. The fireplace wall features a built-in bench and an outdoor kitchen. Frank & Grossman Landscape Contractors, Inc. White stucco with brick or terracotta floors are the classic choice for a Spanish courtyard garden. This planter wall creates a cozy nook for dining and the perfect backdrop for sculptural, drought-tolerant plantings. A brick-toned flagstone path leads you out the gate. McDugald-Steele 6. Center courtyard with fountain. Reminiscent of the California Spanish-style missions, this formal courtyard is located in the middle of a compound and features a prominent fountain. Arterra Landscape Architects This courtyard is surrounded on three sides by a U-shaped home. A flagstone patio with tight joints provides a smooth surface for the table and chairs. Arterra Landscape Architects The other side of the previous courtyard reveals a beautiful view. Latin Accents, Inc. 7. Hand-painted tile. Colorful Spanish or Mexican tile is a favorite element of these courtyards. Here, cheerful patterns cover the face of a large planter. The top also provides casual seating. Latin Accents, Inc. Tile covers the hearth and frames the curves of this fireplace. The opening is a Moorish-style arch. Coordinating accent tiles dot the terracotta floor.

This tile is from Latin Accents. Zeterre Landscape Architecture 8. Container plants. Plants in decorative ceramic or terracotta pots are often found grouped together. Vary the heights and when in doubt, go with an odd number of pots.

A built-in Moorish style bench and low planter provide additional seating in this lush feeling garden patio. Carson Poetzl, Inc. 9. Varied materials. Different materials on the ground define areas and create paths from one area to the next, adding beauty and interest to your outdoor space.

Tile, brick, gravel, pebbles and concrete stepping stones were all used in this lovely courtyard garden. Exteriors By Chad Robert This space is furnished like a living room. You have a fireplace, comfy seating, lighting, decorative plants, even a patterned "rug," The hearth cleverly provides additional seating and a place to set your plate and drink. ¡Salud!

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