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Our Specialty:
Modern Homes with Historic Detail!
Over the next few months we will be describing the features and influences that create specific styles that are popular here in SW Florida.
Landscape Choices for
for Mediterranean Style Homes
Mediterranean style comes from the European coastlines of mainly Spain, France and Italy. Because of the hot climate with breezes from the Sea, drought resistant plants fare very well. Think of our own US Southwest - yucca plants, and  succulents - would do well. Woody herbs, like rosemary or lavender add fragrance as well as structure and color and look great lining a path.
Depending on the area, colorful tropical plants can also be used, especially in containers at the entry doors (both front and back).  For a more formal look, individual hedge type plants (like boxwood) can be sculptured (trimmed) into a variety of topiary  shapes and used in pots at the entry, too! If the house is large enough, don't forget Italian Cypress for a stately look.
The Mediterranean countries are noted for their colorful pottery. When selecting pots and plants, make sure that plant selections coordinate (rather than compete) with the pot colors. Consider also,  a courtyard effect, either behind a gated wall or as a focal point in the center of a circular drive. Hard surfaces in a variety of textures or patterns are also a unique part of this style of landscape.
A paver patio or flagstone or crushed shell path add to the overall style.
For background plantings a small leaf tree (like the Olive tree) will provide shade as well as movement (because of their fine branches) when a breeze comes through.
And, of course, Palm trees! Almost any variety will do well in a Mediterranean garden. Just keep mature size and scale in mind. You don't want the plants to overwhelm the house or vice versa.
Lush or simple, casual or formal, there is an almost limitless variety of plant and paving materials to give your Mediterranean style home that authentic feel.
Next Month...
Roof Styles top off your historic home!
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