Turn Your Terrace into a French Courtyard

PUT THE OH LÀ LÀ IN YOUR ALFRESCO

There’s nothing more charming than a traditional French garden. Yet the allure of natural stone, ancient urns, tall cypress trees and a flourishing vegetable garden seems like something we can only dream of from our suburban decks, petite patios and inner-city balconies. However, you don’t need to live on a provincial estate to get the look in your own outdoor space. A classic French garden has several key elements that can be easily replicated. We’ve compiled some easy ways to turn your terrace into a French courtyard.

PICK PROVINCIAL PLANTS

Lemon, cypress and olive trees instantly conjure the atmosphere of France. Planting around your patio or potting them on your balcony is a charming way to Frenchify your alfresco (and lemons to make your own limoncello!). Lavender is quintessentially French with its calming perfume, and it’s also easy to grow — even on a windowsill. Or get the provincial look without the fuss with faux plants.

Turn Your Petite Patio into a Parisian Courtyard with seating

CREATE a SERENE SITTING AREA

Shaded garden nooks and tranquil terrace enclaves invite you to sit back, relax and enjoy a latte or sunset aperitif. The romantic scrolled ironwork of the Arles garden table set (pictured below) evokes the ambience of a Parisian courtyard and adds so much joie de vivre to open air-spaces. Comfortable outdoor seating such as the Kamani is particularly alluring beside your terracotta plant pots, citrus fruits and cascading greenery.

CURATE URNS & ORNAMENTS

Glazed pottery and terracotta urns can add a French accent to your patio. They can also offer a beautiful focal point brimming with spring daffodils and peonies. Consider collecting aged-looking garden sculptures and trinkets from weekend markets, or get the look with some ornaments. Curate striking garden settings by clustering an assortment of pieces together to create a French courtyard garden look.

Turn Your Petite Patio into a Parisian Courtyard with a bistro set

Buy A bistro set

If you have the room, a big rustic table can really become the hero of your French courtyard garden. The Roman Stone table has the look of aged stone and provides the perfect place to enjoy big lunches with friends and family. But for smaller spaces, a balcony set or bistro set is ideal. From Sunday brunch to after-work drinks, a lovely alfresco set will allow you to enjoy your outdoor space and maximise your time in the open air.

Turn Your Petite Patio into a Parisian Courtyard with a veggie garden

GROW A VEGGIE GARDEN

Having fresh herbs and veggies in your garden is a treat for foodies and Francophiles alike and it’s very much a part of traditional French culture to give a fresh and flavourful boost to homecooked meals. However, growing your own organic goodies doesn’t have to be restricted by space. A vertical pallet garden is great for smaller courtyards and balconies and it’s easy to grow your own herbs with a few simple supplies.