Turn Your Terrace into a French Courtyard

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 small urban courtyards and suburban backyards. 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 create a French courtyard garden.

Pick provincial plants

Lemon, cypress and olive trees instantly conjure the atmosphere of Southern France. Planting them around the perimeter of your space is a lovely way to get the look and privacy from neighbours (and lemons to make your own limoncello!). Lavender is quintessentially French with is calming perfume, and it’s also easy to grow — even on a windowsill. Or get the lavender look without the fuss with the De Fleurs ledge lavender.

Create serene sitting areas

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 Lucien evokes the ambience of a Parisian courtyard and adds so much joie de vivre to open air-spaces. This garden bench is particularly alluring beside all those terracotta plant pots, citrus fruits and cascading greenery.

Curate urns & ornaments

Ancient-looking glazed pottery and terracotta urns can add a French accent to your garden. 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 of our outdoor ornaments. Curate striking garden settings by clustering an assortment of pieces together to create a French courtyard garden look. Pick waterproof pieces or create your displays in undercover areas.

Find a rustic farm table

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. It’s beautifully paired with the Manette chair with its alluring heart-shaped scrolled backrest. Enhance the provincial vibe with some flickering lights for a more intimate setting.

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 urban balconies and can be very easily created in an afternoon with a few simple supplies. A tall plant stand like the Lucien is ideal for potted herbs, with 3 tiers of surface space for your edible garden.

(Madden aluminium dining table pictured above; Arles garden table and chairs at top of page)