The Mediterranean Retreat

Mediterranean garden in Old Sodbury, chair overlooking fields in gravel garden

At the heart of this garden is a swimming pool—once a stark, standalone feature, now fully integrated into the wider landscape. Rather than concealing it, the design embraces the pool as a central part of the garden, using softened edges and broken lines to allow the space to blend naturally into its Cotswold setting. The planting is intentionally low-maintenance and relaxed. We’ve chosen plants that creep, spill, and fill the air with soft scents, creating a calm, inviting atmosphere. Scale is carefully considered—low, leading the eye gently through the garden, and across the rolling Cotswold hills beyond.

Several seating areas offer different ways to enjoy the garden: a barbecue space near the house, a cocktail spot overlooking the Cotswold Way, and a quiet fire pit beneath the canopy of an Amelanchier tree. Each space invites you to slow down, connect, and enjoy the outdoors in your own way. This garden blends Mediterranean ease with Cotswold character—a balance of tradition and contemporary simplicity. It’s a space designed to enrich daily life, offering a sanctuary that’s as beautiful as it is useable.


Project, Planting & Project Management: Diane Samways Garden Design 
Designer: Diane Samways Garden Design 
Landscaping: Sanders Landscapes
Photography: Dom Palmer

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Cotswold Way Swimming pool overlooking fields

CONTACT Us

Let’s work together

If you’re thinking about a garden project or just want to explore ideas, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch to book a consultation or ask any questions—just drop us a message via the form below.

Our most common questions, answered…

Yes, we offer a full design-and-build service—from concept to completion. Whether you need help shaping ideas or want us to handle the entire process, we ensure continuity, quality, and a smooth, well-managed experience.

Absolutely. We regularly collaborate with external designers and are happy to join your project at any stage. We’ll help translate your designer’s vision into reality with expert craftsmanship and practical know-how on-site.

We’re based in Frome, Somerset, and work across surrounding towns and villages. If you’re a little further out, feel free to get in touch—we sometimes travel for the right project and would be happy to chat.

Yes, we do. If you’re not ready for a full build or just need a fresh perspective, we offer standalone consultations. It’s a great way to get expert advice tailored to your garden’s potential and your goals.

Definitely. We love working with reclaimed and existing materials—it adds character and reduces waste. We’ll assess what can be reused or adapted and help you integrate it into your new space with thoughtful design.

Timelines depend on the scope, but we’ll always give you realistic estimates and keep you updated throughout. We’re careful planners and never rush—we’d rather get the details right and build something that truly lasts.

We build with care for the environment—using natural materials, reusing where possible, and planting for biodiversity. Our goal is to create gardens that are beautiful, functional, and kind to the planet in the long term.