With the arrival of mid-April, the first true whispers of spring are here, and I am already romanticizing my patio harder than ever. While the summer solstice is still a few months away, the lengthening days of 2026 have me dreaming of a rustic Mediterranean aesthetic.
A Tuscan courtyard look is currently at the top of my Pinterest board because it embodies the beauty of the season while feeling understated, and it is so achievable thanks to terracotta.
Terracotta, a type of earthenware made from coarse, porous clay, is often associated with Mediterranean gardens. Working on Homes & Gardens' celebrity style team, I've observed how it's ever–sought–after among the world's most popular figures. Take Goldie Hawn, who is the latest example of this.
While browsing Goldie's Instagram, I came across a photo of her terrace, which she has decorated with a curated selection of terracotta planters. The actress hasn't overwhelmed her space with containers, which feels intentional. There is enough terracotta to get the Mediterranean patio look without it feeling cluttered. The result is the blueprint for my own patio throughout the rest of 2026.
Shop the Goldie Hawn-Inspired Edit
Made from high-quality materials, these lightweight rolled-rim planters are built for durability and designed to withstand extreme weather. Made to last, they are an easy way to achieve Goldie’s look in your own space.
Nothing says Spanish Revival or Mediterranean style like an oversized urn. This statement piece deserves a place on any patio, where it looks stunning in the summer light. It brings a hint of European charm and helps you achieve Goldie’s look with ease.
With their natural stone coloring, no two of these planters are the same, making each one as unique as the gardens and patios they adorn.
The perfect plant to put in your container? A Mediterranean-style olive tree. Embrace the beauty of ancient civilizations as you bring the allure of olive groves to your own garden or patio. No matter the size, you can create an escapist retreat for the summer ahead.
A stylish, multitasking beach umbrella built for every sunny-day plan. Ideal for the beach, backyard, or terrace, it features a UV-coated canopy and marine-grade hardware for lasting durability, while playful fringe adds a touch of fun.
Crafted for both indoor and outdoor use, the Conrad pillow features intricate stripes and tasseled corners. Layer it with florals and plaids to create a timeless, livable-luxury style.
Alongside their escapist qualities, terracotta planters are among the most versatile pieces you can introduce to your patio or terrace during these April planting sessions. I spoke to Tammy Sons, a horticulture expert and the founder and CEO of TN Nursery, who explained that these containers are useful for preventing root rot in my plants.
'Terracotta planters come in a variety of colors, but not only that – the clay they're made of is porous and breathable, preventing any root rot from happening and keeping the soil cool,' she says.
If you're looking for tips on creating a Mediterranean garden, Tammy recommends planting drought–tolerant herbs in your terracotta containers now so they can establish themselves for the heat.
'You can really achieve a sort of Mediterranean–courtyard aesthetic that goes well with stone, wood, and lush green foliage. I recommend planting drought–tolerant herbs ( like thyme, oregano, or rosemary ), succulents or cacti, or even sun–loving flowers like lavender or geraniums,' she says.
With terracotta containers, it's hard to go wrong. Whether you let them stand alone or fill them with fresh spring greenery, they'll always feel utterly timeless. Even if you can't get the airplane ticket to Italy, you can recreate some of its charm in your yard throughout the sunny days of 2026.
