NESACCIO VILLA

Umbria, Italy

This garden was created with several distinct areas in mind. The gardens closest to the villa are the most minimal. Geometric gravel pools filled with cloud-pruned lavender break up the tightly clipped lawn, adding a contemporary twist to the ancient landscape. Erigeron and Rosemary soften the stonework that runs throughout the upper level of the grounds. Citrus trees placed in traditional terracotta pots define the outdoor entertaining areas and herb garden.

Below, via hidden stairs lined with poppies, is a secret garden. Lying in a kind of ravine, its walls are planted with resilient Euphorbia and Iris. This is a dry area with stony soil, so it was essential that the chosen plants were tough and tolerant of a little neglect. They provide rigid structure to the hillside, providing a sense of shelter as one walks along the path.