Nancy Meyers’s Mediterranean Pool Area Is a Study in Timeless Resort Living – It Sets the Gold Standard for Premium Landscapes

The famed director brings her cinematic style to the poolside, offering a blueprint for a sophisticated and sensory Mediterranean sanctuary

Nancy Meyers
(Image credit: Getty Images / Vera Anderson / Contributor)

Nancy Meyers is a renowned expert at crafting atmospheric interiors, so it follows naturally that the director of It's Complicated and The Holiday lives in a home as aspirational as her film sets.

This summer, as we embrace the warmth of 2026, her backyard is providing the ultimate inspiration for seasonal lounging. In a photo shared to her Instagram page, Meyers revealed her outdoor pool area, which features beige stone flooring, cream and wood patio furniture, and matching white umbrellas that catch the bright sunlight.

This picturesque yard captures the essence of a Mediterranean-style resort. It perfectly aligns with the enduring 2026 trend of creating a vacation-worthy atmosphere within our own gardens – the ultimate high–end staycation. To help you transform your backyard into a midsummer oasis, we consulted an expert for design and accessorizing tips to achieve that classic Mediterranean aesthetic.

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A primary consideration is the tiling used inside or around a swimming pool, as this is a brilliant way to infuse the space with colors that evoke distant shores.

'Instead of traditional terracotta, go for oversized, colorful ceramics that reflect the bright blues and yellows of Mediterranean coastal towns,' suggests Jodi Peterman, the CEO and owner of Elizabeth Erin Designs. 'I use them for plants, water features, or even as standalone art pieces.'

While placing live plants near a pool is a wonderful way to soften stone or cement surfaces, Peterman recommends elevating the experience by planting scented herbs along the water's edge.

'Think about engaging all the senses,' she says. 'Build an aromatic herb garden right next to your pool, filled with Mediterranean staples like rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Not only will it give you fresh ingredients for cooking or cocktails, but it also brings the scents of the Mediterranean to your poolside.'

To further enhance the ambiance as the sun sets on a warm evening, consider accessories that provide both light and texture. 'Add contrast to your watery oasis with stone fire bowls,' Peterman suggests.

'The flickering flames create a luxurious balance of the elements – fire and water – evoking those warm, evening vibes of Mediterranean beachfront lounges. If you're still in the construction phase, it’s smart to plan ahead by running gas lines to where your fire bowl(s) will be. This not only makes them easier to use but also adds a touch of sophistication and convenience to your outdoor setup.'

The wood and white patio furniture in Meyers' yard also deserves recognition. With its plush cushions and soft materials, it offers a resort–like quality that is perfect for drying off after a dip or enjoying a chilled drink during the height of the summer season.


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Megan Slack
Head of Celebrity Style News

Megan is the Head of Celebrity Style News at Homes & Gardens, where she leads the celebrity/ news team. She has a history in interior design, travel, and news journalism, having lived and worked in New York, Paris, and, currently, London. Megan has bylines in Livingetc, The Telegraph, and IRK Magazine, and has interviewed the likes of Drew Barrymore, Ayesha Curry, Michelle Keegan, and Tan France, among others. She lives in a London apartment with her antique typewriter and an eclectic espresso cup collection, and dreams of a Kelly Wearstler-designed home.