Not at all influenced by the fact that I got to try out L’Occitane‘s new beauty products on the sidelines (so much so that the designer walked straight passed me and I was comPLETELY distracted), but The L’Occitane garden at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show was definitely my favourite.

Designed by James Towillis to recreate the sights and smells of Provence in true L’occitane style it represents the natural ingredients found in their products, and was packed with the colour and textures of the south of France. And, with the weather being so dreamy, I was transformed from Chelsea to Provence. (Not that I’d mind living in uber-glam Chelsea of course!)

The Country Homes & Interiors team took a fab photo.

roomenvy - The L'Occitane Garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2010

It was when I was sunning/burning myself at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show while working/eating ice cream that I decided ‘this is EXACTLY what I want from my summer’. Sunshine, plentiful food, (a sneaky Pimm’s or two) and of course, a cute outdoor dining area where I would have the aforementioned fun!

I think these garden dining ideas are just so sweet, whether it’s for sitting outside with a book ….

Planning a romantic evening meal with the fella … (ahem, invited for a romantic evening BY the fella …)

roomenvy - garden dining area

Getting some piece and quiet at the end of the garden (and at the beginning of the set of M. Night Shyamalan’s The Village it would seem) …

roomenvy - garden seating area

Or enjoying a sunny afternoon with the family …

roomenvy - alfresco dining area