Arizona

In a modern hotel complex on Mallorca, there is a very special garden area we call “Arizona.” Why? Because it is inspired by the semi-arid landscapes of the southwestern United States—perfectly suited to the hot, dry Mediterranean climate.

Silvery Gray – Protection and Beauty

Silvery gray is the defining element here. Many of the plants feature this distinctive coloration, which is not only stunning but also functional. Tiny hairs on their leaves act as a protective emulsion—a natural sunscreen! You may recognize this from olive trees, but here, we’ve incorporated actual plants from Arizona, such as different types of Yucca, western American cypress, robust iris varieties, and xerophytes from Arizona. These plants are not only hardy but also bring a modern twist to the Mediterranean landscape with their silvery sheen.

Minimal Water Requirement, Maximum Effect

In the “Arizona” garden, we’ve used plants that require very little water, such as Italian curry plant (Helichrysum italicum), the Bismarck palm from Madagascar’s dry savannas, and native grasses. This is not only sustainable but also fits the concept of the hotel, where maintenance effort is intentionally kept low.

The Mediterranean climate exists in only five places on Earth: around the Mediterranean Sea, parts of California (and Arizona), Chile/Argentina, South Africa, and parts of Australia. This semi-arid climate is characterized by several months of intense summer sunlight, mild, rainy winters, and occasional frost periods—completely opposite to Central Europe’s climate.

A Garden That Grows and Inspires

We began designing this garden two years ago, and I’m constantly amazed at how it has developed. The climate here is ideal for the plants, which are thriving and creating a vibrant backdrop that perfectly matches the modern architecture of the hotel.

This garden is not only a place of relaxation but also a statement: a proof that aesthetics and sustainability can go hand in hand.