Glenna Partridge Garden Design Do you have any photos of the site and your climate so I can give you some suggestions? Also I have a project on my listing with mediterranean elements if you need some inspiration.

Charmean Neithart Interiors, LLC. Olive trees! Not sure of your zone, but this says instant Tuscany...
Charmean Neithart Interiors, LLC. 1
Also, lots of rustic finishes, distressed furniture, vines growing on walls, lemon
trees in containers. Italian pottery with bay leaf trees work great too. Water features with sculpture and Italian tiles.
Charmean Neithart Interiors, LLC. 2

Hope that helps. Charmean Neithart

Glenna Partridge Garden Design You say you have a view of a lake? Sounds very nice. I would try to use that view as the focal point but if you have time to take a few pics that would help me give you specific advice on your garden space. If the architecture of your house works against that mediterranean feel you might have to adjust the "look" of the space. A few well chosen pieces of garden furniture, a few Italian terracotta containers, and maybe a scented plant might be all you need to create the feeling of being in the mediterranean.

Look forward to seeing your pics!

kougarton Wow thanks so much to all the advice! I have been so busy on this new house, but will try to get some pics on this site. thanks again.