12 Deeply Calming Water Features That Are Easy to Incorporate Into Your Own Backyard
There’s just something about the presence of water that lends a calming feel to any backyard, especially in the summer months when we want to spend as much time outside as possible. If your outdoor space has the room to incorporate it, adding one of the below water features will elevate your patio, backyard, or garden in an instant.
Not only do these water features encapsulate pretty much any design style, no matter whether you want a European-inspired fountain or a modern water wall, but they can also very easily blend into your existing garden structures, making sure they never look out of place. From elegant, sculptural looks to earthy, natural designs, there’s something for everyone. So, call your landscaper ASAP and get ready to make a splash (quite literally!) in your backyard.
There’s something incredibly calming about the presence of water in any backyard, especially during the summer months when we want to spend as much time outside as possible. Adding water features can instantly elevate your patio, backyard, or garden. These water features can complement virtually any design style, whether you're after a cottagecore-inspired wishing well or a relaxing koi pond, and they can seamlessly blend into your existing garden structures.
From elegant, sculptural looks to earthy, natural designs, there’s something for everyone. These water feature ideas range from big-picture projects to the simplest backyard additions, so spaces of all sizes can find one that works best. So, call your landscaper and get ready to make a splash (quite literally!) in your backyard with these 12 best water features.
More outdoor inspiration:
Swimming Pool
This water feature may be a somewhat obvious choice, but how can you go wrong with a swimming pool? You’ll be able to take a dip in it at any time for a mental reset, and if you have kids, it’ll keep them occupied for hours on end. You can also outfit it any way you want, from picking the tiles you desire to playing around with the shape. In the winter months, simply drain and cover it: Easy!
Related Story: How Much Does an Endless Pool Cost?
Statue Fountain
Bring some European flair into your backyard design scheme with a statue fountain. Depending on its size, you could nestle it in amongst your flowers or make it a statement piece right at the center of your outdoor space. There are many different design options you can take, from cute cherubs to Greek-inspired goddesses, so it simply depends on the vibe you’re going for.
Water Wall
A water wall is a more minimalist water feature, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be chic in its own right. Not only is it a sturdy option for windy climates, but it also allows the water to trickle down softly, lending a soothing feel to your space.
Bird Bath
If you love the idea of having a gorgeous water fixture in your backyard but don’t want to hook up a fountain pump, look no further: A bird bath is a low-key option that you’ll only have to replace with clean water about every two to four days. It’ll help attract your feathered friends into your space, too.
Koi Pond
This one is for the truly dedicated, but honestly, the finished product is well worth it. With a koi pond, you can have some gorgeous fish to look at and take care of, all while adding a touch of luxury to your outdoor space. Koi ponds are incredibly colorful, and you can even add different plant options to them, like water lilies and begonias, for a more varied feel.
Bubbling Fountain
Bubbling fountains are a great water feature for those with tiny yards. Since the focal point of a bubbling water fountain is more so the water and less the structure itself, you can play with materials and shapes that will best fit your backyard.
Stream
Don’t underestimate the power of a simple stream: The moving water lends a relaxing feel to your backyard, and if you already have a fountain or pond on-site, a stream can be an easy addition. If your backyard or garden is big enough, consider a winding stream that can help navigate your visitors to secret spots all around.
Waterfall
If your backyard tends to have sloped or uneven features, a waterfall is a great way to use that to your advantage. Adding some natural stones or plants will help draw attention to it and make it look like it was always a part of your landscape.
Related Story: 21 Front Yard Landscaping Ideas
Water Walkway
Instead of leapfrogging from one end of your pool to the other, construct a water walkway for a seamless path. Even if it's more for looks than for anything else, it'll bring a unique, whimsical vibe to a pond or fountain.
Wishing Well
If you’re a fan of rustic, country-cottage–inspired styles, you really can’t go wrong with a wishing well. It lends a certain storybook charm to an outdoor area—and it doesn't have to be functional! You might even use this structure to cover up a feature of your backyard that you don't like.
Related Story: 22 Cottage-Style Homes That'll Transport You to the English Countryside
Wall Fountain
Wall fountains are a much bolder statement for a backyard than a statue or bubbling fountain since they usually tend to be much more dramatic in size and structure. However, that doesn't mean they’re not naturally elegant in their own right. By using high-quality materials like granite or marble, you’ll be able to bring an upscale feel to your backyard with ease.
Stone Pond
A small, standalone pond is an easy way to bring nature into your backyard, especially if you're not ready to commit to a massive water feature just yet. You can even do this yourself with a simple home kit, and in time, you’ll be able to see your pond become a thriving water ecosystem in its own right. And who knows? By that time, you might just be ready to add a waterfall or fountain into the mix.
You Might Also Like
