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Pond water feature ideas


Water feature ideas: 11 ways to add water to any backyard

(Image credit: Kip Dawkins)

Adding water feature ideas to your garden design will allow you to boost to the sensory experience of your backyard, altering the mood and feeling, or bringing life and movement to even the smallest outdoor space. 

A fountain or cascade can be energizing and create drama, while the still, reflective surface of a pond, or gentle flow of water in a rill or stream, can provide a meditative and soothing experience. 

Water features offer the opportunity to add an interesting array of aquatic and marginal plants and increase the biodiversity for wildlife. 

Water feature ideas can also act as a central focal point around which other backyard ideas, planting schemes and design features emanate.

Water feature ideas

‘Water feature ideas must work aesthetically and have purpose within the rest of your garden design. They don’t need to be complex, and sometimes the simplest designs will bring the most impact,’ explains John Wyer, CEO of garden design company Bowles & Wyer .

Before adding a water feature to your garden, consider what it is about one that appeals to you. There are many garden pond ideas that can create a therapeutic focal point.

'Is it the sound of moving water? A still body of water reflecting the sky and bouncing light around the garden?  Perhaps a mysterious inky blue pool set into a shady corner? It all differs from person to person,' explains award-winning landscape and garden designer Helen Elks-Smith FSGD.

Whether you want a quiet and calm watery element, the gentle tinkling sound of falling water, or a dramatic flow, will influence the design and style of the water feature. Before adding a water feature to your garden, consider what it is about one that appeals to you. 

Below, we bring you our favorite water feature ideas – plus some vital advice.

1. Install a raised pond as a focal point

(Image credit: Kip Dawkins)

One of the main roles of water feature ideas within a backyard – whether a large space or a compact courtyard – is to create a focal point. Raised garden ponds like the one above are often placed centrally within a courtyard or at the end of a path to draw the eye. 

Either way, it can be the starting point from which the rest of your garden design emanates. Adding pond plants will enhance the natural look and feel of the pond.

2. Create a restful feel with water rills

(Image credit: Peter Reader Landscapes)

Rills are shallow channels along which water flows gently from one area to another. In Islamic gardens, rills were central features running along the main axis of the garden, often culminating in a fountain or pond.

'Rills can deliver a wonderful combination of sound and movement to a space, which in turn enhances the contemplative and restful atmosphere of the garden,' explains garden designer and landscaper Peter Reader .

'In this design for the Four Seasons show garden, the rill was constructed using honey colored Cotswold stone, which is a perfect foil for both the water and the plants. The naturalistic, aromatic planting style enhances the sensory, restful space.'

Rills can be constructed many different materials, and can work in both courtyard or larger gardens, one of many sensory garden ideas that can fill an outdoor space with sound and movement.

'Consider carefully where to site a rill to get the best from it. The principle of water, hardscape and planting is a winning combination, so trimming the design back to a single rill can be just as effective,' explains Peter.

3. Punctuate hard landscaping with garden pools

(Image credit: Peter Reader Landscapes)

A pool can create a strong focal point in a garden and can be formal or more natural in design.

Formal pools often look better positioned close to a house. 'This semi-formal pool in a walled garden is a lovely visual focal point for the garden, enticing you out into the space from the house,' explains Peter Reader.

'Consider the position of the pool carefully, particularly in relation to how much sun it might receive, or where leaves might drop directly into it, as well as the views to and across it,' Peter adds.

Consider also whether it can be placed so that it delivers lovely reflections of surrounding planting or the sky on its surface.

'It is important to bear in mind the practicalities of keeping a pool healthy and attractive. Pools are living biomes where various factors must be managed to prevent problems such as blanket weed algae creating problems. Take advice from someone who understands the natural processes of water management,' says Peter.

4. Add sound and movement with a garden fountain

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

Garden fountains are dynamic water feature ideas that bring both sound and the visual impact of moving water to a garden.

They come in a wide range of possibilities, from a gentle trickle of water to a more dramatic, gushing flow. 

'The sound of water contributes greatly to the atmosphere it creates,' explains Helen Elks-Smith.

The calculations for pumps and filtration on larger or more detailed garden fountains may require the involvement of a water engineer.  

'You will need a power supply if you have a pump and are creating a flow of water. Pumps can be noisy and filtration units can be large depending on the size of the water feature, so location needs to be considered carefully,' explains Rosemary Coldstream.

Fountains work well in ponds, but as a general guide the pond should be at least twice as wide as the height of the water jet to avoid water waste or surrounding surfaces getting wet.

Alternatively, self-contained fountains require little or no excavation work and more often than not do not need to be installed by a specialist.  'Self-contained fountains need to be sited on a level footing, such as a patio, avoiding grass or undulating ground and work well in courtyard gardens, ' explains Nicola Clements of Haddonstone .

'It's best to try to avoid positioning your fountain under trees or tall shrubs as fallen leaves, branches and garden debris can cause algae build-up, harm to fish or clog the pump,' Nicola adds.

5. Introduce water to a small space with a water bowl

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

One of the simplest ways to introduce water to your outdoor living room ideas is with a water bowl or dish. Any shallow container will work, but choose one that can be cleaned easily as they can become green with algae.

'Small bodies of water heat up quickly, so if you don’t want to spend time constantly cleaning the water, it is essential to consider where it is positioned in terms of sunlight,' says Helen Elks-Smith.

Add aquatic plants to help to keep the water naturally clean and also encourage wildlife. 

Stone bowls, metal dishes, weathered steel dishes, recycled containers and all manner of objects can be turned into water features. Select one that is in keeping with the style of your house and garden. 

Where possible, when topping up the water, try to use collected rainwater or tap water that has stood for a few days to allow some of the chemicals to evaporate.

'If you’re using a still water feature, consider positioning it near trees so that you can see fantastic reflections on a calm day,' says John Wyer.

6. Add interest with a water feature sculpture

(Image credit: David Harber)

More stylized water feature ideas include sculptures or artwork.

These can often be used to lead the eye to a focal point or view, and can be constructed from a variety of materials, including steel, stone or even recycled materials to create distinctive, sculptural creations.

In this Filigree Water Wall by David Harber , water flows behind an irregular latticework of verdigris bronze.

'A water feature sculpture should react to and engage with the space it is commissioned for,' he explains.

Consider where the water sculpture will be positioned so that it can be enjoyed from many angles. 'Incorporating a water feature sculpture is often a softer choice than using other forms of garden sculpture, and also one that adds to the sensory experience of a garden,' says John Wyer.

7. Benefit your garden's ecology with a wildlife pond

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

Wildlife ponds can work in gardens of different sizes and styles and are excellent wildlife garden ideas to attract an array of creatures, from insects and birds, to amphibians and mammals.

Generally a more organic shape than a formal pool, wildlife ponds tend to be better positioned in quieter corners of the garden where the wild visitors will not be disturbed.

'Larger ponds should be positioned in a naturally low point in the garden to look right. Include aquatic plants in the water and marginals around the edge,' explains Rosemary Coldstream.

Include oxygenating plants, floating aquatic plants in aerated baskets and boggy marginal options to soften the edges. Select those that suit the climatic and soil conditions.

The ideal location is in part sun and part light shade. 'If the wildlife pond is located too near to trees, they can throw much of it into shade, dead leaves will need clearing and rotting leaves can release gases harmful to fish,' explains gardening writer and photographer Leigh Clapp.  

Dig the pond to different water depths to attract a variety of wildlife, including at least one slope for allowing easy access and exit.

8. Introduce a water table to dining areas

(Image credit: Bowles & Wyer)

Water table garden features, with the meditative, gentle trickling of water over the sides, can add to the ambiance of your outdoor dining ideas.

'Consider nestling this water feature idea within a seating area and use it as a central focal point which captures attention,' advises John Wyer.

This simple, semi-elevated water table is made from Cumbrian slate, and the water spills over the sides in curtains.

'This courtyard has an almost Middle Eastern atmosphere, so the modest water feature and sound of trickling water seemed like the perfect placement here,' adds John.

Water tables can come in a variety of shapes and materials. Many will suit a more contemporary garden setting, although a stone design can be incorporated in a traditional garden design.

9. Create drama with a waterfall 

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

Waterfalls are a wonderful way to a sensory delight to the garden, and can be simple or complex water feature ideas as you wish.

The location, size and maintenance of a waterfall feature should be considered at the outset. Pumps will be needed to circulate the water, so this will require access to a power source.

'It is best to work with both a designer and a water specialist or good landscaper depending on the scale of the water feature,' advises Rosemary Coldstream.

As well as the cascading structure for the waterfall itself, you need to remember the pool into which the water flows.

10. Maximize a sloping site with a stream

(Image credit: Elks-Smith Garden Design)

Some gardeners may be lucky enough to have a natural stream in their backyard, which they can draw attention to with beautiful marginal planting and placement of seating areas to enjoy the soothing effects of the running water.

You needn't be on a hill to take advantage of this most exciting of sloping garden ideas – even shallow banks can be used to create a manmade stream with a natural flow of water.

'There needs to be a slope for the water to go down, and the top and bottom of the stream need basins for the water to collect, ' explain the experts at Premier Ponds & Lighting .

Lining the base of the stream with slate or stone, such as in this design by Helen Elks-Smith, creates an attractive bed glimpsed through the water, 'and can also become home to beneficial bacteria that help clean the water and fight algae,' add the experts at Premier Ponds.

11. Install a birdbath to attract wildlife

(Image credit: Getty Images)

A feature birdbath will encourage wildlife into the garden. Songbirds need to bathe and drink, and it is a joy to watch them alighting on the rim of a birdbath, dipping their beaks in the water, or plunging in for a splash.

This is the perfect solution for a courtyard garden, or can be used to create a focal point among garden beds. As there is no requirement to instal pumps or filters, it is also the least disruptive to an existing garden design.

When adding a birdbath to your garden, consider that birds don't bathe in deep water, 'so keep the level of water in your birdbath to about two inches or less,' advises the experts on the Bird Watcher's Digest .

If the surface inside is too smooth, add in some pebbles to give them something to grip on.

Place it where it can be seen from the house so that you can enjoy the spectacle of birds enjoying this water feature year round.

How do you make an easy water feature?

To make an easy garden water feature, include a water bowl, water dish, or a birdbath.

You could also try a rock bowl, which is perfect for a paved courtyard or patio setting. Simply fill an attractive bowl or pot with rocks and pebbles, or use a collection of low bowls or shallow dishes for added impact,' advises gardening writer Leigh Clapp.

Many decorative containers, such as troughs, wooden barrels, or recycled metal buckets, can also be turned into small water feature ideas, suitable for aquatic plants.

No water feature is maintenance free, but careful planning can make it easier. There are a number of practical matters to consider, such as:

Can I install a water feature myself?

Depending on the style of water feature that you choose for your garden, it can require expert installation. 

'While water features ideas may appear simple on the surface, there is often a lot more going on underground – they involve many technical and mechanical elements, from laying the pipes, to establishing the right water pressure,' explains John Wyer.

'Getting the water flow, filtration and waterproofing right are expert skills. It is best to work with both a designer and a water specialist or good landscaper depending on the scale of the water feature,' adds Rosemary Coldstream.

What plants look good around a water feature?

There are many options for aquatic and marginal plants that will elevate a water feature and help it to blend in with the garden setting.

For plants that float on the water, there are many varieties of water lilies, including dwarf and large forms, that flower from spring to summer.

For marginal plants, gunnera are large architectural plants that thrive in moist, boggy soil, while ostrich ferns grow in shady, damp areas. 

If you're seeking colorful blooms, there are species of iris that grow in shallow water and pond margins, and daylilies are ideal for bog gardens, flowering from June to September.

Rachel is senior content editor, and writes and commissions gardening content for homesandgardens.com, Homes & Gardens magazine, and its sister titles Period Living Magazine and Country Homes & Interiors. She has written for lifestyle magazines for many years, with a particular focus on gardening, historic houses and arts and crafts, but started out her journalism career in BBC radio, where she enjoyed reporting on and writing programme scripts for all manner of stories. Rachel then moved into regional lifestyle magazines, where the topics she wrote about, and people she interviewed, were as varied and eclectic as they were on radio. Always harboring a passion for homes and gardens, she jumped at the opportunity to work on The English Home and The English Garden magazines for a number of years, before joining the Period Living team, then the wider Homes & Gardens team, specializing in gardens.

17 Outdoor Fountain Ideas - How To Make a Garden Fountain for Your Backyard

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Add a soothing water structure to your backyard without breaking the bank.

By Madison Alcedo and Jenae Sitzes

At Charlotte's House/A Piece of Rainbow

Want to add a unique element to your backyard? Try a one-of-a-kind DIY water fountain! Water fountains have been a common feature in gardens of varying sizes since ancient times. The earliest account on record was a carved stone basin that dates back to around 2000 B.C. Most of the early versions of fountains were gravity based and relied on the natural flow of water from sources like rivers, lakes, and sometimes manmade aqueducts with basins to collect the water. At the time, modern plumbing and running water from faucets were not in existence.

Water was simply collected with buckets for a variety of essential purposes. People used these vessels out of necessity for drinking water, bathing, washing garments, and even faith-based ceremonies. However, ancients Romans started the trend of using fountains for decorative purposes in well-known places like Rome—the city of fountains. These days ornamental water fountains are commonly found in many locations like small home gardens and large public spaces.

You probably won't have room in your budget or backyard for fountain like the famous Italian Fontana di Trevi Fountain but we have plenty of pretty and budget-friendly DIY options for you to explore! From a charming fountain made from flower pots to a water wall that rivals store-bought renditions, these easy and unique projects will reinvigorate your garden like nothing else. Plus, check out more of our best backyard decorating ideas that will be sure to wow your guests during summer soirées.

Rustic and Refined

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Mixed Metal Water Fountain

Turn your fountain into a major outdoor focal point with the help of a few galvanized materials and greenery. Don't forget the matching watering can for the finishing touch.

Get the tutorial at Rustic and Refined.

The Interior Frugalista

2 of 17

Plant Pot Water Fountain

Clocking in only 15 minutes of prep time, this DIY flower pot fountain project is too good to pass up for your own backyard.

Get the tutorial at The Interior Frugalista.

A Piece of Rainbow

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Galvanized Bucket Solar Fountain

This DIY is one of our favorite uses for a leftover galvanized tub, especially given its easy transportation factor.

Get the tutorial at A Piece of Rainbow.

At Charlotte's House

4 of 17

Bubbling Water Fountain

Have an old globe lying around? You're all set with the perfect base for this tasteful round water feature that incorporates a solar water pump kit and concrete/mortar Quikrete mix.

Get the tutorial at At Charlotte's House.

Courtesy of Addicted 2 DIY

5 of 17

Tiered Flower Pot Fountain

Using some pots from Lowe's, a budget water pump, and some rocks from around her yard, blogger Katie created this simple, relaxing water fountain for her garden that birds can't get enough of.

Get the tutorial at Addicted 2 DIY.

Courtesy of Today's Creative Life

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Tiny Egg Fountain

This miniature fountain makes a perfect addition to a small deck and takes just 15 minutes to make with a small water pump.

Get the tutorial at Today's Creative Life.

RELATED: The Best Outdoor Fire Pits for Your Backyard

Courtesy of Interior Frugalista

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Patio Water Wall

This massive fountain won't come together quickly, but it's well worth the time and effort. Blogger Marie moved her water wall onto her deck so company could enjoy the relaxing sound of water while they chatted.

Get the tutorial at Interior Frugalista.

Courtesy of J. Paris Designs

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Blue Planters Waterfall

Let your fountain add a pop of color to your garden! This royal blue waterfall was crafted with three giant planter pots and a mini pond pump.

Get the tutorial at J. Paris Designs.

RELATED: Dreamy Ways to Use Outdoor String Lights in Your Backyard

Courtesy of Instructables

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Disappearing Water Fountain

If you love the gushing sound of a fountain but are less crazy about having an open pool of water in your yard (especially if you have children), this decorative rock fountain may be for you. Requiring easy-to-find materials, this fountain will cost you less than $200.

Get the tutorial at Instructables.

Courtesy of Instructables

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Three-Tier Fountain

This fountain looks fancy, but you can make it yourself using cheap items from a thrift shop. Depending on what found items you use, your fountain will have its own unique look.

Get the tutorial at Instructables.

BirdzOfAFeather

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Charming Water Feature

As seen on Hometalk, this spring-inspired water feature will add tons of curb appeal to your home.

Get the tutorial at Birdz of a Feather.

Hometalk

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Tea Pot Fountain

Add a piece of DIY decor to your garden or backyard with this fountain made from an iron tea pot and an old whiskey barrel.

Get the tutorial at Hometalk.

RELATED: New Ways to Landscape Your Yard

Tatertots & Jello

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Recirculating Ceramic Pot Fountain

The sound of babbling water from this recirculating fountain fashioned from a submersible pump will instantly create a more relaxing atmosphere in your outdoor space.

Get the tutorial at Tatertots & Jello.

Courtesy of Central Texas Gardener

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Circular Water Wall

Turn a recycled table top into a beautiful water wall for your garden.

Get the tutorial at Central Texas Gardener.

Courtesy of Instructables.com

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Rock Fountain

This DIY with a submersible pump might take you a couple of days to finish, but the finished product—look at those stacked stones!—will be worth the effort.

Get the tutorial at Instructables.

Sophisticated Junkie

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Watering Can Fountain

This cool-looking fountain made from recycled watering cans and a wash bin is the perfect addition to a country garden.

Get the tutorial at Sophisticated Junkie.

Courtesy of SAF Affect

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Bamboo Fountain

15 Best Pergola Ideas for the Backyard

Madison Alcedo Assistant Editor Madison Alcedo was the Assistant Editor at WomansDay. com and Redbookmag.com.

Ponds in the garden - views, a selection of ideas with photos

If a pond appears in the garden, it quickly becomes a favorite place to relax. But how could it be otherwise? Nothing relaxes and soothes like the measured murmur of water, sunbeams jumping on the mirror of the pond, and watching the vibrant life of its inhabitants.

For those who dream of decorating their plot with a garden pond and are looking for interesting ideas, we have made a photo selection of a wide variety of water features - large and small, simple and complex, with stagnant and moving water, for classic and modern gardens. Watch, read, be inspired. nine0003

A tastefully designed pond will add charm and expression to any garden.

Follow us:

Formal style mini-pond

If there is not enough space on the site, you can limit yourself to arranging a small pond in the paving opening. It is given the correct geometric shape (in our case, a circle), the bowl is deepened, and the edges are brought to the same level with the surface of the site. The coastline is “dressed” in concrete, stone, along the perimeter they are decorated with paving slabs, porcelain stoneware. Such an object is suitable for a garden decorated in a regular or modern style. nine0003

Water callas and pink nymphs, combined with strict forms, make this pond stylish and elegant. Naturalness is given to it by the natural configuration of the coastline, the rocky slope, and the sandbank filled with river pebbles. The landscape is complemented by mountain pines, chic hosta bushes, ornamental grasses and aquatic plants. And even the paving is chosen in such a way that its terracotta color is in harmony with the natural color of the stones. nine0003

For arrangement of an artificial pond, choose the lowest place where water from the entire area will flow

Decorative pond with a waterfall

Ponds with waterfalls have a special attraction due to the movement and sounds of flowing water. Watching how it falls from ledge to ledge, foaming, raising cascades of spray, you can endlessly.

This reservoir rises from the top of the hill and flows down the terraces into a small pond adjacent to the patio. For the construction of retaining walls, platforms and paving, natural stone of warm color was used. Grasses and ground cover plants beautifully shade it and give the landscape a natural look. Such a water body is an ideal solution for areas with height differences. nine0003

The recreation area below is a great angle to admire the waterfall

Garden pond with lilies

A tiny homemade pond with a stream flowing into it is a small but rather deep bowl decorated with stones and pebbles. Water from it with the help of a pump goes to the "source" of the stream and returns to the pond again. The main decoration of this source is water lilies, the underwater part of which provides food for fish and other aquatic inhabitants.

The smaller the body of water, the easier it is to take care of it

Stream to the garden

The stream that crosses this garden has turned an ordinary lawn into a flowering meadow. Moisture-loving irises and sedges are planted at the water's edge, a little further - various perennials. The bed and banks of the spring are lined with stone and pebbles, and a small depression starting from the source ensures the natural movement of water. In order for the system to work, it is looped using carefully disguised hoses and pumps.

Stones blocking the stream serve as a bridge and at the same time increase the pressure of the water when moving

Ornamental swamp

If the site has wet places with close groundwater, a decorative swamp can be created here. The main feature of such a water body is a minimum of water and a large collection of marsh plants. The stone is used only to decorate the coast adjacent to the recreation area or observation deck.

Make a drain from the plot towards the swamp, and it will naturally fill with water

Large pond in the shape of a lily leaf

The ornamental pond shown in the photo is framed by tiles that connect the shoreline to the patio. From here you can see a beautiful garden composition located on the opposite bank. The heart-shaped shape of the reservoir echoes the leaves of the nymphaeum water lilies growing in the pond.

A small submersible fountain in the center of the pond creates beautiful ripples on the water

Japanese style garden pond

A small but deep pond with traditional Japanese maples, ferns and grasses growing right at the water's edge, suitable for a Japanese style garden corner . The authenticity of the landscape is given by koi carps swimming in picturesque flocks, a decorative stone lantern, and a statue of a heron. nine0003

A pond hidden in the depths of the plantations is a real surprise for guests relaxing in the garden

A pond with a bridge

A small garden pond overgrown with aquatic plants sounded new thanks to a wooden bridge thrown over it. It connects two footpaths approaching the water body from different directions. But most importantly, how pleasant it is to sit on such a bridge on a hot summer day, putting your feet in the water and enjoying the coolness!

Bridge over the water. Footpath during the day and a "stage" for a choir of frogs singing evening serenades

Landscaping project
by Sad-dizain

Details

Decorative pond with a “floating” stone path

With the help of lamellar stones, a fairly complex water body was built, consisting of two tiers and a stone path laid through the “shallow water”. Fish live in the deeper part of the pond. Aquatic and coastal plants give the landscape a natural flavor, and only containers with bright colors remind us that we are in the garden. nine0003

When setting up a pond with fish, take care of the backwater where it will winter.

Variant with a berth

Two wooden piers that reach almost to the middle of the pond give a highlight to this geometric pond. This is a great place to watch dragonflies hovering over the surface of the water, nimble water striders and other aquatic inhabitants.

The pond consists of a deeper central zone and shallow water at the edges, planted with plants

Crystal clear pond with fish

In order to be able to admire the swimming fish, this pond has a high-quality filtration system and a decision has been made to abandon aquatic plants. The green component is offset by a large number of plants in the coastal zone.

Pond integrated into the terrace structure

Who said that a pond should be an independent object? In this photo we see an example of how successfully three water mirrors are combined with the decking of the terrace. Together with the strict lines of paving and cubic garden furniture, they emphasize the modern design of the garden. nine0003

Minimum space and maximum pleasure - this is the result of the implementation of such an idea

Architectural waterfall

A stone wall with jets of water flowing into a small pool is an excellent solution for decorating a recreation area. Benches located at the foot of the pond will become an original place for friendly conversations or even fun parties.

The water curtain also has a utilitarian purpose - it increases the air humidity in the garden

As you can see, the choice of water objects for the garden is huge. But having set out to build a reservoir on the site, you must understand that it is technically difficult to do this. Especially when it comes to a large pond with a waterfall or stream. In addition, it requires serious maintenance during operation, otherwise the water will quickly deteriorate and spread an unpleasant odor. nine0003

Nothing like this will happen if, when ordering a landscape design project, you include this object in the plan and entrust its development and construction to specialists.

For those who are not afraid of large amounts of work and technical nuances, we are attaching a video about the construction of a pond with your own hands.

Pond on the site: Ornamental pond, photos and ideas

Many refuse to build a decorative pond. Say, there is so little space on the site, and the reservoir will take up too much of it. However, in reality, a pond in the country, on the contrary, helps to create the illusion of space and play to increase the size of your garden. We continue to comprehend the basics of landscape design. nine0003

Catfish Studio Limited

Why do you need a decorative pond in the country

A pond can become an organizing center for several functional areas, which will be located along its banks.

The coastline serves as a hook for the eye, controlling its movement and, leading it from one key compositional point to another, allows you to organize and expand the visual image of the garden. nine0003

The pond complicates the relief, makes the space more diverse, saturates it with accents, making it psychologically appear larger.

BPS International GmbH

Water acts as a reflective surface, multiplying the images of objects. The combination of water surface and translucent depth makes the space multifaceted. nine0003

The shape and design of the reservoir allow you to show the stylistic possibilities of the garden, create a unique imagery.

A decorative pond can perform a quite pragmatic function of draining the site.

SEE ALSO…
Moisture for good: Dealing with a wet wetland

Lee's Oriental Landscape Art

Thus, the organization of a reservoir in a small area is an effective decorative, planning and stylistic device. In this case, of course, it is worth considering the scale. Coordinate the scale of all elements: the size of the reservoir, the indentation and detailing of the coastline, the materials and elements of the decoration of the coast, the bottom and the surrounding space, the plants represented and nearby objects. At the same time, we are not talking about the mandatory construction of a large pond or fountain. Even small and miniature ponds will allow you to bring the decorative and functional benefits of a water feature to a small area, or help create a unique atmosphere in a separate corner of a large garden. nine0003

SEE ALSO
The Illusion of Enlargement: 10 Ways to Make Your Garden Look Bigger

Harold Leidner Landscape Architects

Circular Pond
If you plan your lot regularly, a round pond will make a great accent. He will emphasize the correctness, balance of space, symmetry. However, you should not limit the placement of a round reservoir only to a regular garden. It will also help to create images in a romantic spirit: it is good to use even very tiny ponds in such compositions. The miniature size in this case will additionally emphasize the correct round shape. nine0003

Regular shape
Regular classic shape can be an alternative to a round pond in symmetrical compositions. Made of concrete, finished with stone or mosaic, such a decorative pond will decorate a recreation area or a platform in front of the house. And thanks to the complex bizarre shape, the figured pond looks very decorative and attracts the eye, even if its size is not at all large.

Howard Design Studio

Broadleaf Landscape Architecture

Rectangular pond
Most often used in symmetrical classical compositions. Just like round ponds, rectangular ones fit well into the image of an old romantic garden, contrasting with the chaotic masses of overgrown stems, leaves and flowers with their regular shape.

Rectangular decorative ponds are also very effective when creating asymmetrical geometric compositions and laconic minimalistic spaces. A miniature rectangular reservoir filled with pebbles can be made, for example, the center of a flower garden, a whole group of reservoirs can be placed along the path, or the entrance to one or another area of ​​the garden can be limited with a pair of such reservoirs. Ponds of more complex geometric shapes will also look good in such compositions. nine0003

Garrett Churchill Inc.

Grant and Power Landscaping

Natural form
Ponds of natural forms give wide scope for fantasy in geometry and decoration. However, they do not necessarily require a large space. Such reservoirs, decorated with flagstone or cobblestones, give the eye a lot of visual hooks. Complemented with a bridge and arrays of plants, an ornamental garden pond will look much larger than it really is.

Tip: Various details and sculptural elements create additional visual accents and set the stylistic mood. Use them in both landscape and regular ponds.

Stream or canal
A beautiful water body that does not need a large area can become a stream or canal. With its help, you can delimit the space, highlight any zone. You can make it the center of the composition or place it along a flower garden, path or alpine slide. And in addition to the aesthetic, such a stream will effectively perform a drainage function. nine0003

Cascade-type pond
The organization of the cascade does not require much space, but thanks to the flowing water and more complex composition, such a reservoir will appear larger. And the sound of flowing water diversifies the audio climate of the space. If there is no natural stream and relief differences on the site, you will need a pump to build a cascade. It is possible to install a closed system with continuous circulation. Such a pond in the country (photo above) will be the highlight of the landscape design of your garden. nine0003

Cultivart Landscape Design

Container Ponds
If you are still not ready to set up a full-fledged pond on your site, a container pond can replace it. It will bring the imagery of the aquatic environment to your garden and will be the basis for a miniature water garden.

The choice of container for such a reservoir is varied. It can be completely different both in form and in material. The container in this case itself performs a pronounced decorative role. When choosing a container for your mini-pond, coordinate its shape, texture, surface color with the style and decorative features of the environment. nine0003

In general, almost any containers and vessels can be used for container ponds. In addition to flowerpots and flowerpots, old tubs, bathtubs and even boxes are suitable. The main thing is that they match your figurative idea. Waterproofing, if necessary, can easily be done by lining the inner surface of the container with a film.

It is worth cleaning the container mini pond several times during the summer. For the winter period, it is better to drain the water from it, and move the plants to a cool place - for example, to the basement. nine0003

Liquidscapes

Location options
The choice of the location of the reservoir should be taken very responsibly: its visual image and the necessary care will depend on this. When choosing a place, it is worth considering both functional and compositional factors.
If you have a relief, and even more so a damp area, it is better to choose the lowest point for the pond. In this case, it will take over the drainage function.

Consider lighting conditions. Decorative ponds are best placed in partial shade. The bright sun stimulates the growth of algae, and the deaf shade does not allow ornamental aquatic plants to develop. The location of the pond next to the trees creates the necessary partial shade and looks very beautiful, but adds to the effort of caring for the pond - you will have to regularly collect fallen leaves from its surface. nine0067 Surrounding elements are also important: reservoirs located next to a romantic fence or arrays of shrubs will look atmospheric.

The lawn, entrance area or front of the house is a classic place for a pond, applicable in both regular and landscape layouts. The water surface attracts the eye. It continues the plane of the lawn, and, at the same time, reflecting the sky, contrasts with it. The pond diversifies even a small area and makes it visually more spacious. nine0003

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Miniative pruads, miniature pruns, miniature glare and reflections.

Aquascape

The proximity of the reservoir and recreation area is perhaps the most traditional combination. Watching the water surface helps to relax, reflections, stones and plants create an expressive visual range. In addition, a comfortable microclimate is created near the water on a hot day. nine0003

The gazebo will be complemented by a landscape-shaped pond with beautiful aquatic plants. You can make it an elongated curved shape by placing a gazebo on the cape and throwing a decorative bridge there.

A romantic, secluded seating area that takes up very little space can be created by placing a swing or a bench near the pond.

Tip: It is better to place a gazebo or bench on the south side of the pond so that the sun's glare does not hit the eyes.

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Margie Grace - Grace Design Associates

A pool would be appropriate next to the seating area. If the size of the site does not allow you to place a pool for active swimming, do not be discouraged and arrange a small pond for relaxation. For example, in fact, the container pond shown in the photo acts as a small pool, complementing the recreation area, limited on one side by a rock slide. A discreet decorative touch is the wooden material of the bowl. nine0003

Garcia Rock And Water Design

A pond located in the very center of the garden creates a very beautiful image, even if it is quite small. The trees reflecting in the water and the branches descending to the surface look natural and romantic, but add the work of cleaning the leaves. And here, just the small size of the pond will play into your hands: it is much easier to remove leaves from the water surface of a small reservoir.

A regular-shaped pond is well complemented with even rows of cut trees, weeping or standard forms. Shrubs will also become excellent companions to the pond: place the pond against the background of a large group or plant low and creeping bushes along its banks. nine0003

Idea: If you add a reflective surface to a small pond, it will double its size and the depth of a small corner of the garden.

GardenWise

A body of water can be an effective zoning tool. A landscape-shaped pond will allow you to create capes or place benches and sun loungers along the banks. Emphasizes a turn or intersection of tracks.
Delineate zones with elongated rectangular shapes or encircle them with stream bends. Install footbridges to connect the platforms. The absence of a clear visual separation in terms of perception will again increase the space. nine0003

Idea: If it is not technically possible to zone the space with water, you can use an optical illusion for this purpose - a stone will replace a stream or a pond in the country: look for a photo and a description of the arrangement of "dry" reservoirs here.

John Davies Landscape

Simmonds & Associates, Inc.

An excellent couple is a reservoir with a retaining wall or an alpine slide. Such a neighborhood represents a variety of relief and multidirectional planes. This allows you to organize a multi-level space that looks more complex, seems larger than the area it actually occupies, and makes it possible to create spectacular cascades and waterfalls. nine0003

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Design
A purchased ready-made form can become the basis. Or you can designate the shape of the reservoir yourself. The bottom can be clay, lined with pebbles or cobblestones, but for a small pond it is convenient and economical to make a film base.

Huettl Landscape Architecture

On the basis of a film, pebbles and large stones, it is really possible to make an interesting reservoir, small in size, but complex in composition. Part of it can be filled with water and complemented by a cascade, and part can be a pebble beach. In combination with plants, this pond should look very decorative.
If you have small children, keep them safe. You can fence off the pond so that access to it is only under your supervision, or cover it with a net just below the surface of the water.

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California Waterscapes

Plant Selection
Plant aquatic species in the pond and decorate its banks with large single plants or flower beds.
When setting up a water garden in a small pond or in a container, you can plant sprouts directly in the soil laid on the bottom of the form, or place the plants in pots. To install them, you can use a special grid fixed in a pond, or place containers between stones. nine0003

Plant egg-pods ( lat. Nuphar ), water lilies ( lat. Nymphaea ), nymphaeum ( lat. Nymphoides ), water orontium ( lat. Orontiumaquaticum L. 19 lat. 19 lat. ).

When decorating the banks with plants, alternate large expressive bushes and low fill flowers and grasses. When planting them, try not to use too many tall plants - they should act as accents. For a small pond, one or two accent groups will be enough. Use species that in nature prefer the proximity of water bodies: irises ( lat. Iris ), loosestrife ( lat. Lythrum ), bathing suits ( lat. Сaltha ), reeds ( lat. Scirpus ), meadowsweet ( lat. Filipendula ), burdock ( lat. Spar2ар2 ), lat. Spar2ар2 marsh ( lat. Acoruscalamus L. ) and others.

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Ornamental ponds in the country - photos of Russian and foreign projects
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