Backyard Water Zen: Waterfalls

What is more relaxing than the sound of running water? There are so many creative ways you can incorporate water features into the layout of your home’s exterior to bring peace to your outdoor space and create a truly beautiful backyard oasis. What is more relaxing than the sound of running water? There are so many creative ways you can incorporate water features into the layout of your home’s exterior to bring peace to your outdoor space and create a truly beautiful backyard oasis.

The ultimate outdoor water feature for many homeowners is a natural waterfall and pond. From a design perspective, you don’t need a tremendous amount of space. Just enough to create a slope with rocks for the waterfall and a small area for a pond at the base. Of course a good designer will create something that fits with your yard, your home and your lifestyle.

A circulation system is installed that pulls the water from the pond base and goes up and over the waterfall. Light features and even music can be added for a more dramatic effect. A natural waterfall creates the most authentic look and feel, but there are other options as well.

If you want a less complicated option, consider a pond without a showcase waterfall. You will still want some type of circulation feature so the water doesn’t become stagnant and attractive to mosquitoes. Once your pond is in place, you can create a habitat for koi fish, frogs and other critters to live. One note here: Ponds do require some maintenance once they are installed, but the benefits far outweigh the upkeep

If you have a family with small children, you may prefer a waterfall that doesn’t have a pond at its base. This option works the same as the water garden concept, except the area at the base is a deep (rather than wide) hole filled with gravel where the water is then gathered and recirculated.

Are you on a smaller lot or do you have limited space? There are plenty of options for you too. Fountains can be built in various sizes and prices and easily fit onto a deck or patio. Some are solar operated, others electric. Want to add a zen musical touch? Consider a water bell fountain in which small brass chimes gently clink when moved by the flow of the fountain

There are so many different choices when it comes to outdoor water features. Start exploring today and gain some zen in your backyard!