Choosing a Garden Water Feature
Water has featured in garden design for centuries, from traditional fountains to modern water walls all fit into the general meaning of water features.
It is the variety of designs and uses that make the use of water such a versatile design element, and landscapers and gardeners alike do love the calming nature of flowing water.
From tranquil ponds and small streams to large fountains, waterfalls, wall mounted designs and traditional rills, all using a wide range of materials.
Rock and stone, combined with plants create a traditional or natural look and are always popular.
The use of glass and metal gives a water feature a contemporary look, while materials such as bamboo can give a garden a Japanese or Balinese look.
The flow of water in a garden can have many effects, the soothing flow of a stream or small fountain is popular. The visual effects of fountains or waterfalls sometimes highlighted at night create a different feeling.
We look at a range of traditional and contemporary water feature designs to help provide inspiration for your own garden design.
With so many water features and fountains for the Australian garden and patio, choosing the right design and style is simple if you follow a few basic steps. Rather than buying the best-looking design you see at the first shop, start by defining where you wish to make this a showpiece.
What you choose for a large garden will be different to a feature for a courtyard garden where space is limited.
Water features not only add a focal point to any garden they can also help create a soothing and relaxing atmosphere. They attract birds, bees and can even be a habitat for frogs.
Types of Water Features
- Fountains:
Fountains are perhaps the classic water features. The have been a part of garden design for centuries and come in various sizes and styles.
Classical large tiered fountains are a favourite in large gardens however they can can also take pride of place in a courtyard.
Smaller fountains can be used in many spaces, including balconies, small corners or nooks in the garden and are an economical way to add interest to the garden. - Ponds and Lakes:
Most of us do not have natural ponds or lakes, however they can be created. Ponds in particular can be a great focal point in a garden, they also provide habitat for frogs as well as water loving plants. - Waterfalls:
In the garden they can be an added feature both for ponds and other water features. The gentle sound of falling waters can create a sense of tranquility in any garden. - Streams:
Again you have to be lucky yo have a stream or creek, however small streams can be created, recirculating into ponds or other water features.Rills are an alternative, a simple stone rill that recirculates the water can be very effective.
- Water Walls:
A modern take on a waterfall. A created vertical surface that allows water to flow over the surface can be used outdoors, in courtyards or in the general garden against a wall or fence. - Reflection Pools:
These are still babies of water, perhaps just a large bowl designed to catch the light.
Freestanding or Wall-Mounted
Basically, all water feature designs are either free-standing or designed to be wall-mounted, and size will vary greatly. However, in a smaller garden, a wall-mounted design is an excellent space-saving solution.
Small free-standing designs are also available but think carefully about space.
Specialist Rock and Stone Water Feature Installations and Designsare dealt with separately.
Installing Garden Water Features
Two important aspects of an installation are the base or platform that the design will sit on and the availability of power.
A firm, flat base is essential as they are designed to be installed on level ground. With wall-mounted designs, some are attached to the wall or fence itself, whereas others sit on the ground. If you attach it to a structure, you must ensure it is strong enough to take the weight.
In terms of power supply for the pump, you have three choices: mains power, low voltage power and solar-powered pumps. If you need to install mains power, this is usually the most expensive option. Solar power is cheap; however, it will not provide power for pumps at night or on cloudy days without a battery backup, which will add to the price.
Consider installing garden lighting at the same time, as it will be cheaper than doing it later and provide a visual impact in the evenings.
Maintenance
Over time a build-up of dirt and algae will occur, especially in the garden where leaf litter and debris can be a problem. A few basic maintenance tips can help keep things working well and looking good.
You may notice that the water flow is slowing, which is often an indication that the pump filter is partially blocked. It might be debris or algae.
Algae can be controlled by providing shade as algae needs the sun to grow. Changing the water every four weeks will also help keep the water clean. It is wise every three months to give the whole thing a good scrub and clean.
Water features are wonderful additions to any garden. Choose the right design, install it properly and keep it clean.
ContemporaryDesigns
Modern designs are needed to add a sense of tranquillity to the newly designed courtyard or garden. From a small reflective bowl to a contemporary, slumped glass fountain or natural rock water wall, all have a place in the garden of today. In many cases, you can buy direct from the importer or manufacturer.
Suppliers in Sydney will vary state-to-state, from local retailers to online suppliers from interstate.
Wall-mounted designs are popular in Australia. Do-it-yourself (DIY) projects are possible with low-voltage pond pumps available from specialist suppliers. A huge range of underwater, outdoor and garden lighting suitable for highlighting a fountain or pond is also available.
Design Styles and Materials include:
- Glass – for a modern contemporary look, glass is fantastic.
- Copper – has a more rustic look than metal.
- Pools – water entering a pool or swimming pool can be made into a feature.
- Small garden features – popular in inner city units, small water sculptures and walls are cheap and easy to install.
ContemporaryDesigns
These include the increasingly popular
Balinese style designs
Rockand Stone
Rock waterfalls for traditional and contemporary gardens.
It is possible to build your own.
Certainly, you will need a pump, and then the rest is up to you. Just about anything can be used to make an individual and unique addition to your garden.
There are 17 Online Water Feature suppliers located with many different designs for sale around Australia. If you are looking for a local supplier with various designs for sale in Australia, this is the right section.
Our listed Suppliers in Melbourne have a full range of designs for sale direct to the public that will meet your requirements. Browse and buy online.
