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10 Water Features to Make Any Backyard Landscape Complete

Sink a Pond

Who wants an indoor aquarium when there are backyard koi ponds waiting to be built?! If you would like one for yourself, there are many DIY kits available—or hire a landscapedesigner who specializes in these peaceful ponds. But beware: Koi are playful and mesmerizing, but they’re not low maintenance. Make sure you understand their needs before taking on a koi pond.

Custom Creek

You can build your own DIY creek, like the one shown here, with some concrete, gravel, PVC pipe, and a recirculating pump. Strategically placed stones guide the water to a retaining pool, where it is pumped back up to the top of the creek. This would be a smart choice for a distinctive garden border.

Add a Birdbath

Hands down, the most common backyard water feature is the noble birdbath. But why settle for a garden-variety bath when you could have a fountain, too? This two-tier design conceals the pump in its hollow core and operates by solar power. Great for the birds, for you, and the environment.

Water Wall

A water wall is a great way to create shade, divide an outdoor space, or add a dramatic accent to your backyard landscape. Although it looks like a custom design, this copper water wall is actually a do-it-yourself project. Details, materials, and step-by-step instructions can be found here.

Against the Wall

Do you crave a fountain but have limited square footage? Make use of your wall space! This French-inspired Tivoli Loire limestone-finish fountain is a great way to add romance to any garden, courtyard, or balcony. Made from fiberglass, it comes complete with a water-recirculating pump.

Build a Waterfall

If you're longing for the soothing appeal of falling water, consider making—or buying—a backyard waterfall. While there are numerous designs available at home improvement and garden centers, with a little bit of imagination and basic plumbing skills, you can bring your own design to life.

Let It Rain

This unique water screen was created by running a water line along a top beam. Water rains down to a trough and is then recirculated back to the top beam through a pipe for perpetual showers. You can do something similar with wood framing construction or even exposed pipes for a more industrial look. 

Formal Focus

If you're looking to create a dramatic focal point in your garden, courtyard or entryway, consider this arresting design. An oversize, urn-shaped fountain, anchored in its own reflecting pond, commands attention. Bring together a fountain, a few pavers, and concrete, and you could be on your way to creating a similarly dramatic statement.

Pond in a Pot

A water feature doesn’t need to be big. A garden pond pot filled with aquatic plants and water will mostly take care of itself. Just add fresh water, and let nature do the rest. Use a shallow bowl or container to make your own pond-in-a-pot. Then sit back and enjoy the oasis.

Outdoor Shower

The ultimate water feature is one you can step right into! If you can't afford an outdoor spa, abackyard shower provides a liberating alternative to your daily shower routine and lets you extend the pleasure outdoors.