As modern life becomes more hectic, with all of us multitasking, plugged in, and on call 24/7, a home oasis is increasingly important. I believe that adding a water feature can turn a plain outdoor living space into a calming getaway spot. The term water feature encompasses a wide variety of landscaping and décor options of all sizes.
Studies have shown that “blue space” or rivers, lakes and urban water features have positive impacts on health. No surprise, since “sea air” was prescribed as a cure for a variety of ailments by Victorian doctors.
Fountain
Different sizes of fountain are available to fit any space. You may choose a small tabletop fountain, or dedicate a large part of your yard to an elaborate installed fountain with multiple water jets and basins. If space is tight, you might want a water wall—a fountain of water that pours vertically down a sheet of glass or stone.
Versatile styles can be matched to any home’s architecture and decorative theme, whether you’re going for a zen garden or French palace look. Whatever your budget or style, you can find a fountain that will suit you.
In addition to its artistic beauty, a fountain adds a relaxing aural element, as the sound of flowing water creates a white noise that drowns out the clamor of our busy lives.
Small pond
Adding a pond gives an extra structural feature to your home’s landscape. By providing a focal point for your landscaping, a pond transforms a yard into an extraordinary experience. Koi add life and color, making it feel more like a natural pond. Combining floating plants like water hyacinth or lotus with tall reeds will create a dynamic view. For a larger pond, or two small ponds connected by a channel, it’s even possible to include a bridge, which defines different areas of the outdoor space.
Stacked-stone water feature
With all the benefits of a fountain, a stone arrangement has the added benefit of being attractive and artistic as an art piece while retaining a natural feel. Stones can be used to put a waterfall in your own back yard. This type of arrangement can be very contemporary, which will give your yard an upscale look. The trickling of water down the stones has a calming effect on the environment—and your spirit.
Bubbler
If you want the benefits of a fountain on a smaller scale, consider a bubbler. This is a type of fountain in which a single gentle stream of water bubbles to the top and then flows back down. Bubblers are great for small spaces, as they are usually designed with small basins. This makes them a low-maintenance option, perfect for people with busy lifestyles. Designs range from minimalist to ornate, and are available for almost any budget.
With the wide variety of water features available to choose from, you can find an option that will suit your space, your budget, and your personal style.
Photo Credits
Bubbler by Bruce Fingerhood on Flickr – Some Rights Reserved
All other photos By Megan Morris – All Rights Reserved
Guest Author Bio
Megan Morris
Megan Morris, founder and CEO of MHM Professional Staging, LLC. and MHM Celebrity Style Events, is an accomplished home staging and design professional, outstanding business leader, and best-selling author with a multitude of accolades to her credit. She is an Accredited Staging Professional® (ASP®), a member of the International Association of Home Staging Professionals® (IAHSP®), and a member of the Interior Redesign Industry® (IRIS®).
Website: MHM Professional Staging, LLC
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[…] in your outdoor space and turn it into a relaxing retreat. Like many homeowners, you added an outdoor water feature to create a soothing environment. Unfortunately, the mosquitoes also find it to be very […]