Water Features for Small Gardens

Water features and garden fountains add charm and personality, so you can stylise your home outside as well as in.

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Water features in large gardens and stately homes have always been designed to impress but small garden water features are definitely worth their place. And although most suburban gardens can't hope to emulate the scope and scale of these show-stopping installations, it's eminently possible to recreate the same sense of serene, flowing wonder on a smaller scale.

Why introduce a water feature to your garden?

Water and gardens have always gone hand-in-hand. That's partly because gardens are a place to indulge your senses, boasting gorgeous and alluring sights, sounds and scents.

Water has a particular sensory value with its ability to soothe and calm, but fountains and other water features have their roots in their practical application, too. All plants need water, and some of the lushest, most attractive greenery, grows best in close proximity to a bountiful water source. Ponds and pools will also attract wildlife to create a rich landscape.

Things to consider

Planning is everything! The main issues to consider when designing your water feature concern its site and situation, but there are other things to think about, too.

Practicality: Is the proposed position for your water feature within reach of power and water supplies?

Exposure: Hot sun and billowing winds can reduce water levels dramatically, meaning you'll need to top up your water far more frequently. Try to avoid areas exposed to extreme heat or draughts if possible.