These fountains, ponds, and pools offer inspiration to match any style, ranging from naturalistic to modern.
Make a splash in your garden byadding a water feature.
Rippling water and soft sprays will make your backyard seem cooler, while giving it a calming feel.
Credit: Kritsada Panichgul
Small Rustic Water Garden
Add somefarmhouse chic to your landscapewith this simple backyard water feature.
A wooden half-barrel pairs well with a weathered water pump as a fountain.
Add a few small water plants such as water lettuce if you like.
Credit: Laurie Black
A fountain with an organic finish like this stone one easily blends in with other outdoor elements.
Install itnear an outdoor seating areato get the most enjoyment out of it.
Modern Garden Pool
A narrow pool of water adds a bold element to any landscape.
Credit: Matthew Benson
Here, the mostly monochromatic color scheme complements the sleek style of the water feature.
Line the pool with repeating clusters ofplants such as evergreensandhostasto create a relaxing, symmetrical spectacle.
Add plants around the fountain that take advantage of the vertical space and make a more inviting scene.
Credit: Brie Williams
Add a Little Art
Figurines and other sculptures can help set the mood of aformal garden design.
As part of an outdoorgarden fountain, they become can’t-miss focal points in the landscape.
Natural Waterfall
If traditional fountains aren’t your thing, get back to nature.
Credit: Kindra Clineff
This waterfall created with large stones mimics what you might find in the wild.
Complete the naturalistic look byadding native plantsaround this rugged water feature.
Go with the Flow
If your yard has a natural slope, use it to your advantage.
Credit: Janet Loughrey
A hillside is the perfect place for adding a waterfall that trickles into a pond.
Here, adense mix of shade-loving plantsand a small seating area complete this water feature.
Break the mold with unique shapes or water sources like this shallow, half-circle pond.
Credit: Kim Cornelison
It offers wildlife a source of water while also providing the soothing sounds of splashing water.
Mixed Materials
Gardens are full of natural elements that can beused to create evocative decor.
Attract tons of birds (plus butterflies and other pollinators) byplanting seedy flowersandnative species nearby.
Credit: Edmund Barr
check that to situate your bird bath where you’re free to easily watch your winged visitors.
Grow a Water Garden
Expand your repertoire of plants in your yard with a water garden.
Beautifulaquatic blooms and fun foliagewill be a focal point.
Credit: Jon Jensen
Use a tub or a pond as the foundation which can be easily catered to your personal tastes.
Add a Splash of Color
Forsmall backyards and patios, a simple garden water feature can still be eye-catching.
This glazed ceramic dish and bowl hold just enough water to let sunlight glint off the surface.
Credit: Kindra Clineff
Here, a small waterfall trickles into a shallow pool.
It’s the perfect environment for a few potted plants such aspapyrusandcannathat like constant moisture.
Don’t Forget the Details
Small details can add visual interest to a big, bold water feature.
Credit: Laurie Black
Japanese Garden Inspiration
An above-ground bubbler fountain offers soothing sounds in this tranquilJapanese garden-inspired vignette.
Plants with interesting leaves such asJapanese maple,liriope, and clumping bamboo contribute authenticity.
Barrel of Joy
A repurposed metal drum makes a simple, sturdy water feature.
Credit: Kritsada Panichgul
Water pouring from the spout onto rocks below makes soothing sounds.
In this backyard, a fountain serves as a stunning centerpiece in a circular bedpacked with blooming perennialsand groundcovers.
Figure It Out
Enhanceyour water garden or pondwith a small figurine.
Credit: Jon Jensen
Let your personal style show by going with a cute or classy selection, or something in between.
Work in Whimsy
A unique decoration around the spigot of a fountain can elevate an otherwisesimple outdoor water feature.
Here, a fish-like creature adds an element of whimsy that draws the eye.
Credit: Laurie Black
Burst with Bubbles
A fountain doesn’t need to have a big splashy spray.
A more subtle bubbler also creates a soothing atmosphere as water gurgles and trickles from it.
This one’s simple round basin fits in easilyamong colorful plants.
Credit: Ed Gohlich
Stream Water Feature
Add graceful lines to your backyard with a gentle stream and walkway.
The wooden footpath mimics the curve of the water’s edge to soften the look of the backyard oasis.
Create visual interest with a mixture of foliage and flowers such aswater lilies.
Credit: Ed Gohlich
Go Vertical
Dress up a blank wall in your backyard with a vertical outdoor water feature.
Here, a stone fountain serves as an elegant focal point against avine-covered trellis.
A gentle fountain in the center creates ripples as water trickles down the sides.
Credit: Laurie Black
An adjacentconcrete planter echoes the shape and toneof the fountain’s base for pleasing continuity.
Credit: Carson Downing
Credit: Kritsada Panichgul
Credit: Bob Stefko
Credit: Ed Gohlich
Credit: Sherry Lubic
Credit: Jon Jensen
Credit: Janet Loughrey
Credit: Laurie Black
