Summer is almost here; however, the heat can be overbearing. Adding an outdoor water feature can be a complete game-changer for your summer. It’s the season’s secret to transforming your outdoors into a chill oasis of relaxation. These gems bring a refreshing ambiance that will make you the envy of the neighborhood.

Importance of Outdoor Water Features

When you step outside, you want more than just a pretty garden to admire. You yearn a sanctuary where you can unwind, sip on something delicious and embrace the sunshine. Outdoor water features are the move that can elevate your outdoor space. They bring a sense of tranquility and serenity that makes your stress melt away.

Outdoor water features act as focal points in your garden or yard, adding elegance and visual interest. They create a sense of harmony and balance, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The sound of trickling water has a calming effect on the mind. It helps alleviate stress.

Outdoor water features create a soothing — and Instagrammable — environment where you can unwind, meditate and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Here are some water features that you should add to enhance your backyard experience.

Water Fountains: The Melody of Serenity

Water fountains have long been admired for their ability to add elegance and a sense of tranquility to any outdoor setting. Whether placed in a garden, patio or courtyard, the gentle flow and soothing sound of a fountain can create a sublime setting.

Fountains come in a myriad of designs from classical to contemporary, allowing you to choose one that complements your style and preferences. The sound of water cascading over the fountain’s tiers or spouts provides a delightful backdrop. It drowns out unwanted noises and promotes relaxation.

Waterfalls: Nature’s Soothing Symphony

For those with larger outdoor spaces, a waterfall can be a breathtaking addition. The sight and sound of water gracefully tumbling down rocks can transport you to a natural wonderland. Creating a waterfall involves arranging rocks and stones in a cascading formation, simulating the beauty of a mountain stream.

The resulting water feature not only brings a sense of calm, but also adds visual appeal to your landscape. The serene sound of the cascading water can create a peaceful ambiance, while the cool mist it generates offers a respite from the heat.

Birdbaths: Nature’s Delight

Birdbaths not only serve as a refreshing water source for your feathered guests, but also look charming in your backyard. They come in various designs from classic pedestal styles to more elaborate and artistic forms.

By attracting birds, these water features add liveliness and natural beauty to your surroundings, while the sound of chirping and fluttering wings further enhances your outdoor experience.

Reflecting Pools: Mirrors of Tranquility

Reflecting pools are shallow bodies of water designed to create a mirror-like surface. They offer a sense of calm and serenity through the stillness and reflective qualities of the water.

Surrounded by carefully chosen landscaping, such as colorful flowers or lush greenery, reflecting pools can become captivating focal points in any outdoor setting. They provide a peaceful spot for self-reflection and meditation, while also reflecting the beauty of the sky.

Water Curtains: Visual Elegance and Cooling Bliss

Water curtains are unique outdoor water features that create vertical sheets of water flowing from a height. They can be created using pumps and nozzles, allowing water to cascade down in a continuous stream.

The sight of water gracefully falling creates a captivating visual effect, making these water features a stunning addition to patios, gardens or pool areas. The gentle mist generated by water curtains also helps in lowering the ambient temperature, making them perfect for beating the heat.

Pond or Water Garden: A Tranquil Oasis

A pond or water garden can provide a tranquil sanctuary within your outdoor space. These features can range from small, self-contained ponds to larger, ecosystem-based water gardens. Incorporating aquatic plants, such as water lilies or lotus flowers, adds color and vibrancy, while the gentle movement of water is relaxing to be near.

You also could add fish to enhance the tranquility. A bridge or stepping stones can be placed strategically to create a sense of enchantment and invite exploration. The combination of shimmering water, lush greenery and the occasional glimpse of fish gliding beneath the surface creates a calming and captivating outdoor experience.

Water Misters: Refreshing Respite

While not considered a traditional outdoor water feature, water misters offer an innovative way to cool outdoor spaces during hot summer months. By releasing a fine mist of water into the air, they create a refreshing and cooling effect. Water misters can be attached to patio covers, pergolas or other structures. The mist envelops the surroundings, providing relief and creating a comfortable environment for relaxation and outdoor activities.