WATER FEATURES

Add a tranquil or dramatic element to your garden with water, providing a focal point and interest for wildlife

- RACHEL CROW

The addition of water adds to the sensory experience of a garden, altering the mood or bringing life and movement to even the smallest space. It can also act as a focal point for planting schemes and other design features. A fountain or cascade creates drama, while a reflective surface is calming. Adding aquatic and marginal plants will attract wildlife.

‘Water features don’t need to be complex – sometimes the simplest designs bring the most impact,’ says John Wyer, CEO of garden design company Bowles & Wyer.

There are, of course, practical matters to consider, such as how the feature will be powered; where the water will be pumped from or drain away to; the best location; how the natural light will interact with the water, and proximity to trees.

‘Additionally, consider if the water will be cleaned naturally with plants, or via a filtration system, and whether the water level will fluctuate with rainfall, or remain constant, requiring a water feed to top up,’ adds designer Rosemary Coldstream.

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