70 Wonderful Water Features for Any Budget

Water features enhance any outdoor space, even the front walkway! Here, visitors traverse across a bubbling pool on their way to the front door. Flanked by a variety of tropical landscape plants, the cheerful waterway creates a warm welcome for anyone entering this Florida home.

A tiered fountain is the focal point of this Mediterranean-style plaza. Surrounded by gravel pathways, this towering feature’s warm hues reflect the home's terra-cotta brickwork and shingles, reinforcing the courtyard’s theme. Visitors to the nearby pergola will enjoy the serene reverberations of the trickling water and the dazzling visual of the fountain itself.

This narrow pool mirrors the brilliant blue sky above, casting light across the courtyard. Incorporating reflecting pools into smaller gardens can drastically open up the space with the illusion of greater depth. When planning and installing the feature, be sure the surface isn’t obstructed by nearby hedges or tree limbs.

Bright spires of water mimic the movement of surrounding grasses in this exuberant landscape. These fountains are composed of large, repurposed stock tanks encircled by multilevel beds and native trees. Their cheerful simplicity feels right at home in this idyllic farmhouse setting.

A gorgeous copper water feature is the focal point at the center of this fun and eclectic backyard hangout. A wood structure lined with metal mesh screening encloses the rest of the outdoor area, making it the ideal spot to dine, relax and entertain. Vessels scattered throughout the courtyard hold plantings of various sizes and shapes, bringing life and color to the space.

The water flowing over this gorgeous limestone stone retaining wall is actually runoff from the dreamy infinity pool just beyond. Landscape lighting illuminates the small pool at the base of the wall and provides a romantic, ambient glow.

Set into an eye-catching wood privacy wall, a simple waterfall adds a peaceful touch to this modern backyard. Rows of succulents infuse vibrant color and are a beautiful contrast to the large boulders and accompanying rock garden. A nearby sitting area offers a place to contemplate the balanced arrangement and listen to the trickling waters.

Water features bring calm and beauty to any outdoor space, but funding them can be an expensive endeavor. Fortunately, with a little ingenuity and industrial-strength glue, fountain fans can build their own! Check out the step-by-step instructions below to learn how to easily craft a pretty DIY fountain from stacked ceramic planters.

This front door promenade is bordered by a rill filled with water lilies. Symbolic of peace and good fortune, the lilies produce gorgeous pastel blooms, acting as a welcome and a blessing for all who pass by. The entryway accent ensures a unique experience for visitors, while offering homeowners picturesque views from their front window.

A large, smooth stone serves as the base for this serene fountain set in a contemporary courtyard.

This feature was intentionally designed to blend aesthetically disparate elements into a unified, soothing visual. The waters flow over geometric edges and smooth stones, tying the dissimilar surfaces together. Bordered by soft grasses, this entryway addition beckons all who enter to pause and enjoy a moment of calm.

A small deck or yard doesn’t spell the end for water feature aspirations. Container water gardens like this one can be tailored to fit any space, making them ideal for a miniature patio. To make your own, simply fill a small saucer with some fresh H2O and an arrangement of water-tolerant grasses (like this Blue Mohawk soft rush and water hyacinth). Voila! A delightful, low-maintenance water feature for any space. Follow the link below for the step-by-step instructions.

A simple yet stunning concrete fountain looks far from stark when set among a row of pretty trees and lush plants. This design was created to bring life and interest to an otherwise blank retaining wall.

In this peaceful outdoor space, a raised fountain reflects the warm aesthetic of adjoining herb gardens while the repetition of materials and shapes throughout the space fosters a sense of harmony and balance. The combination of pleasant sights, sounds and scents makes this outdoor dining experience a sensory delight.

You don’t have to pay gallery prices to bring sculptural delights to your own garden or patio. At just over a foot tall, this piece introduces dynamic artistry to any outdoor living space. Made from durable steel, it boasts a 10-gallon water capacity and comes complete with pump and LED lighting that mimics flame at night. Follow the link below to purchase.

A funky galvanized barrel fountain feels right at home in this Texas side yard. The feature is set in view of a nearby screened-in-porch, adding to the tranquil appeal of the space. Bordered by cherry-laurel, this upcycled fountain ties in nicely with the home's rustic farmhouse style.

Step out onto the veranda of this home in Savannah, Georgia, and let the calm sounds of water — from the nearby Wilmington River and the softly bubbling fountain — soothe all your cares away.

There is something magical about traversing a stream, like crossing it transports you from the everyday drudgery into a fairytale. This custom stone bridge carries visitors to different areas of the backyard while the water beneath flows over natural stones and masonry walls that echo its construction. A surrounding landscape of diverse colors and textures encapsulates the passage in a storybook setting.

Running along the border of this cozy patio space, the organic lines of a manmade koi pond mimic a natural stream while tumbling water from a nearby retaining wall fountain contributes ambient sound and soft movement.

In a stunning departure from traditional koi ponds, an illuminated aquarium serves as the centerpiece of this artfully arranged backyard. Featuring hand-painted tiles and an assortment of glittering koi, the tank is a fanciful addition that adds a gorgeous splash of color to an otherwise muted landscape.

An abundance of water plants fills this small wetland pond with visual splendor. Hidden amongst them is a metal gazebo that provides a quiet place to admire the cottage-style garden. The intricate trellis work is accentuated by the flowering vines that tumble from the roof, tying the structure in with its organic surroundings.

Recessed lighting keeps this striking cascade front and center day and night. Bringing movement and soothing tones to the patio, the Corten Steel fountain lends the space a sophisticated, sculptural aspect. Playful plantings on top soften the edges and anchor the piece in the outdoor space.

Accompanied by a profusion of lush cottage landscape plants, a boulder-lined stream is the centerpiece of this resort garden.

A cobalt blue ceramic planter was outfitted with a fountain pump and set in a small bed of smooth garden stones to create a simple yet stunning water feature in this front yard.

A short drop doesn’t diminish the impact of this miniature waterfall. Tumbling over cut boulders and river stones, the waters seem to flow right to visitors’ feet. Ensconced in lush foliage, the proximity of the feature keeps the space feeling intimate and romantic.

Have a small deck or patio? This bamboo fountain by Susan Forint of Saf Affect will easily fit in your space. An inexpensive bamboo tiki torch finds new life as a water spout for the fountain.

This Wyoming ranch is permeated with running water. Built just above the water table, a continuous stream winds its way from the home’s front reflecting pool, down to a pond at the rear of the property. Traversing through stands of aspen trees, the sluiceway recalls local mining history and carries calming tones throughout the landscape.

A stone waterfall fountain featuring an intricately carved whimsical vine pattern creates a stunning focal point in this garden landscape, adding visual interest and texture to the outdoor space.

The courtyard of this palatial Hawaiian estate features an incredible oversized fountain with a sculptural canoe "afloat" in the middle. Surrounded by tropical plants, this courtyard centerpiece is a definite conversation starter.

A well-placed water feature adds beauty and elegance to any yard or garden. This self-contained waterfall takes up little space, but has a big impact. Bring beauty and tranquility to the yard with this weekend DIY project.

Balanced minimalism brings serenity to this outdoor living area. Water flows over stacked river stones into a circular pool, incorporating the elegance and quietude of the natural world. The stones themselves can be rearranged, introducing a dynamic aspect to the sights and sounds of the space.

Modernism meets waterscaping in this custom-designed feature. Water walls have gained steady popularity for their unobtrusive, sophisticated style. This unique piece utilizes a steel frame to keep unsightly plumbing hidden as water rains down treated brick to a pool. The clean lines and towering dimensions bring an artistic quality to the space that impresses without overpowering.

The minimalist approach of this courtyard serves to highlight its main event: a sleek obsidian reflecting pool that illuminates the space at night. Set against an almost entirely white palette, the sleek pool draws the eye and promotes a sense of calming stillness. A row of ferns set against the wall softens the lines of the space and offers a touch of color.

Right in front of a custom pavilion sits a large koi pond, shallow enough for kids to play in and deep enough for a private collection of koi. Native granite boulders and marginal plant material enhance the natural setting while helping to maintain the clarity of the water.

A trio of fountains spilling into a quiet pool gives this slim side yard the feel of an enchanted garden. The unadorned water feature and muted jewel-tone pool juxtaposes the richness of the surrounding foliage and offers the eye a resting place.

This gorgeous geometric fountain takes its inspiration from Moroccan tilework. Framed by low-branched olive trees, layers of climbing vines and ornamental grasses, the raised feature invites visitors to pause and enjoy the scenery. Pennsylvania Bluestone hardscaping carries the cool calming hues of the piece throughout the surrounding courtyard.

Concrete pavers mimic adjacent lily pads, seeming to float on the surface of this courtyard pond. The imaginative path adds an air of whimsy to the geometric layout of the outdoor space. Submerged lighting completes the fanciful design with layers of shimmering translucent color.

Two panes of glass mounted in a wood frame comprise this DIY water wall. Created by The Interior Frugalista, the project offers a stylish alternative to in-ground water features. The mesmerizing flow of its waters across the glass invites observers to pause for a moment’s meditation.

GET THE HOW-TO: DIY Water Wall

This little blue fountain brings all the charm of a koi pond with none of the maintenance. Perfect for a patio or nestled amongst in-ground foliage, the solar-powered piece is mobile to the max. Position your bubbling buddy with access to direct sunlight and sit back to enjoy his joyous color and sound.

Designed by Studio H Landscape Architecture, this intriguing fountain features water flowing from an industrial, cage-like structure filled with natural stones.

In an unexpected approach to outdoor design, the elements of earth and water are suspended on this courtyard wall. By taking features vertical, the designers were able to incorporate container gardens and a fountain without sacrificing patio floor space. Housed in neat geometric vessels, the layout feels contemporary and uncluttered.

A brimming koi pond surrounded by brilliant landscaping fills this backyard retreat. Incorporating a pond into your outdoor living space can quickly establish a perfect gathering place for households of any size. Adults will enjoy the soothing sound and visuals as they unwind at the end of the day, while children explore and learn about ecosystems. To read more about installing a pond in your backyard, follow the link below.

Perfectly blending with the natural landscape, this transitional home entryway flows from the outdoor paved path to the neutral interior seamlessly. Two large sliding glass doors open to the entry allowing the space to extend naturally to the outdoors. A small water feature filled with stones adds an element of calm to the walkway.

The abundance of textures surrounding this pool gives this outdoor space a lush, eclectic vibe. Framing the pool, climbing plants highlight the natural beauty of the stone and fountain and add a weathered, timeless appearance. Tumbling water spills from the swimming pool into a petite water feature, echoing the 75-foot descent through terraces leading from the main house to a series of formal gardens below.

An elevated reflecting pool is edged on all sides by elaborate brickwork and landscaping. The symmetrical design evokes royal gardens and creates a sense of unity and grandeur. Playful water lilies on the pool’s surface offer an organic touch, keeping the design from feeling overly stiff and formal.

A sleek canal runs through a glass-and-steel channel on this ranch-style patio. Set against a wooded embankment, the surrounding flora heightens the space’s sense of security, allowing visitors to enjoy the wide-open vistas accompanied by the ambient sounds of the feature in peace.

Wreathed in ivy, a small stone water fountain awaits backyard explorers of this four-acre lot. Worn tile and creeping groundcover between steppingstones promote a sense of being lost in time. The compact water feature and encroaching fauna provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

This bamboo pavilion blends seamlessly into natural surroundings as it looks out over a small reflecting pool complete with aquatic grasses and local marine life. Boulders and stones arranged throughout the space and around the pool enhance the organic look and unify the space.

Sometimes, a bubbling fountain is a perfect addition to fabulous landscaping. Here, symmetrically aligned hedges and beautiful begonias form an elaborate design in the patio garden, highlighting the simple yet stunning fountain at the center.

With this fountain, you can invoke traditional European elegance in your outdoor space without paying a palatial price. This piece carries the restful ambiance of running water and doubles as a mid-sized planter. Made of lightweight polyresin, it can be easily moved and installed wherever a hint of tranquility is needed in a garden or patio.

The charm of this minuscule feature is found in its effective design. Repeating squares unite diverse natural surfaces, creating a startlingly rich aesthetic. Tucked amongst tropical foliage, the piece offers a point of geometric contrast sure to garner any visitor’s gaze.

The dark and heavy features of a black cauldron fountain are enlivened by surrounding rainbows of floral color. Set in the center of a circular formal garden, the weight of this unusual feature draws wanderers further into the landscape. The magnetism and distinctive construction of the fountain lend the space a delightfully unique atmosphere.

The smallest element can leave a lasting impression. This enchanting spout tumbles amongst a collection of jaunty succulents to create a cheery reprieve. Honey-colored lights accentuate the distinctive detail, creating a point of interest within the landscape design.

Soft grasses and towering evergreens encircle this contemplative pond, giving the outdoor area a secluded feel. Visitors can follow the curving flagstone path along the edge, or enjoy a moment resting on the waterside lounge chairs without losing sight of the soothing waters.

For additional ambiance in this tropical outdoor retreat, Craig Reynolds Landscape Architecture outfitted the garden with an accent wall that doubles as a cool, cascading water feature. Surrounding lush green plants enhance the feel of a hidden oasis.

An Old World-style fountain mounted on the wall of this kitchen courtyard calls to mind a Spanish estate. Concrete pavers add cobbled texture and while potted olive trees infuse nuanced color to the Mediterranean-style patio.

Traveling down a channel and rounding a corner, this pleasant steam meets a series of small stair-step falls. The element of water softens these concrete walls, making them feel less austere.

Sometimes simplicity is best. M. Barnes & Co. opted for a small, clean-lined fountain to accent this sleek, modern home.

A brick fountain with an arched wall adds tons of charm to this lovely courtyard. Lush greenery and flowers lend privacy to the space, making the metal table and chairs feel extra inviting.

The stacked stone columns that line the walkway next to this pool were customized to allow for a fountain emitter to be added. Water spills from the columns into heavy ceramic urns then circles back out, creating a continuously bubbling feature.

Flowerbeds divided into ornamental patterns border this circular fountain. Echoing medieval knot gardens, a fountain statue completes the royal arrangement. The lively waters and extravagant landscaping lend the garden an air of majesty and enchantment.

Though this Spanish-inspired fountain is beautiful in its own right, the bold blue tile backdrop helps the water feature pop.

Sometimes, life imitates art. In this particular instance, soft ornamental grasses emulate the swirling lines of an antique water fountain. In reflecting the delicate lines of the piece, the landscape highlights its artistic details and roots the feature within the space.

Fountains aren’t just for sprawling backyards. Here, Iverson Signature Homes designed an outdoor retreat with a streamlined fountain for an urban residence.

The center of this courtyard includes a stunning two-tier fountain with a blue mosaic tile base that shimmers with the water.

Multiple elements combine to create this visually intriguing fountain. Resting against a stacked stone wall, a bright teal urn sits beneath one-of-a-kind painted tiles, providing a reservoir for the water that tumbles from an antique-style brass nozzle.

Lush ivy trails up this gorgeous stone fountain, making the structure blend effortlessly with the rest of the landscape design.

A water feature made from an antique stone urn adds a traditional touch to this contemporary outdoor space. Water spills softly over the edges of the urn onto a bed of Mexican beach pebbles, producing soothing white noise for relaxation. Design by Chad Robert.