No matter the size of your yard, you can thoughtfully introduce water features into your landscaping.

You probably already know that Earth is called the blue planet because about 70% of it is covered with water. Proponents of biophilic design, an architectural practice that aims to improve human health, well-being, and productivity, advocate strengthening our connection to water by integrating it into the landscape. With that in mind, we’ve put together a collection of ways, big and small.

 

Keep it natural. Natural swimming pools are self-sufficient and require minimal maintenance. You can make it very similar to a rectangular backyard swimming pool with the sky-blue water we often see, or a more free-form pond. Natural swimming pools use plants to filter and purify the water, eliminating the need for toxic chemicals.

 

These pools are very similar to natural bodies of water, so you can create your own lake using a pier as an image. Just like in real life, your creation may attract deer and other animals that will increase your visibility in exchange for a few sips of healthy, clean water.

Layer your views. This photo shows three design successes. First, the waterfall pouring from the house serves as a bridge separating the house and the land. Secondly, placing a small plunge pool as close to the house as possible can provide a pleasant view of the interior when people look out the window and see the water integrated into the house. Third, it reflects the common belief of architect said, “Rather than looking into the distance, inserting a water bowl or small puddle between the viewer and the landscape increases the perception of the distant seascape”.

Catch the rain. Collecting rain is another way to incorporate water that delights multiple senses simultaneously for a more complete experience. When it rains, water flows down your rain chain, creating a pleasant pinging sound as it fills the water tank that you will later use to water your plants or do household chores.

 

What appears to be a standard water pumping feature is actually a clever water collection device that directs rainwater in perforated pipes concealed by the pergola’s frame into a basin that carries it to an underground storage tank.

Take it one step further. There is also a garden fountain and custom cascading waterfall decorated with lily pads and metal that will develop a beautiful patina over time.

Introducing sound. A deer trapping fountain hints at the presence of wild animals in your home. This device originated in Japan to scare deer eating in gardens. The long tube is slowly filled with water until the weight of the water causes the tube to rotate around its center of gravity and descend, hitting the basin below with a loud noise. It is this noise that scares deer.

Build it in. A table with empty channels for ice, drinks, or even a fire is always a welcome sight on the patio. This is especially true for tables where the space is too small to accommodate a separate cooler or fire pit. However, tables that use that channel as part of a larger water feature deserve special recognition.

Build an island. While the previous example used a basin as the reservoir, this tropical vignette features more water flowing into the pool, where the dining area sits like an island. This kind of design thinking is what can transform your gorgeous backyard into an oasis for all the senses.

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Invite the birds. Sometimes a simple bird bath in the backyard can do the trick. Installed along an beautiful garden path, this copper bird bath captures rainwater, adding visual interest and bringing in nature. All of this is done at a relatively low cost.

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