Anyone with a beautiful outdoor landscape, be it a backyard, front lawn or gardenscape, would want it to be functional, aesthetic and add to their property value. What if we told you that incorporating water features into your outdoor living space can do all three? (and then some!). Decorative or functional water features can make your space feel so much more lively, visually appealing, and they’re a treat to the ears. As landscape designers in Kelowna, we’ve got all the know-how on adding water features that synergize with the other elements of your Okanagan landscape.
Types of water features for your backyard or garden
Water Fountains
Water fountains are some of the most popular water features to include in your outdoor landscape simply because they are excellent focal points and versatile. Whether you have a sprawling garden or a quaint backyard, plenty of water fountain options are available, from table-top fountains to large elaborate structures, to complement your space without taking away from its natural beauty.
Fountains can either have a single central spout or multiple jets that spout water into the air, which then cascades or falls back into a basin or pool. If you’re worried about maintenance services for water features, there’s no need to stress. Our team offers maintenance packages for the whole landscape to keep it looking groomed and fresh through the seasons.
Swimming Pools
Pools are a great way to bring friends and family together for days of fun in the sun—margaritas, anyone?? They come in plenty of shapes, sizes and depths to suit your backyard’s needs. From lap pools to plunge pools and pools large enough to accommodate your loved ones, they’re extremely functional, entertaining, and even provide a space to rest and unwind. Plus, they’re a boost to your property’s value. However, it is essential to make sure that they are built to last with safe materials, and have a cover for when not in use to ensure the safety of your children or pets. If you’re not sure where to start, Synergy Landscape Design has the perfect compilation of inspiration and ideas to get your creative juices flowing!
Waterfalls
Waterfalls are known for creating a stunning cascade of water. They are usually installed at a significant elevation, with tiered pools to mimic the effect of a natural waterfall. They are also traditionally built with natural rocks such as flagstone or human-made rocks and boulders and surrounded by plants and shrubs for added beauty.
While waterfalls sound extravagant, like you need ample space (and budget) to accommodate them, that’s not entirely true! They can either be built so the water cascades into a small pond below it, or they can be built vertically, such that the water flows over a smooth surface and gets pulled into a hidden reservoir before being pumped back up. If you have a smaller outdoor space but still want to revel in the sound of trickling water, vertical waterfalls are the perfect option. Our landscaping company in Kelowna has completed several projects that included the installation of waterfalls, so we’ve got the expertise to help you.
Ponds
Ponds also come in several shapes and sizes. You can opt for a clear pond surrounded by natural rocks or patio pavers, or you could have a pond flourishing with water plants, fish, and other aquatic life. They are also a good opportunity for combining two water features into one focal point. For example, you could incorporate a small waterfall or fountain that flows into the pond. Imagine the soothing sounds of water trickling down as it enters the pond! Other hardscape elements, decorative features and plants can also surround them.
Streams
Streams are your best bet if you want to feel one with nature. They can be designed to run through your gardenscape, along natural stone, besides your patio pathway, and near seating areas. Streams are ideal on level or slightly sloped land. They can even be incorporated to flow into a waterfall or pond to harmonize with the other water features in your yard while also helping their ecosystems.
Reflective Pools
As the name suggests, reflective pools are built to reflect the decorative landscape surrounding them and the beautiful sky! They can make smaller spaces appear much more open and provide a serene ambiance. Typically, they are geometrically shaped and feature walking or sitting stone surfaces along the perimeter, making them great for lounging around, catching up on some reading, or having a cozy conversation. Reflective pools can even house water plants, strengthening the feeling of being immersed in nature.
If we’ve struck a chord in you and you feel inspired to incorporate water features into your outdoor haven, there’s no better time to take action than now! Summer’s in full swing in Kelowna, and having a water feature to help beautify and cool off your space would be ideal. And, who can resist the calming sounds of water gushing from a waterfall or flowing from a stream? Our landscape experts at Synergy can help you turn your outdoor space into your personal retreat, reach out to us to learn more!
Ready to dig deep and build sustainably? Synergy offers comprehensive landscape maintenance and design services in Kelowna and surrounding areas. We can take care of all your needs. Contact us and leaf your landscaping woes behind!