Humans can’t deny the fact that there’s just something about the sound of moving water that resonates in the soul. Water features can provide the same benefits as being near a large body of water—whether the feature is large or small.
It doesn’t matter if we’re sitting seaside or can hear a river off in the distance, the sound of it generates a sense of serenity deep within us. That’s true whether it’s a trickling brook or the sound of waves hitting the shore. Many people don’t live close enough to a large body of water to visit on a regular basis though. Some choose to create the same effect in their outdoor living area.
Water features enhance your relaxation experience allowing peace and tranquility to flow freely throughout the environment. It adds a positive aspect to the ambiance, agreed?
Not just for swimming pools
Installing water features in and around the swimming pool is a trend that isn’t dying out. People create amazing rock waterfalls, run stunning water walls along the length of the pool, and incorporate scones for an elegant look. That just names a few of the possibilities.
Actually, though, the sound of the water being filtered through its cycle and shooting back into the pool is enough to create a sense of serenity. Close your eyes and imagine yourself floating in the pool on a hot summer day—do you hear the water in the background?
We thought so.
Indoor water features
An indoor water feature works the same way that the outdoor ones do but they’re usually on a smaller scale.
Water features circulate water in a controlled cycle. They’re purely for decorative purposes, of course, and use the same water over and over again. They can sit on a tabletop, on the floor, or be installed on the wall.
Because the water is held in a reservoir and continuously cycled through the system, there aren’t any special plumbing requirements. However, lighted features may be more labor-intensive because they can require additional installation procedures—say if it’s to be hooked up to a specific outlet or light switch, for example.
Water features have several benefits
We’ve covered the fact that people want to be around moving water because it creates a sense of tranquility.
You’ll gain other benefits from installing a water feature on your patio or lanai.
They release negative ions. Electricity depletes them and most of our living spaces are equipped with a source of electricity, aren’t they?
Negative ions increase the flow of oxygen to the brain and that results in being more focused and less drowsy. Overall, you’ll be in a better mental state of mind. Some studies have shown that negative ions guard against germs in the air and reduces the symptoms of those suffering with respiratory conditions.
Moving water increases the humidity in the air. That fact becomes even more beneficial in areas that are consistently controlled by air conditioning or central heating.
Feng shui isn’t really about style
While many connect the term feng shui with a type of style, in actuality it’s about balancing energies from different elements throughout different areas of your home. It’s said creating the perfect balance has an amazing effect on your health and well-being.
The right combination allows you to better utilize your energy without having to fight through the negative energy within your immediate environment. Using the water element correctly “promotes the optimal flow of chi.” The Chinese call “chi” energy the life force of all matter. Obtaining the perfect balance of chi is vital to all feng shui applications.
Choosing your water feature
Have you decided which type of water feature will look best in your environment? We’re going to try and help you out here by listing the descriptions of different water feature styles.
Laminar jet
Strictly for the pool area, the laminar jet is designed to provide a clear, adjustable stream of water that arcs high up and out into the pool. They come standard with a built-in LED for a dramatic nighttime display, but daylight doesn’t make them less amazing… just less colorful.
The jets creates an endless stream of water without ripples or imperfections. They’re adjustable so you can change the direction to create the arc shape that you prefer.
Unless you’re experienced in pool design, it’s recommended that you have laminar jets installed by a professional rather than taking it on as a do-it-yourself (DIY) project.
Water walls
You often find a water wall in the center of the pool, however, placing them along the border of a swimming pool is another popular choice.
It’s also possible to add a smaller version of this mesmerizing water feature to your enclosed lanai, your patio, or even free-standing in an open area of your yard.
Do you have experience cutting metal? If so, you might want to check out the array of DIY videos on YouTube. You’ll need to be prepared to drill holes in the tubing, however, there are pre-cut kits available that ensure the spacing is spot on.
Floor fountains
The variety of floor fountains that are available is seemingly endless. Seriously. Still, no matter which one you finally settle on, the end result is going to enhance the ambiance of your outdoor living space.
If you’ll be placing the fountain on an interior floor rather than outside, it’s a good idea to use faux stone over real stone due to the sheer weight involved. When using real stone, it’s best to reinforce interior floors first so you’ll never have to worry about the floor giving way.
Scones or wall fountains
These water features can make a bold statement without taking up much space.
We’ll mention, too, that while it may seem as if nearly every water scone or wall fountain is depicted with water coming from a lion’s mouth, that’s definitely not reality. Some think they are more reserved for “elegant” interior designs. Of course, in reality, that is strictly up to the designer!
You are certain to find the perfect addition for your home if this is the water feature for you.
Tabletop fountains
Since you don’t have to have a large body of water to create a tranquil environment, tabletop fountains are gaining in popularity. That’s because small tabletop fountains have the same relaxing effect and are pleasing to the eye.
Lots of homeowners choose to gather their own materials and make building their tabletop fountains a DIY project. That process surely adds an even larger satisfaction margin to the outcome.
Tabletop fountains weigh in at a fraction of the cost compared to their much larger counterparts. That’s a pleasing experience in its own right.
The eye of the beholder
It’s totally understandable if, after reading this post, you’re still pondering which type of water feature to use.
Take time with your decision because you’re designing your backyard oasis. A place where family and friends come together to relax, unwind, and spend time with those they love. It’s only fitting that the area in which you do so reflects your persona.
It adds to the impact of those lifetime memories you’ll be making in a huge way.