A water feature can be as simple as a small reflecting pool or as elaborate as a waterfall cascading into a fish pond with a fountain. With so many options to choose from, it is helpful to recognize the four basic categories of water features; ponds, fountains, waterfalls and streams.
PONDS
The four basic types of ponds are, reflecting pools, ornamental pools, water gardens and fish ponds. Each of these may be any size, shape or depth.
Reflecting Pools
Reflecting pools are designed to be decorative features usually in a garden as a central feature. They often have formal, geometric shapes with walking surfaces that overhang their edges all the way around. For added artistic beauty these water features are normally located near a decorative landscape feature that is vividly reflected in the glassy surface of the water.
Ornamental Pools
Ornamental pools are generally located near a deck or patio. They are designed around an ornamental piece like a spouting statue a vertically cascading fountain or a bell fountain.
Water Gardens
Water gardens are living water features, replete with aquatic plant life that is full of vibrant colours and textures. Plants, both inside and outside the perimeter of the pond create a lush natural setting.
Fish Ponds
Fish can be added to almost any type of water feature as long as certain life sustaining criteria are met. Gold fish and Koi are common favorites. They add a splash of colour in motion.
WATERFALLS
Like fountains, waterfalls add sound, motion and vitality to your water feature. Often created with natural stone slabs or boulders, waterfalls bring a vertical dimension. Waterfalls capture your interest from a distance as they dance and flow.
STREAMS
Streams are ideal for meandering along paths, walkways or even pool decks. Acting as natural filters, streams are often designed to flow into waterfalls and cascade into a pond to help sustain the entire ecosystem of a water feature.