A water feature — big or small — can mask noises, attract wildlife and help transform even the smallest urban space into an oasis. Add a water soundtrack to your front or backyard with these 10 ideas.
Rustic Garden
This water fountain by Alderwood Landscape is surrounded by foliage mixing colors and textures of Lace Leaf Japanese Maples, Gunnera plants and small conifers.
See more lush landscaping ideas.
Relaxing Oasis
This tranquil meditation garden and water feature hides the clamor of the busy Chicago city.
See more Asian-inspired gardens.
Fire + Water
This Seattle residence’s outdoor living room includes both a fireplace and a large reflective pool with a fountain.
See more contemporary patios.
Waterfall
A roaring waterfall provides both a visual and auditory experience in this backyard, designed to blend with the natural environment.
See more rustic gardens.
Pond
This stone-walled pond holds fish, lily pads and a small waterfall.
See more patios with water features.
Fountain
This Irvine, CA home’s stone walls and three-spout fountain creates a Spanish-inspired patio.
See more Mediterranean patios.
Reflecting Pool
A low-profile reflecting pool continues the minimal feel of this modern’s home backyard.
See more modern patios.
Spouts
Add a water feature directly into a retaining wall, as shown here on this narrow patio in Coronado, CA.
See more cottage-style patios.
Birdbath
Even a birdbath with a small fountain like this can add noise-canceling features to a backyard. These smaller structures can fit nearly anywhere, with little to no setup.
See more traditional patio ideas.
Fountain
A fountain even works well in the front of a home, muting some of the noise from the street.
See more affordable Mediterranean patios.
Related:
- Out-of-the-Box Fire Pit Ideas
- 8 Outstanding Waterfront Home Interior Designs
- Great Places to Buy a Home Near the Water
Erika Riggs, the Zillow Digs manager, covers home design and trends. Read more of her work here.
