Outdoor fountain styles provide endless opportunities to elevate a space from just okay to amazing.
The sound of cascading water, appealing fountain materials, and striking designs can all work together to create a backyard oasis that can be enjoyed year-round.
The good news is there is a fountain style for every budget and backyard, whether you are looking to create a zen garden or a stunner as your yard’s focal point.
This guide will help you make an informed decision and find the best outdoor fountain ideas that will fit your backyard.
What You’ll Learn:
- Outdoor Fountains Are Gaining Popularity: Why and How
- Top 8 Fountain Styles for Any Backyard
- Choosing the Fountain That is Best for Your Backyard
- Maintenance Tips to Keep Fountains Functioning Well
Outdoor Fountains Are Gaining Popularity: Why and How
Outdoor fountains are becoming very popular among homeowners.
The demand for these designs keeps growing according to market research indicating the global outdoor fountain market reached $1.18 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to $1.71 billion by 2033.
Why the increased demand for outdoor fountains?
Homeowners want to create living spaces in their yards that provide relaxation and wellness. The calming sound of trickling water can lower blood pressure, soothe the nerves and the entire body.
Research has proven that exposure to water is both physically, psychologically and emotionally rewarding to people.
The sound of water helps drown out all other unpleasant sounds such as loud neighbors and traffic noise.
The water also brings a variety of animals and birds into the home which adds another beautiful element to your yard.
Imagine how it feels to walk into your backyard after a long day of work with the relaxing trickling sound of water from your fountain.
For homeowners to choose the right water feature, it is important that they understand the different types of outdoor fountains available.
Landscaping contractors are also noticing the trend since the U.S landscaping services industry size was estimated to be worth approximately $176 billion in 2023.
Water features have now become common in most landscaping design projects across both commercial and residential properties.
Top 8 Fountain Styles for Any Backyard
There are several outdoor fountain designs, and each has its purpose in the backyard.
Tiered Fountains
These are those you see with several levels where water trickles from a basin to another. Tiered outdoor fountains are ideal when you want to make a centerpiece in your yard.
You can install them in large yards, and the flowing water makes that gurgling sound that people love while adding height to the landscape.
Tiered fountains are usually made from stone, concrete, or resin.
Wall Fountains
These are great for those of you who are short on space. Wall fountains are mounted on walls, fences, or standalone pieces.
They are easy to maintain and are perfect for patios, small courtyards or even small side yards.
Self-Contained Fountains
These are the easiest to maintain and install. Self-contained fountains are the ones that come with a pump and a basin. All you need to do is fill them with water and then connect to a power source.
These fountains are available in different designs including modern rounded ones to rustic-shaped urns. Installation takes just a few minutes as compared to other designs.
Floating Fountains
These are also known as aerators and work well if you have a pond or large water feature already. Floating fountains spray water into the air while circulating oxygen.
It helps in keeping the water clean and healthy while also creating a beautiful sight. The best part is that they come with LED lights for dramatic nighttime effect.
Solar-Powered Fountains
Solar fountains are the most environmentally-friendly fountains. They help you save on electricity and also reduce carbon footprint.
Solar fountains need a good amount of sunlight for their functions. The designs of solar fountains are also increasing, from small ones like a birdbath to big ones for gardens.
Interactive Fountains
Interactive fountains are very engaging, and the design can either be placed on the ground or on pedestals. Interactive fountains have water jets that shoot water from the ground upwards. They are therefore, favorite fountains for backyards with families and children.
The kids love running through the spray of water when it is hot in summer.
Pondless Fountains
The name is self-explanatory; the water trickles into an underground reservoir rather than a pond. Pondless fountains are ideal if you have kids and pets at home.
They are also easy to maintain since there is no debris collection as the pond would.
Choosing the Fountain That is Best for Your Backyard
Choosing the right outdoor fountain is important, and there are factors you need to consider when making that decision. Below are some factors to consider.
Consider the space available. A huge fountain on a small patio does not work well. If the space is big, a tiny tabletop fountain is likely to be lost.
Consider the power source available for the fountain. Some fountains require direct connection to a power source while others can run on solar energy. If you choose the solar-powered one, it is important to have a place with enough sunlight.
Maintenance level is also another thing you should not ignore. For instance, concrete water features will develop an attractive patina and therefore you might need to seal it.
The material you choose for your fountain should complement your existing décor. A modern fountain will not match your cottage garden well. The design of the fountain should also harmonize well with your existing landscape for the best results.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Fountains Functioning Well
Maintenance of a fountain is easy, and there are several basic things you should know about fountains.
Cleaning of the fountain is very important. Algae, leaves, and other debris besides calcium deposits that affect the appearance of the fountain can also impede the pump performance. Cleaning on a weekly basis will keep most problems at bay.
Check the water level of the fountain. You might be surprised to learn how fast the water evaporates. Running the fountain on low water level will affect the pump, and the sound it makes will not be the best.
Winterizing the fountains is also another important aspect especially if you are in an area that gets cold during winter. Drain fountains entirely, store the pump indoors, or put your fountains in a protected area for smaller ones.
Use fountain water treatment to keep the water clean. Use algaecide and clarifiers to help keep the water sparkling without harming the fountain pump. Avoid using household cleaners as they will eventually damage the fountain.
Inspect your pumps. At least once a season, inspect the water pump and ensure everything is working well. Cleaning of the pump inlets, checking for cracks in the hose and ensuring the water is flowing well. If small problems are detected, repair or replace to avoid future losses.
Wrapping Things Up
Outdoor fountains do more than just appeal to the eyes.
They create that relaxing soundscape that your backyard needs, attract animals and birds and also can transform your backyard from just an okay yard to an oasis you enjoy all year round.
There are plenty of styles to choose from, and there is an ideal design for every budget and backyard.
Whether you are looking for elegant tiered designs or a wall-mounted water fountain that is easy to maintain, you are sure to find the perfect fountain to enhance your outdoor living.
Installing a fountain also makes a good investment. Homes with well-designed water features have more curb appeal, and this will help boost your property value.
All in all, homeowners should note that:
- It is important to know the space you have to determine the right fountain.
- The power source for the fountain should also be considered.
- The style of the fountain should blend in well with the landscape to create the best fountain.
- Maintenance should be top of mind if you want the fountain to continue providing that perfect aesthetics in your backyard.
Fountains continue to increase in demand as people are aware of the benefits that come with having one in the backyard.
