A well-maintained yard is more than just a pretty face. It can add value to your home and be a functional space, used for recreation and entertainment.

While there are many features you can add to your space to make it your own, nothing says elegance like an outdoor garden fountain.

If you’re looking for the perfect fountain to add even more luxury to your home, you first need to decide where you’ll put it.

In this guide, we give you five garden fountain placement tips so you’ll get the most out of your beautiful water feature.

Before You Find the Perfect Garden Fountain

You may have already decided on a classic stone design. Or, you may be eyeing a long-lasting granite fountain. Whichever you’re considering, you first need to select the space where it will get installed.

You may wonder why you should find a spot before purchasing your fountain, but there are several reasons.

The main one is size. You need to make sure your new investment will fit in the space you’ve chosen. For professional guidance, a landscape designer can use PhotoShop to show you how your garden fountain will look in a location.

But, that’s not all you should keep in mind. Here are more helpful placement tips.

1. Make Your Fountain the Focus

When you decide to add a water feature to your yard, it should be the focal point of your outdoor space.

Whether you place it in the front or back of your house, you want to be able to enjoy both inside or out. Try to choose a spot where you’ll have a clear sightline from inside your home.

2. Make Sure There’s Electricity

Your elegant fountain will have a pump for the water. That pump needs electricity to run.

Of course, you could hire a contractor to run electric anywhere on your property. But, it’s easier if you place your fountain near an electrical source.

3. Are There Trees Close By?

If you have a lot of trees in your yard, you’ll want to install your fountain in an area farther from the trees. The reason why is simple: leaves.

In the fall, you’ll have quite a mess on your hands as the foliage starts to die off for the winter. The leaves will fall right into your fountain, which will clog your pump.

4. Will It Mask Street Noise?

The size and design of your fountain will determine how much noise the running water will make. Hopefully, it’s loud enough to mask any street noise, like traffic.

You’d much rather listen to the serene sound of water than cars driving past your house, so take that into consideration when searching for the location. Turning your pump down will make a softer more tinkling sounding fountain.  Turning your pump up faster will push more water, and create a louder, rushing water sound, but will also cause a lot more splashing if your fountain pool is not sized appropriately to the size/height of your fountain centerpiece.

5. Is It a Safe Location?

The final thing to take into consideration is it’s a safe location. More than 1,000 American children die every year due to drowning. And while you may not think it’s possible in a garden fountain, small children can drown in water as shallow as two inches.

If you have pets or young children in your family, make sure you install the fountain in an area that isn’t easily accessible.

Distinctive Luxury from Expert Craftsmanship

Now that you know some placement tips, you’ll have an easier time selecting from our wide array of elegant garden fountains.

Contact us today and let one of our highly-skilled designers help you find the perfect fountain for you.

Remember the old commercial for bath salts? You know the one-the frazzled woman sinks into a tub and sighs, “Take me away.”

Bubble baths are great for relaxation but you can only sit in them for short periods of time before you resemble a prune.

What if there’s something better-something almost otherworldly that works better than a box of powdered bubble bath and a lukewarm tub of water?

Would you believe it if we told you it’s right in your backyard? Well, maybe it’s not there yet, but it soon could be.

Outdoor fountains offer a welcome respite from the busyness of your day-to-day routine. A fountain calls to you with a soothing lyrical voice promising peace and relaxation.

Are you craving serenity yet?

Keep reading and slip into one fountain paradise with 5 ideas for incorporating fountain decor in your yard.

Desert Oasis

If you love the desert but live several states from one, why not bring the desert to your backyard environment?

Start with a rustic stone fountain, which becomes your centerpiece.

Lush green grass is not part of a desert, so consider replacing at least a portion of your lawn with stones. Natural stones come in different colors but lighter colored stones won’t absorb heat as readily as darker stones.

Add a splash of color with several sizes of flowering cactus. Prickly pear cactus is native to Wisconsin and does well when planted with other succulents. Invite a bit of whimsy and include a few terra cotta lizards lounging on the larger stones surrounding your fountain. Make sure you remember to bring those delicate statues into the house for winter if you have freeze/thaw seasons though, as otherwise those poor statues will start to fall apart very quickly.  (Or, you could get granite statues to fit your space, and then you wouldn’t have to worry about moving anything, season to season – as granite will last through almost anything!)

Southern Elegance

Create drama and sophistication by creating a boxwood courtyard garden.

Using a classic 3-tiered garden fountain as the focal point, build a circle of stone pavers around the fountain. Arrange pavers with space in between each and add pea gravel or low growing moss between them for contrast.

Build-up the area around the fountain with boxwood hedges. Group hydrangea bushes and plant Hicks yew shrubs, which grow upright adding a beautiful accent to the colorful flowers.  Keep in mind that some water will likely blow off the fountain when it’s windy, so whatever you plant around the fountain should be either chlorine resistant, or far enough away from the fountain that it likely won’t be hit by any of those splashes.

An elegant bench gives visitors a place to sit while enjoying the sound of water spilling over the fountain’s tiers.

The final touch to your Southern-style courtyard is the placement of large stone pots full of climbing roses. If you live in a climate with freezing weather though, make sure your pots are either made of granite, or light enough to move inside over winter so they don’t crack though.

The Secret Garden

A small, secluded garden with water splashing from a granite wall fountain this is the perfect escape from summer heat.

Tucked back into the trees and surrounded by shrubs, you can hide away for hours unnoticed.

This secret garden includes a flagstone terrace with space between stones for planting a hardy ground cover like white flowering mazus. Fill large stone pots with white caladium and smaller pots with white impatiens. The white and green color scheme create a cool and private garden space. 

Fountain Decor for an Elegant Kitchen Garden

Kitchen  gardens are usually stuck in the far back corner of the yard. While functional, they don’t always look attractive. Break the rules this year and bring your herbs and vegetables to the center of life in the backyard.

Start with a stone fountain, which acts as a garden centerpiece but also serves a practical purpose as a water source for the plants. The way you can accomplish this is by installing it as a Disappearing Fountain, where the water splashes down onto decorative rocks below the fountain, and is stored below the fountain in a hidden water reservoir.  Touch this link to learn more about this kind of installation. 

Build a border with river rocks and leave spaces for plants. Use the spaces to grow your own kitchen herbs. Try rosemary and oregano for savory soups. Lavender and sweet basil are excellent choices as well.

Use decorative containers for your vegetable plants. Choose plants based on how much sunlight falls in the area around the fountain. A fountain that splashes the surrounding ground with water helps increase moisture in the soil. The plants will love it!  Make sure you have your fountain attached to your building water though, so that it doesn’t run dry too fast.  Otherwise, depending on the amount of wind, relative humidity, or how sunny it is that day, you could be dragging your hose over there several times a week, to fill the water reserve tank back up.

Low growing herbs are the ideal companions for fountains since you can show off the full fountain without worrying that the plants will hide it.

Wildlife Retreat

If you enjoy supporting wildlife conservation why not create a backyard wildlife habitat?

Concentrate on the four basic needs of your wildlife visitors, which are food, water, cover, and nesting.

The pièce de résistance for this retreat should be an outdoor fountain designed with nature in mind. Your bronze water fountain is the backdrop for fruit and nut trees and the evergreens you’ll plant to encourage a variety of wildlife. Vegetation surrounding the pool provides cover for animals who come looking for water. 

Every Yard Deserves an Outdoor Fountain

We’ve enjoyed inspiring you with garden designs, which feature unique fountain decor. Fountains add charm, elegance, and drama to outdoor spaces.

Carved Stone Creations offers unique handcrafted yard embellishments and outdoor fountains.

Are you ready to take your yard to the next level?  Contact us today and we’ll work with you during every step of planning your outdoor retreat.

Are you thinking about installing an outdoor water fountain?

Although nobody understands exactly how it works, the therapeutic benefits offered by the sound of running water are well-known.

Likewise, getting outside comes with a whole set of benefits. Installing an outside water fountain is a clever way to combine the power of both into one soothing, healing package. If you get it right, that is.

Be sure to consider the following if you want to reap the benefits and avoid the pitfalls of installing an outdoor water feature.

Consider Space Constraints

A fountain is a major focal point in your yard and should fit in seamlessly with your landscaping.

Too large a fountain will make your garden looked cramped. A fountain that’s too small won’t have the visual impact you’re looking for.

The location of the fountain will also have an effect on what type of fountain will fit in both practically and aesthetically.

To help you decide, you can take a photograph of your yard (with your residence in the background), and we can use a photo editing program to insert different kinds of fountains in front of your house. This will give you an idea of what the final outcome might be.

It’s a good idea to print your final arrangement and take it along with you when you purchase your fountain. In this way, an expert sales consultant will be able to tell what size fountain you need at a glance.

Types of Water Fountains

The next step is to choose the right type of fountain for your space. Although you may have an idea of what you want, this could fly out the window when you see the huge variety available.

It makes sense to narrow down your choices before you start shopping to avoid becoming overwhelmed or choosing a gorgeous fountain that’s impractical. There is a huge variety to choose from, here’s a taster.

You should consider the style of your house or garden when choosing a design. A very ornate statue fountain will not suit a house with a very modern design. Rather look at fountains with a more contemporary design.

If you don’t have a lot of outdoor space available, you could consider a corner or wall mounted fountain.

Apart from shape and size, the material used to construct your water fountain also has a huge effect on the final look.

Fountain Materials

Granite fountains are extremely versatile, can withstand very cold temperatures, and fit in anywhere. These kinds of fountains are very heavy and last a lifetime.

Cast stone fountains are also very heavy, but will only last a short amount of time, when compared to a granite fountain which can last generations.

Choose your location carefully before installing them. You only want to do it once.

Fiberglass fountains can mimic the look of granite and stone but are much lighter and cheaper. However, they won’t last nearly as long — since over time the fiberglass gets brittle from UV damage, and also the fountain is so light in weight, it can actually blow away in a strong wind.

Bronze and copper fountains add a little glimmer and really stand out in lush gardens. They’ll need a little extra cleaning to keep them looking their best though.

Ceramic and porcelain fountains are fragile and are best used as patio water features, where they are not exposed to the elements — and can be brought inside for the winter (if you have freezing temps).

Other Aesthetic Elements

Discreet lighting will really make decorative fountains stand out in the dark and is a must if you spend a lot of time entertaining outside at night.

Amber or blue lights create a relaxed ambiance, while bright white lighting is dramatic and energizing. Using different colored light bulbs (or colored lenses over your warm white bulbs) can give your fountain a festive feel.

Paving can do much to highlight your fountain and give it added appeal. Consider a walkway up to the fountain or a paved seating area alongside it. Flowers and shrubs are a beautiful addition to any outdoor fountain setting.

It is important to choose the correct type of pump to achieve the aesthetic you are looking for. Always opt for the highest quality pump you can find.

Housekeeping Aspects

Check with your local municipality about any necessary permits before you tap into their water line to install your fountain. There may also be regulations and restrictions for operating a fountain depending on your location.

Most outdoor fountains have little impact on water use. This is because they have recirculating pumps which circulate the same water over and over until it evaporates.

When choosing a fountain, remember you will need to carry out routine maintenance on it.

You should clean your fountain at least once a month, and you will need to winterize it before the first big chill. This involves draining the fountain and shutting off its water supply as well as properly draining the water pipes which feed the fountain so they don’t explode when the ground freezes.

There is no need to cover your fountain if it is made of granite, but you should take the water pump out of the fountain before winter, clean it, then place it in a bucket of water in a warm location until spring (when are you start the fountain back up).

If your fountain is NOT made of granite, but rather a more porous substrate like Limestone, Travertine, Marble, Cantera or Concrete (and you live in a climate with Freeze/Thaw seasons), you absolutely need to cover it prior to each winter until spring, or it WILL not last very long at all.

Wrap the porous fountain with a blanket to soak up any moisture that collects on the inside of the tarp if it sweats from humidity, then tarp the fountain very securely over the blanket. This makes sure there are no obvious holes in the tarp. This may extend the life of your porous fountain for several years, but the usable lifespan for your fountain will still not compare to a granite fountain.

Make sure you don’t block off your access to the fountain with plants or other obstacles.

Large fountains should be clear all the way around for efficient maintenance. All outdoor water fountains can become blocked by falling leaves or seeds from surrounding plants or trees, which will clog up the intake on the pump and cause the fountain to slow down or stop running completely.

Your fountain must have access to water and energy sources to operate, so keep this in mind when you choose a spot for it.

Installing Your Outside Water Fountain

If you decide to order a large, heavy fountain, you’ll need expert help with delivering and installing it. This means a whole new set of logistics.

Where will the delivery vehicle enter to offload your fountain? Is there enough space to move it into position?

Typically, you need at least an 8′ travel path to move the heavy parts into place. Make sure it does not go up a steep incline or decline or over any sidewalk or paver tiles which could possibly crack with heavy machines moving across them.

(Otherwise, if your proposed fountain location is very enclosed, a crane may be required to set the fountain into place.)

Be sure to choose a fountain that fits in with these practical considerations.

Unless you are an experienced handyman, it is a good idea to get help installing any kind of fountain. The process can be complicated, and you will need a qualified electrician to do the wiring for you.

Where to Find the Perfect Fountain

When you have a good idea of what type of outside water fountain suits your needs and budget, get in touch to discuss your options.

If you’re still undecided, you could consider a custom-designed fountain that precisely matches all your expectations.

When you start landscaping your home, you might wonder what would give it that extra oomph. How can you make your yard look better and more put together?

For centuries, decorative fountains have been the centerpiece for elaborate architecture. Why not follow the example of kings and queens of old, and install a fountain in your yard?

Need more convincing? Check out these reasons to put a stone fountain with a pool in your garden.

Why You Need a Stone Fountain With a Pool

Not any fountain will do. Fountains with pools are what you need, and here’s why.

Outdoor Sound Cancellation

The greatest benefit of an outdoor water fountain is its ability to drown out sounds. Everyone wants to think of their backyard space as a getaway from the rest of the world. But, sounds from passing cars or noisy neighbors can interrupt the peacefulness.

Interruptions are fewer, though, when you have noise cancellation built into the yard. The peaceful sound that comes from a fountain with a pool beneath it is unbeatable. Not only do you get to hear the relaxing music of running water, but it’s likely all you’ll hear.

Beautiful Water Reflections

Even science backs the brain’s natural attraction to water. We find the sounds and visuals of running water to be calming and relaxing.

Installing an outdoor fountain with a pool will enhance that feeling even more. The size of the pool gives the water greater movement, resulting in more reflections. Sun reflections on the water will give your garden the feeling of being near water. You can also recreate that feeling at night by installing lights.

The Benefit of Negative Ions

Have you ever wondered why the body reacts well to cooler temperatures in nature? Being among the flowing water and trees creates positive energy because of negative ions.

Likewise, you can circulate positive energy in your own backyard space. Installing water fountains outdoors gives the space negative ions, so you feel relaxed. Between the sound and reflections, you’ll feel like you’re in another world.

Take the Garden Up a Notch

It’s not uncommon to have some healthy competition with the neighbors. Who’s grass is greener? Who’s holiday decor will win the neighborhood contest? But the addition of a fountain will set your yard apart, hands down.

Installing a fountain with water pooling at the bottom is even better. It will amp up the beauty of your garden. It’ll also make everyone choose your house as the go-to backyard party spot.

Stonework and More Fountains

With a stone fountain in your garden, you can sit back and relax. Breathe the fresh air and enjoy the running water. Carved Stone Creations has many outdoor fountain choices from which to choose.

You can find many useful articles on our blog to help with your outdoor fountain. Read about maintenance and find replacement parts with ease.

Are you considering adding a stone fountain to your landscape? Before you start shopping or begin the design process, consider the different types of stone available for fountains. If you are placing your fountain outdoors, we recommend granite fountains. They add more beauty, class, and luxury. If you want your home to be unique, then natural stone fountains are key.

Durable

Granite is the most durable stone. The only substance harder than granite is diamond. Other stone types, such as marble and limestone, have porous surfaces that can trap and hold water. Trapped water overtime causes the stone fountain to crack and crumble as the water freezes and thaws. Granite is less likely to deteriorate from harsh weather conditions with its solid surface.  You can enjoy the beauty of a granite fountains year round because they don’t need to be covered up in the winter. Since granite is durable, your granite fountain won’t get damaged by harsh winter weather. 

Beautiful

Man-made stone, like cast stone, can’t match the beauty of granite. Granite is available in a wide range of colors, from charcoal grey to light tan. Plus, each cut of granite is one-of-a-kind. Every inch of our granite fountains is hand carved by a skilled artisan to include unique patterns and details. Natural rock fountains have been famous for many centuries because of their unique beauty. Granite has different shades of color from light to dark. If you want to look your fountain is unique then custom fountains are the best.

Customizable

Getting custom outdoor fountain is always an advantage because it ensures that your custom style and preference for your landscape design is excellent. Customize stone fountain and basin components are hands carved from solid individual pieces of rocks. Cast stone fountains are poured into a mold with little room for design changes. Our handcarved granite fountains are completely customizable! You can choose every detail of your custom fountain to create a design to match your style.

Just Contact us to start the process and get your favorite water fountain.

Designing and creating custom stone fountains is one of our specialties. Natural stone can be transformed into any shape with unlimited details for a truly one-of-a-kind design. If you are considering a custom fountain design for your space, check out our tips for starting the process.

Are you interested in adding a custom fountain design to your landscape? Contact us to start the process!