Water features come in all shapes and sizes, from the grandest and most ornate fountains to a tiny self contained bubble fountain. Whilst water features can make a fantastic addition to any pond, there true adaptability is probably best realised in the smallest of yards and gardens where the concept of a pond is probably a complete non-starter.

The broad spectrum of designs available off the shelf means there is a simple readymade approach to introducing water in the garden. For the more creative or those seeking to create something that has more of a small scale pond theme it is very simple to create a bespoke design utilising either a standalone receptacle such as the popular half barrel. Alternatively, a recessed small pool in the garden could be covered with stones or similar to create the effect of a fountain simply rising out of the middle of the garden.

The beauty of creating your own water feature is the ability to ensure that the feature compliments the existing garden and can fit discretely in a complimentary manner. There is also the obvious sense of satisfaction. There are many plants that will thrive in small containers and provide that small pond feel. It is, however, best to avoid fish in these small containers as the temperature variations will be too great.

For any water feature that creates a splash, pretty much anything beyond a modest bubble fountain, it is essential to ensure that the catching area is sufficiently large to catch the majority of splashing water. Whilst any pond or water feature will require water top up’s, the thought of doing this daily could easily become a bore.

For truly spectacular water features, modern resorts such as Las Vegas are pushing the boundaries of water art to the extreme in creating dramatic and impressive displays. Whilst the scale is clearly breathtaking, it is nigh on impossible to match the sense of great art achieved by one of the world’s most famous fountains, the Trevi Fountain in Rome.

Designed as an entry in an architectural competition held by Pope Clement XII in 1732, the fountain was eventually completed in 1762. Unfortunately this was to be after the death of the designer, Niccolo Salvi.
Part of the impressive nature of the Trevi is the sheer scale, coupled with the fact that the fountain is actually squeezed into a very small square. The backdrop for the fountain is the Palazzo Poli and features statues of Neptune flanked by Health and Abundance with attending marine horses and tritons. With such a dramatic backdrop and a thunderous roar of water, all in such a confined space, this truly is a sensory feast to behold. Albeit, most likely from within a very dense crowd.

The waters for the fountain are provided by an ancient underground aqueduct which also provides water to other fountains around the city of Rome.