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Water Features

Water features are a great way to create ambience in the garden and can make a stunning focal point. If you’ve been thinking about installing a water feature but are not sure where to start, we’ve spoken to Brenda Long of Focal Point Water Features to get the low-down on everything you need to know.

So why are water features so popular these days? Long says it’s because of “the soothing ambience they create. They’re cooling, refreshing and relaxing, and in our hectic lifestyle it’s calming to come home to your own ‘oasis’ away from the hustle and bustle of the world.

“A custom made feature also puts your own individual style in your home or outdoor entertaining area.”

All about Water Features

There’s more than one type of water feature, as Long points out. “There are water features to suit different tastes, including Balinese, contemporary, natural rock and traditional styles using stainless steel, copper, fiberglass, cement, glass and so forth.”

Not sure what you want to go for? Long recommends using the internet for inspiration and to help develop your individual tastes. Don’t be afraid to go crazy, as most water features can be tailor-made to suit you.

Materials and Trends

While water features can be tailor-made, there are some materials that are commonly used. These are stainless steel, glass, acrylic, stacked stone, copper, fiberglass, tiles, pebbles and rock. Plenty of choice!

Long is enthusiastic when it comes to the latest trends. “I think people are starting to push the boundaries and be more adventurous when striving for the ‘wow’ factor.

“Etching on stainless steel, architectural features incorporated onto basic models and unique designs complementing the surrounding décor are coming in.

“Wave descent panels are popular in stainless and copper, as is exciting new patterned stainless steel in endless colours and textures. Slumped glass, coloured glass and tinted glass are also sought after.

“The great thing about water features is that you are only limited by your imagination and ability.”

Professional Help

But if there is too much choice available to you, professionals will help you with your needs. As Long says, “we usually discuss the customer’s preferred tastes in water features, the ambience they’d like to create, the materials used to complement their décor, budget and any concerns they have.”

There is a huge range of water features available from the budget models to the “sky’s the limit” models. The price of the water feature will depend on factors such as its size, the materials used and the complexity of the various units.

Water features are also low-maintenance, with the occasional cleaning of the filter and top up of water generally being all that is required. The professional will go through the maintenance requirements with you upon installation.

Long stresses the importance of having a water feature installed professionally. “It’s very important to have a professional install your water feature to prevent disappointment, expense and damage regarding waterproofing, water flow and associated problems.”

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