Every one of us has dreamt of that idyllic getaway, and while daily life doesn't always feel like a vacation, those with a garden have a unique advantage. We can bring a piece of that dream to our own backyard.
Given the UK's unpredictable weather, we've mastered the art of making the most of our sunlit moments. And what complements a sun-soaked day? A cozy garden setup, complete with furniture and, if you ask me, a barbecue. But to elevate that experience and introduce a calming ambience, I believe there's nothing quite like the sight and sound of flowing water. This is why water features top my list of garden essentials.
In today's post, I'll guide you through the world of water features, highlighting their benefits and where you can witness them in their full glory at renowned garden shows.
Understanding Self-contained Water Features
First and foremost, I advocate for self-contained water features. As the name implies, these features don't require a persistent water source. Fill it up once, and let the water circulate endlessly from its reservoir, creating a soothing cascade.
It's an efficient design, both environmentally and economically. While some water loss is inevitable due to evaporation, splashing, or our feathered friends taking a sip, the feature will only use the water you introduce. And let's face it, even if strong winds disrupt its flow, we're unlikely to be lounging outside in a storm. Plus, with rain being a frequent guest in the UK, your feature may naturally replenish.
Powering Your Water Feature: Solar or Electric?
While many water features are solar-powered, offering a cord-free experience, the unpredictable British weather can be a challenge. Solar features best suit compact designs, but as technology evolves, we're hopeful for larger, more efficient solar-powered models in the future.
For those wanting more grandeur, electric-powered features provide the flexibility of choice. They're designed for convenience, often being plug-and-play. However, larger features might necessitate professional electrical installation.
Materials That Make the Magic
- Resin: Popular for their detailed designs, resin water features are lightweight but stable when filled with water.
- Reconstituted Stone: A classic choice, reminiscent of the first water features introduced to the UK market.
- Granite: Perfect for those aiming for a Japanese or Oriental theme. Each hand-carved piece is unique, durable, and substantial in weight.
- Glass-reinforced Concrete (GRC): A newcomer, GRC offers a blend of traditional and modern designs. They're both intricate and robust, providing cost-effective solutions.
Discover Water Features in All Their Splendour
While online platforms abound with choices, there's something unmatched about experiencing water features in person. This is where OutdoorLivingUK stands out. We proudly exhibit our diverse range at some of the UK's most prestigious garden shows, such as RHS Chelsea Flower Show, RHS Hampton Court, and BBC Gardeners World Live. Each event showcases the latest trends, and our knowledgeable team is always on hand to guide you.
The best time to explore these displays is spring and summer. Do remember that during winter, the number of exhibits might be limited due to reduced demand and potential icy conditions.
