How the sound of water can Transform the garden space and add mystery

Materials

20 Jun

Written By Simon Cox

“Nothing is softer or more flexible than water, yet nothing can resist it.”

- The Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu understood the power water holds.

Woodland inspired garden with a stone table style water feature nestled on pebbled and shaded by trees and shrubs — A basalt stone water feature allows the water to gently ripple over the surface.

Calming, glistening, nourishing, sparkling - however you choose to describe it, its elemental force is irresistible.

I always try to encourage clients to use water in their gardens even if it’s the simplest water bowl. Aside from water’s beautiful reflective qualities, for me, the real power lies in its sound. It’s transformative in any garden but especially in urban environments where we need to mask noise from neighbouring gardens and the hum of the city. The gentle trickling sound of water instantly pulls the focus away from distant sounds and centres you within your garden. A water feature needn’t be anything elaborate; it can be a small trough or container with a basic pump to circulate the water. The bubbling pool will resonate its soothing qualities and draw you in.

Modern Corten steel orange water feature in mondrian inspired garden in London by garden designer Georgia Lindsay — A peaceful place to sit, watching the calming flow of water.

Enticing sounds encourage exploration in the garden

I love to nestle a water feature immersed within the planting, creating some mystery. The sound entices you to explore further to search out the source. Place it a comfortable distance away from the seating area to ensure it’s not drowning out conversations.

Concrete water feature showing astrantia flowers in the foreground — The simplest of water bowls can transform a garden and also benefit wildlife.

Sound encourages contemplation, a space to switch off and unwind

In a world dominated by technology, it’s incredibly grounding to take the time to be present in your garden. The rhythmical, meditative qualities of water enhance your wellbeing. Water will also help to bring wildlife into your garden, which will further enhance your soundscape. Try to ensure there are convenient perching places for birds and butterflies to keep hydrated.

Water rill diagonally intersecting modern grey paving slabs — A water rill adds a dramatic punctuation of reflection and sound.

Sounds in nature as well as through water

There is a good reason why ambient meditation music contains water and bird song to deepen contemplation. You can encourage more birds by planting Hawthorn, Honeysuckle, Rowan and shrub roses to name a few. You will be rewarded with a symphony of sounds to transport you. What better way to enjoy your garden than being surrounded by the fundamental sounds of nature?

Simon Cox

I’m Simon Cox and with my wife Rachael Cox we run Wildings Studio, a creative brand studio in Devon, UK offering branding, website design & brand video.

We create magical brands that your ideal customers rave about; and leave you feeling empowered and inspired. Our approach blends both style and substance, helping you go beyond your wildest expectations.