Enhancing the aesthetics of your yard goes beyond mere greenery and hardscaping. The introduction of a water feature can add a touch of tranquillity and elegance that transforms your outdoor space into a serene oasis. In the world of landscaping in Calgary, where the natural environment and urban design intersect, installing a water feature requires careful consideration. In this article, we’ll delve into the three key factors you should contemplate when adding a water feature to your Calgary yard.
1. Integration with Calgary’s Climate
Calgary’s climate is characterized by its distinct seasonal changes, encompassing both harsh winters and warm summers. When selecting and designing a water feature, it’s crucial to consider how it will fare in these conditions and how it can seamlessly integrate into your landscaping.
Types of Water Features Suitable for Calgary
1. Ponds and Waterfalls: A well-designed pond with a cascading waterfall can be a mesmerizing addition to your yard. However, it’s essential to design the water feature with considerations for freezing temperatures. Incorporating a pond de-icer and ensuring proper drainage can help prevent damage caused by ice expansion.
2. Fountains: Fountains provide a captivating focal point and the soothing sound of flowing water. Opt for self-contained fountains that can be easily drained and stored during winter to prevent freezing and potential damage.
3. Reflecting Pools: Reflecting pools can add a touch of elegance to your yard, but they require careful planning to prevent freezing and algae growth. Installing aeration systems and considering anti-freezing agents can help maintain the beauty of the pool throughout the year.
2. Maintenance and Water Conservation
A water feature, while captivating, demands consistent maintenance to retain its beauty and functionality. Additionally, considering Calgary’s commitment to water conservation, it’s crucial to ensure that your water feature is designed with sustainability in mind.
Maintenance-Friendly Design Tips
1. Choose Low-Maintenance Materials: Opt for materials that are easy to clean and maintain. Natural stones, for example, tend to gather less debris and algae than concrete surfaces.
2. Install Filtration Systems: Filtration systems keep the water clean and reduce the need for frequent manual cleaning. UV sterilizers can also help control algae growth.
Water Conservation Considerations
1. Recirculation Systems: Choose water features that incorporate recirculation systems, reducing the need for continuous water supply.
2. Rainwater Harvesting: Consider integrating rainwater harvesting into your water feature’s design. This not only promotes water conservation but also reduces your water bill.
3. Aesthetic Harmony with Landscaping: For a water feature to truly enhance your landscaping in Calgary, it should seamlessly blend with the existing design and natural elements of your yard.
Aesthetic Integration Tips
1. Choose Complementary Materials: Select materials and colours that harmonize with your existing landscaping. Natural stone, for instance, often integrates well with various plant palettes.
2. Positioning: Consider the placement of your water feature. Whether it’s nestled among trees or serves as a centrepiece, its positioning should contribute to the overall flow and balance of your outdoor space.
3. Scale and Proportion: The size of your water feature should correspond to the size of your yard. An overly large feature in a small space can overwhelm, while a small feature in a spacious yard might not have the desired impact.
Make Water Features Work With Tazscapes
Adding a water feature to your yard in Calgary can elevate your outdoor experience by introducing a touch of serenity and beauty. As you contemplate this enhancement to your landscaping, keep in mind the integration with Calgary’s climate, the importance of maintenance and water conservation, and the aesthetic harmony with your existing outdoor elements. By carefully considering these three key factors, you can create a water feature that not only captivates the senses but also harmonizes with the unique blend of nature and design that defines landscaping in Calgary.
Transform your home and increase its value and curb appeal while working with the best landscape company in Calgary with Tazscapes. Our award-winning team of landscape contractors and designers is recognized for creating and delivering stunning landscape designs in Calgary that are beautiful, functional and affordable. We offer various services, including landscape design, residential, commercial and acreage landscaping, hardscaping, such as retaining walls and concrete patios, and softscaping, such as sod and artificial grass installation. Our eye for detail, meticulous planning and unique landscaping methods and eye-catching results is why we’re a two-time Consumer Choice Award Winner. Contact us today at 587-578-0747 or [email protected].