“In one particular case, we created a water feature using cast-concrete stones, plus a slide with planting pockets on the front and back. The backside of the feature even had an integrated herb garden for the homeowner,” says Lenz.
Lenz accomplished multiple goals on this particular project, including blocking out the neighbours, providing tranquil ‘white noise’ from the water flowing down the slide, and providing a fun feature that could be used by the homeowner’s grandchildren.
Pool professionals are not always trained in landscaping, but there are a few rules of thumb that can help. First, ‘layer’ the plants. Have at least three layers that are tall, medium, and short to provide visual interest around the water feature. Secondly, be sure to include a variety of leaf colours and textures. Plants such as ornamental grasses, ferns, and palms are good choices. Designers and builders should consult a local nursery to find out what grows best in the region where the project is being installed. Short plants such as herbs can also be a great choice for planned plant ‘pockets’ within the feature. Most importantly, do not choose plants that shed their leaves close to the pool’s edge—customers will not be happy with unnecessary debris in the pool water.
Conclusion
Today, the tranquil sounds that emanate from water features are in high demand by consumers. Water features provide practical solutions for homeowners trying to block out unwanted sights and sounds. This is the year for builders and designers to embrace the many options and landscaping techniques available to them to mask these unwanted noises and/or visual eyesores.
Bruce Riley is the managing director of RicoRock Inc., makers of cast-concrete rock, including component systems for building caves/grottos, waterfalls, and waterslide products for use in pool applications. Riley focuses on developing new products and managing commercial installations. He has built rock-type pools in southern California for more than 25 years and now uses this experience to design standard waterfall kits for the company. He can be reached via e-mail at bruce@ricorock.com.
With almost 50 years of designing and auditing public recreation water facilities, I recall encountering several instances where sprays and fountains were overly noisy such that the sounds
of splashing water promoted the natural instinct to urinate……………….not a desired result in some situations for sure.
J.D. Paton
CEO, Aquatic Consultants Incorporated