Nothing sounds more soothing than the sound of water music. An outdoor water fountain adds value to your backyard not just because of the sound. Water fountains are also attractive features on their own, both in design as well as in the water catching the rays of sun. Make an outdoor water fountain the centerpiece of a soothing spot in your outdoor space.

Patio Retreat

The patio is often the hub of your outdoor living. Yet perhaps you don't want it to feel so much like Grand Central Station. Instead, create a retreat with comfortable furniture placed in a corner of your patio. Cover it with a pergola, and train flowers such as honeysuckle or roses for shade as well as privacy in your niche.

It's important to create a feeling of isolation in your patio retreat. To shield the space from noise, select a fountain with pleasing water music. If you have room, consider nestling the fountain in a container garden. Alternatively, have a wall fountain mounted near your retreat.

Zen Garden

One of the most soothing uses for an outdoor water fountain is at the center of a Zen garden. When planning your garden, start with a symmetrical layout. Create your borders with rocks. The Landscaping Network suggests surrounding the rocks with raked gravel. Place plants such as ferns, azalea and hosta in your garden.

Water fountains are an essential aspect of Zen gardens, not only because of the soothing sound they supply, but also because they represent spiritual cleansing. Consider choosing a natural stone fountain with a bamboo spout to keep with your Asian theme.

Garden Niche

If you fancy a more fecund garden, create a niche in a shaded corner. Locate your getaway near a tree or tall shrub such as a butterfly bush. Place a cozy bench under in the shade, and add an accent table for your lounging essentials. Surround the bench with shade-loving plants such as bleeding heart, Jerusalem sage and white trillium.

When considering the location for the fountain, think about where it can best mask street or house noise. Likewise, the placement should be where it can be seen not only from your niche but also from the patio or your home. It could be the best location for your garden fountain is in a central location, such as at the intersection of paths. Alternatively, the fountain may be the centerpiece of a nearby mini garden that provides viewing pleasure from your cozy niche.

Let the calming sounds of an outdoor water fountain create a retreat in your backyard.