Granite Water Features

Tiered Designs

• A tiered granite water feature will typically include two or more progressively sized pieces of marble stacked or nestled one atop the other. The pieces may be round or angular, flat or bowl-shaped. Water typically cascades from the center of the topmost granite piece down and over each progressively larger piece. This type of cascading granite water feature is much like a traditional fountain and can be installed in a pond or pebbled pool. According to Oak-Barrel.com, "A submersible pump is required to drive the water to the top of the feature..." so that it will cascade downward. A pump may be included with the water feature, but may need to be purchased separately. Adding lighting to the feature, either via a waterproof light within the structure or direct or indirect lamps to project illumination, can heighten the drama and enhance the inherent contrast of this landscaping element.

Solid Vertical Designs

• Granite water features are also available in a variety of solid vertical designs. You can find vertical slab designs in which a smooth sheet of water will cascade quietly over the rock, offering a brilliant, glassy effect. Other products feature curved or twisted slab designs--with smooth or ridged surfaces. Water flowing over the curves delivers an irresistibly sensual feel. Features that boast a solid rectangular block, cube, or irregular monolith can add a greater sense of solidity and permanence to your pond or garden. Some vertical designs are framed by separate granite pieces in contrasting shapes or textures. Still others are set off by other materials, such as stainless steel, that add modernity and sophistication to the look. Again, these fixtures will do well set into a pebbled pool or pond. The water pumped through the element recirculates time and again.

Multiple-Piece Designs

• Your granite water feature can also be composed of three or more separate pieces of stone grouped together in a harmonious way. The separate elements may be balls, columns, vertical slabs, or other designs. Water is pumped separately through each individual element. It is the way the pieces are grouped that creates the appeal. Separating the stone elements of the water feature increases your creative options in terms of lighting the design. You can install lights at the top of each element, or set them at intervals between the elements. Alternatively, you can project a light or set of lights in various colors onto the grouping to breathtaking effect.