How to Incorporate Water Features (Fountains, Waterfalls) into Your Pool Design
Key Points
- Water features transform ordinary pools into stunning backyard retreats
- Different feature types suit different budgets, spaces, and aesthetic preferences
- Planning water features during initial pool design saves money and ensures proper integration
- Sound, lighting, and placement dramatically affect the overall impact of water features
- Tennessee's climate requires specific considerations for year-round water feature functionality
- Professional design ensures water features enhance rather than overpower your pool
You've decided to build a pool—congratulations! Now comes the fun part: designing a backyard oasis that reflects your style and creates the atmosphere you've been dreaming about. Water features like fountains, waterfalls, and jets can transform a simple rectangular pool into something truly spectacular.
But here's what many homeowners don't realize until they're already deep into the design process: incorporating water features successfully requires more than just picking something that looks cool in a catalog. The most impressive backyard pools share a common trait—their water features feel intentional, integrated, and perfectly suited to the space.
Whether you're drawn to the gentle trickle of a fountain, the dramatic cascade of a waterfall, or the playful splash of deck jets, understanding your options and planning strategically will help you create a pool that exceeds your expectations without exceeding your budget.
Why Water Features Make Such a Difference
Pool water features do more than just look impressive—they fundamentally change how you experience your backyard. The sound of moving water creates a soothing atmosphere that masks neighborhood noise and makes your outdoor space feel like a private retreat. Even in Murfreesboro's suburban neighborhoods, a well-placed waterfall can make you feel miles away from everything.
Water movement also serves practical purposes. Features that create circulation help distribute pool chemicals more evenly and can reduce the workload on your filtration system. Some features provide aeration, which helps maintain water quality and can even make your pool feel more refreshing during hot Tennessee summers.
The visual impact is undeniable too. Water features add dimension and movement to your pool, creating focal points that draw the eye and make the entire space feel more dynamic. During evening hours, properly lit water features become dramatic centerpieces that elevate ordinary gatherings into special occasions.
Popular Water Feature Types and What They Offer
Understanding the different types of pool water features helps you make informed decisions about what fits your space, budget, and lifestyle.
Rock Waterfalls
Natural rock waterfalls are probably what most people picture when they think of pool water features. These features use natural stone or manufactured rock to create cascading water effects that range from gentle streams to dramatic plunges.
The beauty of rock waterfalls lies in their versatility. They can be designed to look like natural formations or crafted into more structured, architectural statements. Many homeowners in the Murfreesboro area choose rock waterfalls because they complement Tennessee's natural landscape and can incorporate native stone that ties the pool design to the surrounding environment.
Rock waterfalls work particularly well for pools with elevation changes in the yard. If your property has a slope, a waterfall can turn that challenge into a stunning design opportunity. The feature becomes a natural transition between different yard levels while creating visual interest from multiple angles.
Consider that rock waterfalls require more structural support than simpler features. The weight of stone means additional construction costs, but the result is a permanent, substantial feature that typically increases property value significantly.
Fountains and Bubblers
Pool fountains and bubblers offer elegance without the footprint of larger features. These features shoot water into the air or create bubbling effects at the water's surface, adding movement and sound without requiring extensive construction.
Deck jets are a popular fountain variation that shoots thin streams of water from the deck into the pool. These create graceful arcs that look especially impressive when lit at night. Kids love running through the streams, and they create beautiful photo opportunities during gatherings.
Bubblers installed in shallow areas like tanning ledges or steps create gentle, playful water movement. They're particularly popular with families who have young children because they add interest to shallow areas where little ones spend time.
The advantage of fountain-style features is their relatively simple installation and lower cost compared to waterfalls. They also require less space, making them ideal for smaller pools or yards where a large waterfall might feel overwhelming.
Sheer Descents and Scuppers
Sheer descents create smooth, glass-like sheets of water that fall into the pool. These features offer a contemporary, architectural look that works beautifully with modern pool designs. The effect is clean and sophisticated, creating a calming wall of water that reflects light beautifully.
Scuppers are similar but typically smaller, often incorporated into raised walls or spa spillovers. They provide the visual drama of falling water without requiring the space or structure of a full waterfall.
Both options work well for homes with contemporary architecture or homeowners who prefer clean lines and minimalist aesthetics. They're also relatively low-maintenance compared to natural rock features and can be incorporated into walls, raised bonds, or spa edges.
Rain Curtains and Wall Features
Rain curtains create sheets of water that fall from overhead structures like pergolas or walls. These features offer dramatic visual effects and create unique spaces where you can actually swim or walk through falling water.
Wall-mounted features attach to retaining walls or pool house walls, creating art-like installations that combine water, lighting, and sometimes fire features. These work particularly well for smaller yards where ground space is limited but vertical space can be utilized.
Designing Water Features That Work for Your Space
Successful pool design with water features requires thinking about your entire outdoor environment, not just the pool itself. Here's how to approach the design process strategically.
Consider Your Pool's Style
Your water features should complement your pool's overall aesthetic. A modern, geometric pool with clean lines looks best with contemporary features like sheer descents or simple fountains. Freeform pools with natural curves pair beautifully with rock waterfalls and naturalistic features.
In Murfreesboro, we see many homeowners drawn to designs that reflect Tennessee's natural beauty. Incorporating local stone, creating features that mimic natural creek beds, or using native plantings around water features helps pools feel like natural extensions of the landscape.
Scale Matters More Than You Think
One of the biggest mistakes in water feature design is choosing features that are either too large or too small for the space. A massive rock waterfall can overwhelm a modest pool, while tiny fountains can look underwhelming in expansive yards.
A good rule of thumb: water features should be proportional to your pool size. For a standard residential pool (around 15 by 30 feet), a waterfall that's 4-6 feet wide and 3-4 feet high typically feels balanced. Larger pools can accommodate more substantial features without feeling crowded.
Don't forget to consider sightlines from different areas. Your water feature should look impressive from your patio, from inside your home through windows or doors, and from within the pool itself. Walking around your yard during the planning phase helps identify the best locations for maximum impact.
Sound Design (Literally)
The sound of your waterfall or fountain dramatically affects how relaxing your pool area feels. Some people love the dramatic rush of a high-volume waterfall, while others prefer gentler trickling sounds.
Here's something most people don't consider until after installation: you can often control water volume through your pump system, allowing you to adjust the sound level. Want a dramatic display during parties but gentler sounds for morning coffee? Variable-speed pumps make this possible.
The distance between the water feature and your seating areas also affects sound levels. Features closer to lounging areas create more ambient noise, which can be wonderful for drowning out neighborhood sounds but might be too loud for conversation-focused spaces.
Lighting Creates Magic
Pool lighting can make or break the impact of water features. During daylight, your features rely on natural beauty and water movement for impact. But after sunset, proper lighting transforms them into showstopping focal points.
LED lighting technology has revolutionized what's possible with pool water feature lighting. Color-changing LEDs let you create different moods—cool blues for relaxation, warm ambers for intimate gatherings, or vibrant colors for parties.
Placement matters significantly. Uplighting behind waterfalls creates dramatic backlighting effects, while lights positioned within water streams create glowing arcs. Many homeowners in the Murfreesboro area choose multiple lighting zones that can be controlled independently, offering flexibility for different occasions.
Technical Considerations for Tennessee Climate
Living in Tennessee means planning for weather variations that affect how your water features function throughout the year.
Winterization and Year-Round Use
Most pool owners in Murfreesboro close their pools for winter, which means your water features need proper winterization to prevent freeze damage. Rock waterfalls with plumbing running through them require complete drainage, while fountains and jets need their lines blown out to remove standing water.
If you're considering a pool heater or enclosure for year-round swimming, discuss how that affects your water feature options. Some features work beautifully in winter conditions, while others are better suited for seasonal use only.
Water Chemistry and Maintenance
Water features increase water movement and evaporation, which can affect your pool's chemistry. More evaporation means you'll add water more frequently, and features that create a lot of splash or spray can change how quickly chlorine dissipates.
Natural rock features require occasional maintenance to prevent algae buildup in crevices and ensure proper water flow. Smoother, contemporary features generally require less upkeep but still need regular inspection of plumbing and nozzles.
Working with experienced pool builders who understand Tennessee's specific challenges ensures your features are designed for long-term reliability, not just immediate visual impact.
Budgeting for Water Features
Pool fountain costs and waterfall expenses vary dramatically based on size, complexity, and materials. Understanding typical cost ranges helps set realistic expectations during the planning phase.
Simple deck jets or basic fountains might add $1,500-$5,000 to your pool project. These features offer significant visual impact for relatively modest investment and can be installed during construction or added later.
Mid-range features like small to medium rock waterfalls, sheer descents, or multiple fountain combinations typically run $5,000-$15,000. These features require more structural work but create substantial visual impact and often include lighting integration.
Large, elaborate water features with extensive rockwork, multiple water streams, grottos, or integrated fire features can range from $15,000-$50,000 or more. While expensive, these features can transform your entire backyard into a resort-style retreat and significantly increase property value.
The smartest financial approach is usually incorporating water features during initial pool construction rather than adding them later. Retrofitting features requires additional excavation, plumbing modifications, and potential damage to existing deck areas, all of which increase costs substantially.
Working with Professional Pool Designers
Designing successful water features requires balancing aesthetics, functionality, and budget—something experienced pool builders do every day. At Majestic Swim, we've helped countless Murfreesboro families create stunning pools that incorporate water features perfectly suited to their spaces and lifestyles.
Professional designers bring critical expertise to the process:
Structural Engineering: We ensure features are properly supported, preventing settling or damage over time.
Hydraulic Planning: Proper pump sizing and plumbing design ensure features work efficiently without excessive energy costs.
Code Compliance: Water features must meet local building codes and safety requirements, something professionals navigate seamlessly.
Long-term Thinking: We design features that will still delight you years from now, not just look good in initial renderings.
Making Your Vision Reality
Incorporating waterfalls into pool design or adding the perfect fountain isn't just about choosing features from a catalog. It's about creating a cohesive outdoor environment where every element works together to create the atmosphere you want.
Start by collecting inspiration—photos of pools you love, images that capture the mood you're aiming for, even pictures of your yard showing the space you're working with. These visual references help designers understand your vision and suggest features that align with your goals.
Be honest about your budget from the beginning. Good designers can create impressive results at various price points, but they need to know your constraints to make appropriate recommendations.
Think about how you'll actually use your pool. If you're hosting frequent gatherings, dramatic features that create conversation pieces might be priorities. If quiet relaxation is your goal, gentler, more subtle features might suit you better.
Consider phasing if your dream design exceeds your current budget. Many features can be added later, and planning for future additions during initial construction makes eventual installation much easier and more affordable.
FAQs About Pool Water Features
When should I decide about water features during the pool building process?
Ideally during initial design consultation. Incorporating features from the start is more cost-effective and allows for better integration than adding them after pool completion.
Do water features increase ongoing maintenance costs?
Slightly, mostly through increased water evaporation and occasional cleaning of rock surfaces or fountain nozzles. Proper design minimizes maintenance requirements.
Can I add water features to an existing pool?
Yes, though it's more expensive than including them during initial construction. Options depend on your pool's current design and surrounding deck space.
How much do water features increase my pool's value?
Well-designed water features typically increase property value, often returning 50-75% of their cost. Dramatic, professionally installed features in desirable areas can return even more.
Do water features require separate pumps?
Not always. Many features run off your main pool circulation system, though larger or multiple features might benefit from dedicated pumps for better control and efficiency.
What water features work best for families with young children?
Bubblers in shallow areas, gentle rock features with gradual water flow, and deck jets positioned away from play areas are all family-friendly choices.
FAQs About Majestic Swim
What areas does Majestic Swim serve?
We serve Murfreesboro and surrounding Middle Tennessee communities, bringing decades of pool building expertise to homeowners throughout the region.
Do you handle both pool construction and water feature installation?
Yes, we provide complete pool design and construction services including all types of water features, from simple fountains to elaborate rock waterfalls and custom installations.
How do I start the pool design process?
Contact us at (615) 691-2500 to schedule a consultation at our Murfreesboro location. We'll discuss your vision, assess your property, and develop a design that brings your dream pool to life.
Can I see examples of pools you've built with water features?
Absolutely. We maintain a portfolio of completed projects and can often arrange tours of pools we've built in the Murfreesboro area so you can see our work firsthand.
What makes Majestic Swim different from other pool builders?
Our combination of design expertise, construction quality, and ongoing customer support ensures your pool exceeds expectations and provides decades of enjoyment.
Do you offer financing options for pool construction?
Yes, we work with several financing partners to make pool ownership accessible. We'll discuss available options during your consultation.
Ready to transform your backyard with the pool you've been dreaming about? Contact Majestic Swim today at
(615) 691-2500 or visit us at 1522 Glenridge Dr, Murfreesboro, TN 37128. Let's create a stunning pool with water features that will make your home the neighborhood destination for years to come.
