Martin and Shirlie Kemp's DIY water feature: Budget-friendly way to create garden serenity
The celebrity couple's garden water feature has become one of this summer's hottest DIY trends.
12026's garden trend: DIY water features
This summer, homemade water features dominated garden decoration trends. Martin and Shirlie Kemp's steel water feature adds a serene atmosphere to gardens. Experts note its popularity stems from both calming effects and eco-friendliness. Solar-powered fountains also provide an ideal environment for bees and other pollinators. The trend combines aesthetics with environmental consciousness, making it appealing to modern gardeners.
2The Kemps' garden inspirations
Martin and Shirlie Kemp regularly share inspiring garden decor ideas on their @maisonnumber9 Instagram. Their vegetable garden's steel fountain was actually created by repurposing a fire pit. This creative idea caught followers' attention and received significant interest from gardening enthusiasts. The couple's pastel flower arrangements and autumn pumpkin arch had previously impressed their fans with innovative garden styling.
3Expert tips for DIY water features
Tom Douglas, Senior Gardening Buyer at Cherry Lane Garden Centres, says any large waterproof container can be transformed into a water feature. 'Determine its position and test for leaks first, as it will become quite heavy when filled,' he adds. Douglas recommends keeping the water surface simple and letting surrounding plants stand out. He notes that adding stones provides safe entry and exit points for insects visiting the water source.
4Advantages of solar-powered fountains
Experts recommend using rainwater and adding movement/sound with solar fountain pumps. A £12.99 solar fountain from Amazon, combined with pebbles and a large planter, can create a high-end looking water feature. Considering traditional water features often cost over £100, this presents an economical garden upgrade option. The solar-powered version also aligns with sustainable gardening practices gaining popularity.
5Rise of biophilic design
Gary Farrell, Director at Nth Degree, observes increasing interest in gardens incorporating natural elements. Water features bring movement and sound, adding wildness to spaces. 'The calming sound of water and stress-reducing benefits of nature time attract people,' Farrell explains. The ability to attract wildlife like birds and dragonflies adds vitality to gardens, creating dynamic ecosystems in residential spaces.
6Material suggestions and costs
Products like AMZtime Solar Fountain (6 nozzles), Nicoman Large Corten Steel Fire Pit (70cm), and B&Q White Pebbles (0.3m², 19kg) make it possible to create water features similar to the Kemps'. Experts confirm large containers like fire pits can be waterproofed for this purpose. This project offers quick yet impactful garden transformations, proving that impressive results don't require professional installations or excessive budgets.
7Psychological benefits of water features
Research shows water sounds significantly reduce stress levels. DIY water features serve as connections to nature, especially in urban environments. Experts emphasize these projects offer therapeutic value beyond decoration. Water elements in gardens provide escapes from daily hustle, creating personal sanctuaries. Their sensory appeal contributes to mental wellbeing, making them more than just aesthetic additions to outdoor spaces.
8Future of DIY water features
As a standout among 2026 garden trends, DIY water features continue growing with sustainability and personalization movements. Experts predict increased use of solar-powered systems and repurposed materials. Pioneered by the Kemps, this trend merges creativity with functionality in garden design. Its accessibility and multiple benefits suggest long-term popularity among gardening enthusiasts and design-conscious homeowners alike.