Solar water fountains are the hottest garden trend of 2026, and this easy DIY hack makes it look even better

Patio water features are one of the hottest garden trends this summer, but I’ve just spotted the best one yet on Instagram, and its creator has revealed all about how to get the look at home.

Water feature trends, particularly DIY ideas, have been a huge garden trend this year on account of the fact that they create calming, wildlife-friendly environments that are beautiful to look at. Not to mention, the popularity of solar water fountains means it’s so easy to create a striking display.

If you’re looking to make your own water feature, I’d implore you to first check out content creator Anna Louisa’s (@anna_louise_at_home) stunning example, complete with a solar fountain and blooms - it’s an elevated take on an already stylish trend.

Everywhere I turn this summer, I’ve spotted DIY water features, whereby creators use a large planter filled with pebbles and water, topped off with a solar fountain (like this Amazon £9.99 one). The DIY hack is incredibly simple, affordable and suitable for small patios, too. Seeing how accessible it makes a bespoke garden water feature, it’s easy to understand why this trend has really taken off.

We’ve even seen other brands try to get in on the hype, including Aldi’s £13 solar fountain, which took the middle aisle by storm and QVC’s stunning tiered terracotta water feature. But the water feature that has impressed me the most has to be content creator and author of The 5 Minute Clean, Anna Lousia.

Anna took two larger planters, using the base layer to plant beautiful blooms and foliage, before filling the top planter with white pebbles, water and, of course, a solar fountain. With wheels on the base to make it easy to move around her patio, the water feature was complete.

Displaying her method in an Instagram reel, it’s easy to get the look, too. Anna filled the base of her larger planter with polystyrene bricks to save on compost and make it lighter. She also added bedding plants for immediate impact. The water aspect is even easier. The solar fountain charges in the sun, releasing a constant spray of water.

‘I love finding simple ideas that can make a space feel better without spending a fortune. This DIY water fountain was really easy to put together, and it’s made such a difference to our garden! It’s now one of my favourite spots to sit and relax,’ Anna told me.

Since posting the reel, Anna’s followers advised adding a copper disc (£7.99, Amazon) to prevent algae building up in the water - it’s also a great tip to keep your bird bath clean, too!

What you need

Will you try making this chic DIY water feature?