The Best 22 DIY Ideas to Create a Decorative Downspout Landscape
Do you remember when we published the highly popular article 20 Easy and Cheap DIY Ways to Enhance The Curb Appeal some time ago? We are always striving to create fresh and useful content to help you improve anything related to your home. One idea we have thought of to greatly enhance your home’s curb appeal is building a downspout landscaping.
Downspouts are necessary elements to guide rainwater from the gutter to the ground, but they can also add aesthetic value if you landscape around them. Creative downspout landscapes are excellent decorations for house exteriors, especially when rainwater passes through the decorative drainage. Take a look at these ideas we have gathered for you, and if you love them, consider building your own downspout landscaping for the next rainy season.
1. Watering Your Raised Garden with Rainwater
Have you ever thought about watering your raised vegetable garden with pure rainwater? It’s a super cool idea that’s both smart and functional! Here’s how it works: your garden bed is raised up and nestled in a wooden container that cleverly conceals a plastic basin where all your veggies grow.
And in the middle of the garden, there’s a special water container filled with gravel. This nifty little device gently drains the rainwater that collects from the downspout, providing your plants with the purest water possible. How awesome is that?!
2. A rainwater barrel can have a decorative feature:
Don’t let that rainwater go to waste. The rainwater is collected in a fantastic rustic barrel to act as a container of free purified rainwater! You can’t even see the extension of the downspout as it is hidden by a flower planter with blooming flowers.
Tutorial: hgtv.com
3. Repurpose watering cans as downspouts for gutters:
It’s a DIY project that involves using gutters and buckets to create a beautiful cascading wall waterfall. The best part is that the rainwater from the gutters flows into a large galvanized tub, where you can grow pond plants.
You may also like: 26 DIY Water Features Will Bring Tranquility and Relaxation to Any Home
4. Create a dry creek bed drainage canal for downspouts:
Check out this awesome idea for channeling rainwater away from downspouts and preventing garden flooding. All you need to do is create a dry creek bed using rocks and pavers, arranging them to form a river-like structure.
Build walls at the sides of the bed to direct the flow of rainwater and protect your garden beds or planters from excess water and soil erosion. With this setup, you can enjoy a beautiful, thriving garden all year round!
Tutorial: growingthehomegarden.com Image via: prairiebreak.blogspot.com
5. An underground water catch basin can prevent problems with downspout runoff:
If you’re looking for a solution to prevent the problem of downspout runoff, an underground water catch basin might just be the answer you need. This DIY project is a great way to beautify your landscape while also being functional.
The catch basin works by collecting rainwater that would normally flow out of your downspout and redirecting it underground to a designated area, such as a garden or lawn. This not only helps to prevent erosion and flooding but also conserves water. With a little bit of effort, you can create a decorative and eco-friendly addition to your outdoor space.
You may also like: 35 Impressive Backyard Ponds and Water Gardens
6. Build a rain-harvesting vertical garden:
A rain harvesting vertical garden is a clever way to save water and grow plants in small spaces.
By collecting rainwater and using it to water plants grown vertically on a wall, you can create a beautiful and sustainable garden that conserves water and adds greenery to your home.
Image via: designindaba.com
7. Decorative splash blocks can be added to downspouts:
Transform your plain downspout extension into a beautiful piece of garden art inspired by nature with this artistic idea. By using cement leaves stacked in a pile, the rainwater can flow down and create a natural-looking stream that’s both functional and fascinating to watch.
Not only does it add a unique touch to your garden, but it also shows how simple elements of nature can be used to create something beautiful. So, why not give it a try and turn your downspout extension into a piece of garden art that will amaze your visitors?
8. Rainwater can be directed into a pool using a rainslide:
Want to make the most of rainy days and keep your pond or water garden filled up? You can use a stainless steel rainslide to direct rainwater straight to your pond!
It’s an easy and eco-friendly way to save water and keep your pool clean. Stainless steel is super strong and won’t rust, so you don’t have to worry about replacing it anytime soon.
9. Construct a downspout rain garden using stacked rocks:
This is a fantastic DIY project for your downspout drainage system! You can use flat stones to create a miniature mountain that channels rainwater from the downspout.
In the gaps between river rocks, you can plant water-resistant plants. Adding small mushroom and spider figurines will make the waterfall look even more natural.
10. Use a “Bucket Brigade” downspout planter to collect rainwater:
A downspout is a necessary feature of a house, but it’s usually not something people think about in terms of aesthetics. However, some homeowners have found ways to make it part of their outdoor design. Have you heard of decorative downspouts?
They’re a great way to add some personality and flair to your home’s exterior. Imagine a square gutter pipe with fun twists and turns that form shelves for flower pots. The best part is that the plants can be easily watered by the rainwater that flows down the downspout. With decorative downspouts, even functional elements of a house can become beautiful and eye-catching features.
Image via: emswcd.org
11. A rock garden feature can utilize water from a downspout:
Have you thought about using the water from your downspout to create a rock garden feature? Instead of letting the water go to waste, you can direct it into a reservoir below the rocks.
This creates a beautiful water feature that conserves water and adds a soothing sound to your outdoor space. It’s an eco-friendly way to make the most of the rainwater and enhance your garden at the same time!
Image via: tanglycottage.wordpress.com
12. Consider using a rain chain instead of a traditional downspout:
Rain chains are made of decorative chains or cups that guide the water down to the ground. They not only do the job but also look pretty stylish, adding some charm to your home’s exterior.
And the sound of the water trickling down the chain is so peaceful! So next time you’re thinking about upgrading your home’s drainage system, why not consider a rain chain?
Enhancing your garden with the soothing sound of water cascading from cup to cup adds a personal touch and tranquility that a regular downspout simply can’t match. Rain chains elegantly guide water away from your home’s foundation, preventing muddy puddles that can drown out your garden plants. They not only serve a practical purpose but also double as a charming water feature.
Originating in Japan centuries ago, rain chains were designed to gracefully direct roof water runoff while enhancing the architectural beauty of temples and homes.
Create a Rain Chain Garden
Redirecting roof water is just the beginning.
To ensure your landscaping thrives with the extra moisture, consider incorporating a distinctive rain chain into your garden setup for added elegance.
Step 1: Establish a Collection Area
Position pavers or flagstones angled away from your home’s foundation.
Place a basin under the rain chain on top of the pavers, ensuring it slopes away from the house toward your yard.
Step 2: Install the Rain Chain
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to securely install the rain chain.
Anchor the chain to the basin as recommended to prevent it from swinging in the wind.
Step 3: Planting Around the Rain Chain
Surround the basin with well-draining soil and plants that tolerate occasional flooding.
Choose annuals for a seasonal burst of color or opt for native grasses and shrubs if you prefer perennials that thrive in local wetland conditions.
13. Use a giant galvanized stock tank as a rain barrel:
Did you know that a giant galvanized stock tank can be used as a rain barrel? It’s a fantastic way to save on your water bill and help the environment.
By placing it under your downspout, you can collect rainwater to use for watering your plants, garden, or other household needs. Not only is it a practical solution, but it also adds a rustic and charming touch to your outdoor space.
Image via: apartmenttherapy.com
14. A Black Pebble Dry Creek With Rocks
Make your garden pop with a downspout garden! Use black and brown river rocks to create a lane between garden beds. Not only does it look great, but it also prevents garden flooding.
15. A Long Stream Downspout Landscaping
Keep your garden safe from heavy rain with this downspout idea. It also enhances the look and functionality of your rock garden by directing water flow towards the garage lane.
16. Downspout Planter
Looking for a creative way to spruce up your garden? Consider a downspout planter! This unique idea combines the functionality of a downspout with the beauty of a garden planter. Simply attach the planter to your downspout and watch your plants thrive.
Image via: mechanicsburgborough.org & dubcitybeta.wordpress.com & phillywatersheds.org
17. Rainwater can flow over the gutter downspout and down a rain chain:
17. A living rainwater barrel can come with beautiful planter boxes:
Image via: artandlindaswildflowers.com
18 Pebble Mosaic Path
Design a pebble mosaic beneath your downspout to channel water while adding artistic flair.
The smooth stones absorb moisture and prevent erosion, making it both practical and visually appealing.
19. Watering Can Waterfall A Whimsical Touch for Your Garden
Give old metal watering cans a second life by transforming them into a beautiful cascading waterfall.
Arrange them at different heights, allowing water to trickle down from one to the next, creating a soft and soothing sound.
The gentle movement of water not only adds a peaceful vibe but also brings a touch of rustic charm to your outdoor space.
Whether placed among flowers, on a patio, or beside a garden bench, this unique feature makes your backyard feel like a magical countryside retreat.
20. Stormwater Planter: A Beautiful Way to Manage Rainwater
Why let rainwater go to waste when it can nourish your plants and enhance your yard’s beauty at the same time?
A large planter placed beneath your downspout collects water naturally, keeping your plants hydrated while reducing runoff.
Fill it with vibrant flowers, lush greenery, or even herbs to create a stunning and eco-friendly display.
This practical yet decorative addition helps prevent soil erosion and promotes sustainability, all while adding a refreshing splash of color to your outdoor space.
It’s a simple way to work with nature and make rainy days more rewarding.
21. Rain Chain of Cascading Dishes A Mini Waterfall for Your Garden
Turn an ordinary downspout into a mesmerizing rain feature with a series of stacked decorative dishes.
As rainwater flows from one dish to the next, it creates a gentle, cascading effect that looks like a miniature waterfall.
The soft trickling sound brings a sense of calm, while the artistic design adds a unique focal point to your garden.
Whether you choose colorful ceramic bowls, sleek metal plates, or vintage glassware, this easy DIY project blends function with beauty, making every rainy day feel like a special event in your outdoor oasis.
22. Sculptural Downspout Turn Rainwater into Art
Transform your downspout into a striking work of art by adding a sculptural element that interacts with the flowing rain.
Whether it’s a set of metal fish, cascading leaves, or abstract geometric shapes, the water brings the design to life, turning a simple necessity into a stunning outdoor feature.
Instead of seeing rain as an inconvenience, this creative installation makes wet weather something to admire. Image via: harvesting rainwater
