There’s nothing quite like the sight of water to soothe the soul. But if you’re not lucky enough to live by the sea or on a lake, why not create a tranquil oasis of your own by incorporating a pond into your landscape? Not only does a water feature add a beautiful natural element to your garden, it might also increase the value of your home. Installing a pond is not without its disadvantages (namely, maintenance), but environmental benefits include added moisture for nearby plants—helping to guard against dehydration during the warmer months. We’ve combed the pages of Architectural Digest for properties with ponds, from a serene California retreat to a lush Sri Lankan compound. As you gaze into their quiet depths, be prepared for inspiration to leap from a lily pad. When it comes to playing with water, the possibilities are endless.

A balcony off the loft library enjoys the view north past the pond in this Miller Architects–designed Montana home. Montana-based Linda Iverson designed the landscaping.

The entrance drive of this California retreat —the home of which was designed by architect Mark D. Kirkhart and interior designer Craig Wright—crosses a pond to reach the residence, which is set in a grove of oaks.

Adjacent to the studio in this John Wilson–designed Stowe, Vermont retreat , are a miniature golf course and an upper pond, both of which were designed by Wilson and planted by Loren Darling.

Bluestone coping surrounds the koi pond of this Hollywood, California, mansion designed by architect Oscar Shamamian.

Ellen DeGeneres and Portia De Rossi added a pond to the grounds of their Buff & Hensman–designed Beverly Hills estate , which consists of adjacent properties acquired over time.

Although the design of drag racer Jeg Coughlin Jr.’s Ohio house is contemporary, “it's traditional in the way it fits into the site,” says architect George Acock. “There's a pond on one side, a wooded ravine on the other, and the house is snuggled into the ridge between.” The central tower holds the library; to the left are living spaces, and to the right are two garages, one of which doubles as a basketball court.

In collaboration with architect Bruce Fell-Smith, interior designer George Cooper created a compound for himself in Sri Lanka . Featured is the lily pond, with a statue of a Sri Lankan Kandyan king, the living pavilion and, beyond, the dining pavilion.

A terrace off the guest house of this Allan Greenberg–designed Connecticut estate overlooks a putting green and a pond.