Basic Components
A water pump: The size of the water pump is determined by the proposed feature. Solar-powered pumps are available but may not pump enough water for your purposes. Mains-powered pumps should be fitted by a qualified electrician unless a low-voltage type is used and protected by a residual current device.

A sump: A sump is used to collect and hold all the water in the system. The collecting area to collect the splashing water should be as wide as the outlet is high.

A pipe: You will need to run a pipe from the pump to an outlet nozzle.

Position
A sunny position will bring out colours on wet stones and pebbles.
Try to locate your feature reasonably close to an electricity outlet.

Sample designs
Sink feature: An old enamelled sink can be very effective as a water feature. The pump sits inside the sink with the outlet pipe emerging through the plug hole (sealed to prevent leaks). The outlet could be the tap, or a plaque on an adjacent wall. Water then cascades into the sink.

Large pots: A similar arrangement could be constructed inside a large wide-brimmed pot with the outlet in the centre, creating a fountain or bubble effect.